Introduction
Namaste, potential migrants from Nepal!
If you are a Nepalese student who wishes to not only study but also build a career and future in Australia, the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) can be your ticket to gold.
- The 189 visa operates as a points-based visa that grants permanent residency to applicants who do not need employer or state sponsorship.
- The visa permits you to establish residence and work and study throughout all regions of Australia.
- The 189 visa stands as a direct pathway for Nepalese graduates with in-demand skills to obtain permanent residency and eventually citizenship.
- Your path to success depends on your ability to understand eligibility requirements and application procedures and how to optimize your chances.
- Alfa Beta serves as a trusted consultancy that will lead you through the entire process starting from skill assessment until visa application.
What Is the Skilled Independent Visa 189?
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or family member and not nominated by a state or territory.
Key Features:
- Points-tested, with a minimum pass mark required.
- Permanent residency status.
- No sponsorship required.
- Access to Medicare, education, and future citizenship.
- Can include eligible family members in the application.
Core Features of Subclass 189 Visa
- Permanent residency for skilled workers
- No employer sponsorship or state nomination required
- Can live, study, and work anywhere in Australia
- May have family members included
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
Who Is Eligible for the 189 Visa?
To be eligible for the 189 visa, Nepali candidates must meet the following:
- Be under the age of 45 at the time of invitation
- Have an occupation that is nominated on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
- Effectively obtain a relevant skills assessment for the job
- Accrue a minimum of 65 points on the points test
- Have competent English language skills
- Pass the character and health tests
Why Nepalese Students Choose the 189 Visa
Okay, so for a lot of Nepalese students studying in Australia, the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) isn’t just some random option, it's like the goal they’ve been aiming for. Unlike other visas, the 189 doesn’t need you to have an employer or state sponsor. That means you get more freedom to make your own choices.
It’s a straight shot to permanent residency, which is why so many students want it. If you’re thinking about staying and building a life here, this visa makes that possible.
“I chose the 189 visa because it gave me a clear path to stay and work in Australia after graduation without relying on a sponsor.” — Aashish, an IT grad from Kathmandu
For Nepalese students, this visa isn’t just about work. It’s about career growth and stability, things they really care about when planning their future.
Makes you wonder what your ideal visa looks like?
Why it appeals:
- Full work and settlement rights in Australia
- Long-term security and pathway to citizenship
- Recognition of skills gained while studying
- No dependence on sponsors
Eligibility and Points System Explained
To apply for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Nepalese students must meet specific eligibility criteria based on a points-tested system. This system assesses your age, education, work experience, English language ability, and other factors. The minimum requirement is usually 65 points, but higher scores increase your chances of getting an invitation to apply.
The procedure for becoming qualified may seem complicated, but after you practice seeing how the points are composed, it is easy to prepare. Finding out your position early provides you with a good sense of where you must do better such as having more experience or retesting in English.
Familiarity with the system is what will make your application stand out and meet all the criteria.
You earn points for:
- Age (maximum for 25–32 years)
- English proficiency (IELTS, PTE, etc.)
- Education qualifications
- Work experience in and outside Australia
- Study in regional Australia
- Partner’s skills and language ability
Minimum required: 65 points
| Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Age (25-32) | 30 |
| Superior English | 20 |
| Australian work exp. | 5–20 |
| Education (PhD) | 20 |
| Partner skills | 10 |
Occupation List and Skills Assessment
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) requires your occupation to be on the Skilled Occupation List approved by the Australian government. The list includes professions in high need in Australia, e.g., engineers, IT professionals, nurses, etc many of which are comparable to the skill set of Nepalese graduates.
Once your occupation is on the list, the skills assessment by an approved assessing authority is the subsequent task. It verifies your work experience and qualification to meet Australian standards. Choosing the right assessing authority and submitting accurate documents is quite crucial for the success of this step.
Understanding and preparing for the occupation list and skills assessment ahead of time gives a strong base for your 189 visa process.
Important Notes:
- Your job must match exactly with one listed in the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- You need a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
- Skills assessments must be recent (within 3 years) and in the same occupation as your nomination.
English Language and Other Requirements
You’ll need to demonstrate English proficiency using one of the accepted tests:
- IELTS (6.0 each band)
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Cambridge English (CAE)
Other requirements include:
- Medical checks
- Police clearance (character requirement)
- Valid passport and documentation
Step-by-Step 189 Visa Application Process
- Check your eligibility – Use the points calculator and ensure your occupation is on the list.
