Independent skilled migration, assessed on your circumstances

The 189 points-tested stream is a permanent visa pathway for eligible skilled workers invited to apply through SkillSelect. It does not require employer or state nomination. Assess the actual occupation and invitation requirements rather than assuming it is interchangeable with a 190 or 491 visa.

This page focuses on the points-tested stream. Other streams have separate criteria and require their own assessment.

Understand what each stage means

An expression of interest records information for consideration. An invitation allows an eligible person to proceed to an application within the applicable period. Neither is a visa grant. A positive skills assessment does not establish every other requirement.

We help organise these stages so documents, dates and claims are checked before you rely on them. Age, English evidence, occupation, assessment validity, points and family circumstances need consideration.

Check points against the underlying records

Employment claims deserve careful attention. Record the employer, dates, hours, duties and available evidence for each period. Note concurrent jobs, unpaid leave and changes in duties. Qualifications and partner circumstances need examination against the relevant points rules.

The published minimum threshold does not guarantee an invitation. A calculator result is an estimate, not a forecast. We retain that distinction when discussing next steps and do not promise a future invitation score or date.

Prepare an evidence register

Bring your passport, visa history, skills assessment, English results, qualifications and employment documents. Include an existing EOI, invitation and government correspondence. A register should identify the document, supported claim, relevant date and question requiring advice.

This can reveal inconsistent job dates, an expiring test result or a qualification recorded differently across documents. Resolving those issues is more useful than repeatedly changing a points estimate without checking its basis.

How we assist with the 189 pathway

The agreed scope may include an initial assessment, occupation and evidence enquiries, points review, EOI preparation and assistance with an invited application. We explain what remains uncertain and when another pathway needs separate investigation.

Use the existing TILSAVV skilled visa points calculator for an initial estimate, then discuss the supporting evidence and your circumstances. A current assessment should guide planning before major employment, study or travel commitments.

Common questions