Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) for nurses

How it works

You lodge an Expression of Interest in SkillSelect with your occupation, points and evidence. Home Affairs runs invitation rounds. If you are invited, you have a set period to lodge the visa application with evidence for every claim.

Key requirements

• A nominated occupation on the relevant skilled list (several RN occupations have been eligible)
• A positive ANMAC skills assessment
• Competent English or higher, with more points for higher English
• Age under 45 at invitation
• The points test pass mark, though invitations often require more
• Health and character requirements

Registration

The 189 does not itself require NMBA registration, but you need it to work as a nurse after arrival. Many nurses complete registration first, which also affects which ANMAC assessment type applies.

Permanent residency

The 189 is a permanent visa from grant. It lets you live and work anywhere in Australia.