For many skilled professionals worldwide, the dream of calling Australia home is deeply intertwined with obtaining Permanent Residency (PR). Among the various pathways, the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) stands out as a highly sought-after option, offering skilled individuals the chance to live and work anywhere in Australia without the need for state/territory nomination or employer sponsorship.
However, success with the 189 visa demands meticulous preparation, a keen understanding of the points-tested system, and strategic planning. This is precisely where the expertise of a trusted PR visa agent like Danfe Consulting in Melbourne becomes invaluable.
What is the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)?
The 189 visa is a permanent visa for skilled workers who have occupations in demand in Australia and can meet the strict eligibility criteria, including a points test. Unlike other skilled visas, the 189 visa does not require sponsorship from an Australian employer or nomination by a state or territory government. This grants immense flexibility and freedom to its holders.
Upon grant, the Subclass 189 visa allows you and any included family members to:
- Live and Work Permanently: Settle anywhere in Australia, with full work rights in any occupation.
- Study in Australia: Access Australian education institutions, often at domestic student rates.
- Access Medicare: Benefit from Australia's public healthcare scheme.
- Sponsor Relatives: Sponsor eligible family members for Australian visas.
- Travel Freely: Travel to and from Australia for five years (with the option to apply for a Resident Return Visa after this period).
- Pathway to Citizenship: Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible (typically after 4 years of residency, including time on certain temporary visas).
Who is Eligible? Key Requirements for the 189 Visa
The 189 visa is highly competitive and operates on an invitation-only basis through the SkillSelect system. To be considered, you must meet several core requirements:
- Age: You must be under 45 years of age when you receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
- English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate at least "Competent English" (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in each band, PTE Academic 50 in each section, or equivalent). Higher scores earn more points.
- Eligible Skilled Occupation: Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which identifies occupations in persistent demand across Australia.
- Skills Assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation from the relevant Australian assessing authority. This assessment verifies that your skills and qualifications meet Australian standards.
- Points Test: You must score a minimum of 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs' points test. However, due to high demand, invitations are often issued to applicants with significantly higher scores.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): You must submit an EOI through SkillSelect, outlining your claims for points based on your age, English ability, work experience, qualifications, and other factors.
- Health and Character: You and all accompanying family members must meet Australia's strict health and character requirements.
Understanding the Points Test (Key Factors)
The points test is central to the 189 visa. Points are awarded based on various attributes, including:
- Age: Maximum points for ages 25-32.
- English Language Ability: Higher points for Proficient (IELTS 7.0/PTE 65) or Superior (IELTS 8.0/PTE 79) English.
- Skilled Employment: Points for both overseas and Australian skilled work experience (maximum 20 points for 8+ years).
- Qualifications: Points for Doctorate, Bachelor's, Diploma, or Trade qualifications.
- Australian Study Requirement: Points for completing at least one Australian degree, diploma, or trade qualification.
- Study in Regional Australia: Additional points for meeting the Australian study requirement while living and studying in a designated regional area.
- Professional Year: Points for completing a recognised Professional Year program in Australia (for certain IT, Engineering, and Accounting occupations).
- NAATI Credentialed Community Language: Points for achieving a recognised level in a community language.
- Partner Skills: Points if your partner also meets age, English, and skills assessment criteria, or if you are single/your partner is an Australian citizen/PR.
The Invitation Process: SkillSelect Rounds
The Department of Home Affairs periodically conducts invitation rounds through SkillSelect. Only those who receive an invitation can lodge a formal visa application. The minimum points score required for an invitation can fluctuate significantly depending on the number of available places, the volume of EOIs, and demand for specific occupations. In recent invitation rounds (e.g., November 2024), minimum points varied widely, with some high-demand occupations requiring 90+ points, while others saw invitations at 65-70 points, particularly in trades or certain healthcare roles.
Why Choose Danfe Consulting for Your 189 Visa?
The Skilled Independent Visa (189) is an aspirational goal, but its competitive nature means that every detail of your application must be perfect. This is where Danfe Consulting distinguishes itself as a premier PR Visa Agent in Melbourne, offering a blend of expertise, trustworthiness, and tailored support that is crucial for success.
MARA Registered & Highly Experienced:
Danfe Consulting's team comprises MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority) registered migration agents. This credential ensures they adhere to the highest ethical standards and are continuously updated on the latest immigration laws and policies.
With over a decade of experience and 1,000+ successful visa outcomes, our track record speaks volumes about their capability in handling complex PR applications like the 189 visa.
Mastery of the Points Test & EOI Strategy:
The 189 visa's points test is intricate, and maximising your score is paramount. Danfe Consulting excels at meticulous points calculation and strategic advice on how to boost your score where possible (e.g., advising on English test improvements, Professional Year programs, or skills assessments).
We guide you through preparing and lodging a robust Expression of Interest (EOI) that accurately reflects your eligibility and enhances your chances of receiving an invitation in competitive rounds.
Comprehensive, End-to-End Service:
Danfe Consulting provides holistic support, covering every stage of your 189 visa journey:
- Initial Eligibility Assessment: A thorough evaluation of your profile against 189 visa requirements.
- Skills Assessment Guidance: Expert advice on selecting the correct assessing authority and preparing documentation for a positive skills assessment.
- Document Preparation & Review: Meticulous checking of all supporting documents to ensure compliance and completeness.
- Visa Application Lodgement: Professional lodgement of your visa application after receiving an invitation.
- Ongoing Communication: Keeping you informed about processing times, requests for more information, and any policy updates.
Trusted for PR Pathways & Culturally Inclusive Support:
- Danfe Consulting is widely regarded as a trusted Nepali PR Visa Agent, particularly within Melbourne's vibrant Nepali community and other international backgrounds. They offer culturally sensitive support, with a team fluent in English, Nepali, and Hindi, ensuring clear communication and understanding of your unique circumstances.