- Complete a skills assessment – Contact the assessing body and submit your documentation.
- Take an English test – IELTS, PTE, etc.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) – Register with SkillSelect and wait for an invitation.
- Receive an invitation to apply – If selected, you’ll get 60 days to apply.
- Gather documents – School and university qualifications, evidence of work experience, medicals, police clearance, etc.
- Apply online for the visa – Complete the application and pay the fee.
- Wait for a decision – Check on your application and respond to any calls.
- Visa issued! – Start your new life as an Australian permanent resident.
Preparing Your Application: Documents and Timeline
Having a solid and properly organized application is the key to an issue-free Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) application process. Nepalese candidates must gather important documents like an active passport, skills assessment reports, results of English tests (IELTS, PTE, etc.), educational qualifications, and work experience certificates.
Having a strict schedule can keep you on track to start your English test and skills test early, as these do take time. Organize your documents carefully, double-check details, and have everything in order before you send off your application. Avoiding small errors here can avoid weeks or even months of delay.
Documents you will need:
- Valid passport
- Skills assessment results
- English test results
- Educational certificates
- Work experience letters
- Police and medical clearance
Timeline:
- Skills assessment: 2–3 months
- EOI and invitation: varies (1–6 months)
- Application to grant: ~6–12 months
Benefits and Opportunities of the 189 Visa
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) presents some exciting benefits for Nepalese students and professionals wishing to build a future in Australia. You permanently settle down with this visa, which allows you to work, study, and live anywhere in Australia you desire. You are granted access to public health care, education, and sponsorship of eligible family members.
A majority of Nepalese candidates pursue this path in order to get long-term jobs, gain financial stability, and then seek Australian nationality. Success stories of genuine candidates reveal how the 189 visa has helped them at their workplace and personal lives in Australia.
With this visa, Nepalese students gain far more than legal residency.
Main Benefits:
- Live and work anywhere in Australia
- Medicare and public school access
- Become eligible for Australian citizenship within a few years
- Bring the partner and kids with you
- Travel freely to and from Australia with no restriction
“I was able to bring my family over and settle in Sydney with no pressure of sponsorship because of my 189 visa.” — Bibek, Nepalese Civil Engineer
How Alfa Beta Guarantees Your 189 Visa Success
Alfa Beta is dedicated to helping Nepalese students and professional candidates pass the 189 visa successfully. We provide expert guidance on eligibility assessment, test preparation, and documentation to make your application strong and comprehensive. Individual counseling, language training, and skills assessment support are provided by our counselors, which is tailored to meet your requirements.
With Alfa Beta, you get constant advice from lodging your Expression of Interest to applying for your visa so you stay informed and confident every step of the way. We also provide excellent tips to improve your odds and get you ready for Australian life and work once your visa is granted.
Navigating the process alone can be tough. Alfa Beta makes it easier.
Our Services:
- Expert guidance on skill assessment
- Personalized points evaluation
- Assistance with EOI and documentation
- Mock interviews and PTE/IELTS preparation
- Visa submission and testing
Q: Can Alfa Beta guarantee a visa?
A: While no one can guarantee outcomes, our expert team boosts your chances with proper planning and support.
Frequently Asked Questions for Nepalese Applicants
- What is the first step to apply for the 189 visa?
First, check if your occupation is on the list and calculate your points. Then, get a skills assessment and prepare your EOI. - How can Alfa Beta help improve my chances?
We offer full support—from assessing your eligibility to final document review and submission. - Which English test should I take?
IELTS and PTE Academic are the most common among Nepalese students. Make sure to meet the required band. - How long does the process take from Nepal?
From EOI to visa grant, it usually takes 6–12 months depending on individual cases.
Get Started: Book a Free Consultation
Ready to start your 189 visa journey? You can contact Alfa Beta at www.alfabetaglobal.com
Conclusion
Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 is an excellent opportunity for Nepalese students to remain, work, and settle in Australia. It is crucial that one should be aware of eligibility, points, and the application process to attain success. With careful preparation of documents, meeting all the criteria, and availing expert help from renowned consultancies like Alfa Beta, you will easily undertake this process. Start. Stay alert, and get started on your journey towards your Australian dream. Receive expert advice and assistance by contacting Alfa Beta and make your first step to migration a reality.
Don’t wait to book your free consultation with Alfa Beta today and take the first step toward your future in Australia!
Hurry up guys!
