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🇮🇳 India→🇦🇺 Australia|Work Visa

Your Best Path: Skilled Independent Visa (189)

✓ Timeline: 8–12 months
✓ Cost: AUD $4,640
✓ Difficulty: High
Get My Full RoadmapLast updated: March 2026
🚀

Start Here — Your Next Steps

1
Check skills on SOL (Skilled Occupation List)
Your occupation must be on the MLTSSL
1 day
2
Get skills assessment
ACS (IT), Engineers Australia, VETASSESS, etc.
6–12 weeks
3
Take PTE Academic or IELTS
Target: PTE 79+ or IELTS 8.0+ for max points
2–4 weeks
4
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Via SkillSelect online system
1–2 hours
🔴
High Points Required Subclass 189 invitations currently require 90–95 points for most occupations. Competition is very high — maximize every category.
🟡
Processing Times Vary DHA processing for 189 visas currently ranges from 6–12 months. Lodge a complete application to avoid delays.

◆ Why Skilled Independent Visa (189) is your best path

✓No employer sponsor required
✓Permanent residence on arrival
✓Points-tested — rewards education and experience
✓Access to Medicare and social benefits

Visa Options — Ranked by Eligibility

We evaluated 3 visa pathways based on your profile

88%FIT
Skilled Independent (189)
Fit Score: 88% · Permanent Residence · 8–12 months · AUD $4,640
BEST MATCH▾

Points-tested visa — no sponsor needed. Must score enough points and receive invitation via SkillSelect.

Advantages
✓ Permanent residence
✓ No employer sponsor
✓ Live and work anywhere in Australia
Challenges
! 90–95 points typically needed
! AUD $4,640 application fee
! Skills assessment required
82%FIT
Skilled Nominated (190)
Fit Score: 82% · Permanent Residence · 8–14 months · AUD $4,640
STATE SPONSOR▾
70%FIT
Employer Sponsored (482)
Fit Score: 70% · Temporary (2–4 years) → PR via 186 · 3–6 months · AUD $1,330–$2,645
REQUIRES EMPLOYER▾

Document Checklist

0/6 required documents ready

Valid Indian passportREQUIRED
Valid for stay + 6 months
1–2 weeks if renewing
Skills assessmentREQUIRED
From relevant assessing authority (ACS for IT)
6–12 weeks
PTE Academic or IELTS scoresREQUIRED
PTE 79+ or IELTS 8.0+ for maximum points
2–4 weeks
Employment reference lettersREQUIRED
Statutory declarations for each role
2–4 weeks
Police Clearance (PCC)REQUIRED
From India + any country lived 12+ months
1–3 weeks
Health examinationREQUIRED
From BUPA-designated panel physician
1–2 weeks
Proof of fundsIF APPLICABLE
Not mandatory for 189 but recommended
Ongoing

Your Timeline

Total: 8–12 months
⚠Start now to be competitive — policies change fast
1
PreparationYOU ARE HERE
2–4 months▾
1. Verify occupation on MLTSSL
2. Apply for skills assessment
3. Take PTE/IELTS
4. Gather reference letters
2
Submit EOI
1 day▾
3
Receive Invitation
1–6 months in pool▾
4
Lodge Application
60-day deadline▾
5
Processing
6–12 months▾
6
Arrive in Australia
Before visa expiry▾
🔒

Unlock Your Full Roadmap — $29

Everything you need to submit a winning application

✓Complete 189 application walkthrough
✓Points calculator with optimization tips
✓Skills assessment guide by occupation
✓State nomination comparison (190)
✓Common refusal reasons
✓Health exam booking guide
Takes 2 minutes · Instant access · No account required

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Disclaimer: VisaBoard.ai provides immigration information, not legal advice. This roadmap is AI-generated based on publicly available data. VisaBoard.ai is not a law firm. Immigration laws change — verify with official government sources. For complex cases, consult a licensed immigration consultant or attorney. Your visa options, in plain English. Last updated: March 2026.