This article details the requirements to obtain this visa, the benefits it entails, the occupations that are most requested, and the complete process to apply for it. Below is provided a complete guide for those planning to move to this alternative in 2025whether for professional reasons or personal growth.
Immigrate to Australia: what is a qualified independent visa and what benefits does it bring?
The qualified independent visa (subclass 189) is a type of permanent residence permit that allows skilled workers live and work in Australia without the need for employer or government sponsorship of some specific state. This visa is ideal for those who possess skills in occupations that are included in Australia’s “medium and long-term strategic skills list” (MLTSSL).
One of the main advantages of this alternative is the independence it offerssince the beneficiaries can make a decision without restrictions. At the same time, it allows you to bring immediate family members with you, providing a unique opportunity for those looking to move with their family.
In addition to permanent residence, those who obtain this visa can access public health services through Medicare, enjoy public education, and have the right to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting certain requirements, such as continuous residence for several years. .
Qualified independent visa: who can have them
To be eligible for the qualified independent visathe interested party must comply with a series of requirements established by the Australian government. First, the applicant’s occupation must appear on the “list of medium and long term skills”which includes areas such as engineering, information technology, health and education, among others.
Professionals must also pass a skills assessment carried out by the corresponding authority in your work area. This process determines whether qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards.
Another essential aspect is the score obtained in the points testa system based on factors such as age, educational level, work experience and English proficiency. To qualify, the applicant must obtain at least 65 points in this system. In addition, applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time of application and demonstrate proficiency in English through tests such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or OET.
Step by step: how to apply for a visa for skilled self-employed workers in Australia
The process to apply for the qualified independent visa begins with verification that the applicant’s occupation be on Australia’s strategic skills list. Only jobs on this list are eligible for the visa.
Next, you must obtain a skills assessment from relevant authoritywhich verifies qualifications and experience against Australian regulations. With the positive result in hand, the next step is register an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system, where skills and work experience are detailed. This will allow the Australian government to evaluate the application and, based on the score obtained, the person may be invited to apply for the visa.
Once the invitation is received, the next step is complete the online applicationproviding all necessary documents such as proof of identity, educational credentials, and employment history. After submitting the application, you must undergo a medical examination and meet the character requirements set by Australian authorities.
Finally, the resolution of the request is expected. If approved by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, the visa will be granted and the applicant will be allowed to move and start working in Australia.
Source: Ambito
