Am I eligible for the Australian subclass 189 skilled visa, and what must I meet?
06 Nov 2026 · Answered by Kavya M P · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Subclass 189 requirements typically include being under 45, submitting an Expression of Interest with an English score such as IELTS 6 or higher, a listed occupation, a positive skills assessment, character checks and an invitation to apply. Rules change, so verify them on the official Home Affairs page.
Subclass 189 applicants typically need to meet several requirements, from age and English to a listed occupation. Exact criteria change, so treat the list below as a guide and confirm it officially.
Typical Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | What it typically involves |
|---|---|
| Age | Usually lower than 45 |
| English | An IELTS score of 6 or higher is mentioned when submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) |
| Character | You should meet character-related requirements |
| Occupation | Your occupation should be on the subclass 189 list |
| Skills assessment | A positive skills assessment, with points testing that typically needs 65 pass marks |
| Invitation | You should be invited to apply after submitting the EOI |
| Health | Medical conditions needing ongoing community or government support should be disclosed |
Documents Often Needed
- Passport with photograph and application form
- Two coloured passport-size photographs
- Skills assessment report and PTE or IELTS score report
- Educational qualification and employment reference documents
- Character and health documents
- Details of your partner's skills, where relevant
My Advice
Do not book tests or assessments until you confirm your occupation is on the current list. Check the Australian Department of Home Affairs page for the latest rules before you start.
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