A ustralia’s permanent-skilled migration landscape has shifted gear. The next invitation round for the Subclass 189 visa (Skilled Independent Visa) is officially scheduled for 13 November 2025, offering renewed opportunity for high-scoring applicants.
What this means for you
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Because Subclass 189 allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia — without needing employer or state sponsorship — it remains a highly sought-after pathway.
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With the program year 2025-26 under way, applicants should act now: ensure your Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect is accurate, current and competitive.
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The competition is strong. Many invitations target priority occupations and higher point-scoring profiles.
Key preparation checklist
We recommend you take the following steps immediately to maximise your chances:
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Update your EOI
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Log into SkillSelect and check your details: occupation, employment history, English test, qualifications.
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If any information has changed, submit the update now. Even small improvements in score or date-of-effect can matter.
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Review your skills assessment and occupation match
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Make sure your nominated occupation corresponds with your assessing authority’s outcome.
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Verify your ANZSCO code and ensure your work experience aligns with the required duties.
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Calculate and optimise your points
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Age, English level, skilled employment, qualifications, partner skills — all add up.
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With invitations only issued periodically, every extra point improves your competitiveness.
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Prepare your supporting documentation
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Evidenced payslips, reference letters, test results and qualifications should already be gathered.
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If invited, you’ll need to lodge your visa application within 60 days.
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Consider pathway alternatives
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If your score is borderline, review state-nomination pathways such as the Subclass 190 or 491 visas.
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Having a backup plan can reduce pressure and improve your strategic outcome.
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🎯 What the latest round reveals
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The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed the round for 13 November, reaffirming the intent to restore predictability for skilled migrants.
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The competitive range of points and occupations is broad: trade and construction roles may see lower thresholds (65-70 points) while niche professions (e.g., life scientists) may face thresholds closer to 90-95 points.
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Occupations in healthcare, education, construction, engineering and ICT remain high on priority lists.
How Skyline Migration Lawyers can assist you
At Skyline, our experienced team will:
Conduct a full EOI review and points audit, identifying areas to boost your ranking.
Guide you through the skills-assessment process, ensuring correct occupation code and evidence.
Help you gather the essential documentation ahead of invitation rounds.
Develop a strategic backup plan, including state-nomination and alternative pathways if required.
Support you through the visa-application stage once you receive an invitation.
With the 13 November 2025 Subclass 189 invitation round confirmed, the next few weeks are crucial. Whether you’re already in the SkillSelect pool or preparing to join, now is the time for action. Ensure your EOI is current, your points are maximised and your evidence is ready.
If you’d like a tailored assessment of your profile and migration strategy, book a consultation with Skyline Migration Lawyers today.
