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Subclass 189: Skilled Independent

This is a permanent residence visa and has 2 main streams - each with different eligibility criteria:

● 189 Points-Tested Stream
● 189 Hong Kong Stream

189: Hong Kong Stream

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Hong Kong flag with a red background and a white stylized five-petal orchid flower in the center, each petal containing a small star.
Flowchart detailing pathway for Hong Kong stream applicants to Australian PR for Hong Kong and BNO passport holders, including requirements for subclass 500 student visa, subclass 485 temporary graduate, PR eligibility, and Australian citizenship.

This permanent residence visa is only for Hong Kong and HK (BNO) passport holders who have demonstrated commitment and contribution to Australia and lived and worked here.

Eligibility

• No minimum age
• No skills assessment
• No points system
• No Competent English requirement (but must prove Functional English)
• Must hold any of the following visas granted on or after 1 Jul 2020:

a) subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa granted from 1 Jul 2020 onwards ; OR

b) subclass 482 or 457 work visas
• Must have lived in Australia as settled resident for at least the previous 4 years prior to permanent residence application
• Meet the health and character requirements
• All secondary applicants aged 18 and above must prove functional English

189-Points tested stream

A permanent residence visa open to skilled workers, who have been selected from the Skillselect system pool of candidates and invited to apply.

To be considered for this visa you must have lodged your Expression of Interest (EoI) in SkillSelect

Eligibility

  • Be under the age of 45 years old when you are invited to lodge

  • Have a minimum score of 65 points on the Skillselect system (subject to benchmarks to
    your type of occupation)

  • Have an occupation on only the MLTSSL list

  • Achieve a minimum of Competent English level

  • Have a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation

  • Meet the health and character requirements

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