Subclass 189 visa document checklist (Skilled Independent)

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent, points-tested visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. This checklist is a starting point as at November 2026; confirm each item on the Home Affairs subclass 189 page before lodging.

How the process works

The applicant first lodges an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect, with no documents uploaded. Documents are needed once they are invited to apply, and every points claim in the Expression of Interest must be supported by evidence at that stage.

Key numbers (as at November 2026)

• Points test pass mark: 65 points. Meeting the pass mark does not guarantee an invitation. See Expression of Interest.

Work out your score with our points calculator.

• Age: under 45 when invited to apply.
• English: at least Competent English. The accepted tests and scores changed on 7 August 2025; see Competent English.

Documents

• Identity: passport bio page, birth certificate and national identity card; evidence of any change of name

• Invitation: the SkillSelect invitation to apply

• Skills assessment: a suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation

• English: the English test result claimed for points

• Work experience: employment references confirming duties, dates and hours, with payslips or tax records, for every year claimed for points

• Qualifications: degree certificates and academic transcripts claimed for points

• Other points claims: evidence of Australian study, regional study, credentialled community language, Professional Year or partner skills, if claimed

• Partner: relationship evidence, and the partner's skills assessment and English result if claimed for points

• Character: Police certificates from each country where the applicant has spent a total of 12 months or more in the last 10 years since turning 16, including an Australian Federal Police check where it applies

• Health: Health examinations, when Home Affairs asks for them

Collect it with Immiluma

Immiluma includes a sample subclass 189 template with this checklist and a skilled questionnaire covering education, employment, English and skills assessment. Send it to the client's portal and review each document beside its requirement. See all visa checklists.