An Immigration Consultant Perth professional will tell you the same thing every time: your occupation is the gatekeeper for the Subclass 189 visa. If your job isn’t on the right list, no amount of points will get you an invitation. This guide breaks down the occupation list, eligibility, documents, costs, and timelines — all in one place.
What Is the Subclass 189 Visa Occupation List?
It’s the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) — the only list that qualifies you for the Subclass 189. Unlike the 190 or 491, this visa needs no state or employer sponsor. Around 212 occupations currently sit on the MLTSSL, set out in Legislative Instrument LIN 19/051.
Which Occupations Qualify for the 189 Visa?
Only MLTSSL occupations count for the skilled independent visa 189 — appearing on the STSOL or CSOL alone won’t work. Below is a sample across major professional groups.
How Does an Immigration Consultant Perth Check Your Occupation?
A consultant matches your qualifications and job duties against the ANZSCO description, not just the job title. This step decides which assessing body reviews your case and whether the 189 pathway is even open to you.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
- You need more than a listed occupation to qualify.
- Occupation on the MLTSSL
- A positive skills assessment from the relevant authority
- Aged under 45 at the time of invitation
- Competent English (or higher, for more points)
- A minimum of 65 points on the SkillSelect points test
- An invitation to apply, issued through SkillSelect
What Documents Do You Need?
Getting your paperwork right the first time saves months of delay.
- Positive skills assessment result
- Valid passport and identity documents
- English test results (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent)
- Employment references and payslips
- Educational qualifications and transcripts
- Police clearance certificates (all countries lived in for 12+ months)
- Health examination results
How Long Does Processing Take?
Most Subclass 189 applications are finalised within 8 to 14 months of invitation, though this varies by occupation ceiling and application volume. Complex cases with extra document checks can run longer.
Subclass 189 at a Glance
Not sure where your occupation sits on the list? Talk to a registered migration agent before you spend money on a skills assessment — it’s the cheapest way to avoid a costly mistake.
What’s the Latest Policy Update? (Updated August 2026)
From 1 July 2026, the Department of Home Affairs increased visa application charges under the Home Affairs Legislation Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Regulations 2026. The Subclass 189 primary applicant charge rose to A$6,135 (up from A$4,765), with A$3,070 per adult and A$1,540 per child added to the application. Skilled visa charges across the 189, 190, 491, 494, and 186 now sit between A$6,135 and A$6,140.
Beyond fees, the MLTSSL itself isn’t reviewed on a fixed annual date — the Department can add, remove, or shift occupations between lists at any point based on labour market data and industry submissions. If your occupation has recently changed list, or carries a caveat, your EOI eligibility can change even without you doing anything. Always cross-check your ANZSCO code on the official skilled occupation list before lodging a skills assessment or EOI, and speak with a registered agent if your occupation has moved list in the last 12 months.
FAQs
Is my occupation on the MLTSSL?
Search the official Department of Home Affairs skilled occupation list tool using your ANZSCO code or job title. Only MLTSSL-listed occupations qualify for the Subclass 189.
Can I apply for the 189 visa without a job offer?
Yes. The Subclass 189 is a points-tested, independent visa — no employer or state sponsorship is required.
How many points do I need for the 189 visa?
The minimum is 65, but recent invitation rounds have favoured applicants scoring well above that, especially in popular occupations.
Does the 189 visa lead to permanent residence immediately?
Yes. The Subclass 189 grants permanent residence from the day it’s approved, unlike provisional visas such as the 491.
What happens if my occupation moves off the MLTSSL?
You generally need your occupation on the list both at EOI submission and at the time of invitation, so list changes can affect your eligibility mid-process.
Do I need a migration agent to apply?
It’s not compulsory, but a MARA-registered agent helps avoid common errors in points claims and document evidence that can delay or refuse an application.