Emigrating to Australia on a skilled migration route? The 189 visa processing time in 2025 is one of the most sought-after searches among prospective immigrants, and for good reason. As the competition increases and the system evolves to address labour demand and policy changes, it’s critical to keep up to date with the timeline for the Visa Subclass 189. It offers permanent residence without sponsorship by the employer or relatives, and it’s perfect for independent skilled workers worldwide.
This comprehensive guide breaks down all you need to know about the skilled independent visa processing time, onshore vs offshore variations, and tips for improving your chances in 2025.
The 189 visa is a points-tested skilled permanent residency visa for skilled applicants who are neither sponsored by a family member nor employer nor nominated by a state or territory. This visa is also known as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189). With this visa, individuals can settle and work with full rights anywhere in Australia..
Applicants are encouraged to apply based on their Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted through SkillSelect. Once invited, it becomes highly important to understand the 189 visa processing time in order to set expectations and plan relocation efficiently.
Also Read: When Will Be the Next 189 Invitation Round- New Update
There are several factors influencing the processing time of this visa, including:
As of 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs is automating the process in order to streamline visa decisions, but the processing time still varies case by case.
As per the latest update of the Department of Home Affairs and expert analysis from migration services Adelaide, the 189 visa processing time average for 2025 is as follows:
However, high-priority occupations or applicants with higher points may experience faster outcomes. Recently, automation in low-risk cases is also reducing the 189 processing time 2025, compared to past years.
Also Read: Key Differences Between 189 and 190 Visas Explained
There is a distinct contrast between the processing time for 189 visa offshore and onshore. Individuals already in Australia (on a bridging or student visa, say) are more likely to receive quicker turnaround, as long as documents are well prepared and health checks are completed early.
On the other hand, 189 offshore processing times take longer to be completed because of security clearance procedures and liaison with overseas embassies. Offshore applicants are advised to get police certificates and medical tests in advance so as not to experience further delays.
Once you have lodged your application, the 189 visa grant waiting time starts, which is dependent on when you undertake the required checks and if the Department of Home Affairs requires further documentation. Some of the key delay areas are:
Use licensed immigration consultants Adelaide to minimize risks while in this phase.
Also Read: Essential 189 Visa Australia Requirements You Must Know
Your actual 189 visa processing time after invitation only begins when you have submitted your full application. Filing the Expression of Interest (EOI) is not counted. Your application only goes into the pipeline after you’ve been invited and paid.
From this point, you can track your visa status via your ImmiAccount, where your status will go from “Submitted” to “Assessment” and finally “Finalised.”
For offshore applicants, with proper planning, the Australia 189 visa processing time can be a breeze. Since they are mostly vulnerable to prolonged background checks, document preparation at an early stage is imperative. You need to:
Most offshore applicants are aided by a professional migration consultant Adelaide who specialises in preparing strong applications to satisfy all departmental needs.
Also Read: Tips for a Successful Skilled Independent Visa 189 Application!
There are a lot of steps that you can take to optimize your 189 skilled visa process:
Working with migration services Adelaide is also a great way to ensure your documents and form submissions meet regulatory standards.
In 2025, the Department of Home Affairs will also be relying more and more on automation to speed up low-risk applications. Nevertheless, human examination of doubtful cases still exists, particularly those relating to medical issues or issues of character. For this purpose, the visa 189 experience will be mixed based on the applicant’s profile.
Automation may result in faster review, but any red flags or missing information will send the file into manual review, requiring weeks or months for skilled independent visa subclass 189 Australia processing.
Also Read: Skilled Nominated Subclass 190 Visa Document Checklist 2025
Knowing the 189 visa processing time is crucial for planning long-term migration. Offshore or onshore, knowing each step is critical so you know what to expect and won’t be surprised at the last minute. Although processing times may shift due to policy updates or global events, preparation and professional advice are still your best allies.
For skilled migrants looking to make Australia their home, the Visa Subclass 189 offers a stable and rewarding pathway. By staying up to date with processing trends and engaging expert migration consultants, you can ensure a smoother and quicker transition to your new life.
189 visa processing in 2025 takes between 7 to 12 months based on the occupation, points score, and onshore or offshore status of the applicant. High-scoring and decision-ready cases will be processed at a quicker pace.
Yes, processing time for offshore 189 visa applicants is longer by default due to longer background checks and coordination with foreign authorities. Processing time for onshore 189 visa applicants is faster if there are prior medical and character checks.
The 189 visa processing time after invitation begins when you are invited, and your whole visa application has been lodged. Time spent in the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool is not real processing time.
Common reasons for subclass 189 processing time delay are submitting incomplete documents, delayed health checks or police clearances, and non-response to requests from the Department of Home Affairs for additional information.
The success rate for the 189 visa is typically 70%. This implies that the majority of applicants who are eligible and submit proper applications are most likely to get an invitation.
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