- Our focus is on long-term success, not just visa approval. They specialise in "student-to-PR planning," understanding how to leverage your qualifications and experiences in Australia for permanent residency.
Personalized Strategy for Your Success:
- Understanding that each applicant's situation is unique, Danfe Consulting offers personalized consultations. They take the time to listen to your aspirations, assess your profile, and develop a tailored strategy to present your strongest possible application for the 189 visa.
Your Permanent Future Awaits
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a significant step towards making Australia your permanent home. While the journey can be challenging, having a knowledgeable and dedicated migration partner is a game-changer.
By choosing Danfe Consulting, you're not just getting a visa agent; you're gaining a strategic advisor committed to navigating you through every complexity with integrity and expertise. Take control of your Australian dream – contact Danfe Consulting in Melbourne today for a consultation.
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Frequently Asked Question
Addressing your top concerns about Education, Visa & Migration
What services does Danfe Consulting offer in Melbourne and Sydney?
Danfe provides education counselling, student visa support, migration services, PR guidance, college transfers, GTE/SOP preparation, OSHC, and skills assessments.
Why is Danfe Consulting considered the best migration agent in Melbourne?
We are MARA-registered, community-trusted, and have helped over 10,000 students and migrants achieve visa and PR success.
How can Danfe Consulting help international students in Australia?
We assist with admissions, student visa applications, visa extensions, course changes, and PR pathway planning.
Do I need a registered migration agent to apply for a visa in Australia?
While not compulsory, using a registered agent like Danfe ensures your application is accurate, compliant, and has a higher success rate.
Is Danfe Consulting registered with MARA?
Yes, our migration agents are MARA-registered and fully compliant.
Can Danfe assist with GTE and SOP writing?
Yes, we craft genuine, high-quality statements aligned with DHA guidelines.
What are the requirements for a student visa in Australia?
You need a valid CoE, financials, English proficiency, OSHC, and GTE documentation.
How do I change my course or education provider with Danfe’s help?
We assess your eligibility and guide you through the new enrolment and visa update process.
How can Danfe assist with the points test for PR?
We calculate your points and help boost them with experience, study, NAATI, and partner skills.
What is a skills assessment and who needs it?
It’s an evaluation by an assessing authority confirming your qualification and experience match your occupation.
Which occupations are in demand for skilled migration in 2025?
IT, engineering, nursing, trades, social work, early childhood education, and community services.
How do I apply for a 190 visa with state nomination?
We guide you through occupation selection, ROI/EOI submission, and application with the sponsoring state.
Can I apply for the 491 visa while living in a metropolitan area?
Generally no, unless you’ve studied or worked in a designated regional area or meet specific state criteria.
Does Danfe help with Expression of Interest (EOI) submissions?
Yes, we prepare and lodge EOIs and monitor invitations for skilled visas.
Who pays for the SAF levy in a 482 sponsorship?
The employer must pay the SAF levy by law.
What is the easiest way to get PR in Australia?
Study in-demand courses, gain skilled experience, and apply through 189, 190, or 491 pathways.
Which PR pathway is best for international students?
It depends on your background. Most use 485 → skills assessment → 190/491 nomination → PR.
Can I apply for PR after 2 years of study in Australia?
Not directly. You need work experience, skills assessment, and to meet visa points.
Does Danfe help with state nomination applications?
Yes, we prepare and lodge all required documents and guide your ROI and EOI process.
What makes Danfe Consulting different from other migration agencies?
We provide culturally inclusive support with a focus on long-term success, not just visa approvals.
Can Danfe help me transition from a student visa to PR?
Yes, we specialize in student-to-PR planning, including skill assessment, EOI, and state nomination.
How can Danfe Consulting help international students in Australia?
We assist with admissions, student visa applications, visa extensions, course changes, and PR pathway planning.
Does Danfe offer online consultations for interstate and offshore clients?
Absolutely! We offer virtual consultations for clients across Australia and overseas.
What languages does the Danfe Consulting team speak?
Our team can communicate in English, Nepali, Hindi, Tagalog, and more.
How can Danfe help with my student visa application?
We guide you through course selection, GTE writing, document prep, and visa lodgement.
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (485) and who is eligible?
It allows recent graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily after completing a CRICOS course.
Can Danfe help me apply for the 485 visa after graduation?
Yes, we assist with application preparation, skills assessment, and future PR planning.
What documents are needed for the 485 visa application?
Passport, transcript, IELTS/PTE, AFP clearance, health check, insurance, and skills assessment if applicable.
What are the differences between the 189, 190, and 491 visas?
189 is independent, 190 is state-nominated PR, and 491 is regional (5-year visa with PR pathway).
What is a 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa and who can apply?
It allows skilled workers to work for an approved sponsor in Australia. Requires job offer and relevant skills.
Can Danfe help find employers willing to sponsor 482 or 186 visas?
We assist with preparing documents and guidance, though job search is the applicant’s responsibility.
What are the costs involved in applying for a 482 visa?
Employer pays sponsorship/nomination fees and SAF levy; applicant pays visa fee and optional agent fee.
How do I transition from 482 to PR through a 186 visa?
After 2+ years with the employer, you may apply for a 186 TRT stream PR with skills, English, and age criteria.
What is the PR points calculator and how is it used?
It determines your eligibility for skilled visas based on age, English, education, experience, and more.
What is the PR points calculator and how is it used?
It determines your eligibility for skilled visas based on age, English, education, experience, and more.
How can I increase my chances of getting PR in 2025?
Improve English scores, gain work experience, study in-demand courses, and lodge early.
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