Is it hard to get a 189 visa in Australia? Tips to Improve Your Chances

A question we hear constantly from our clients this year: Is it hard to get a 189 visa in Australia?

The reality is that the 189 visa landscape has transformed. With Australia’s new 4-Tier Priority System, the visa has become a precision tool for critical sectors like healthcare, construction, and education. While this makes the process more competitive for general occupations, it also means there are clearer, faster pathways for those who align with the current ‘Skills in Demand’ priorities.

But here is the good news: you can still significantly boost your invitation prospects. You might be asking: Which tier does my occupation fall into? What are the new ‘human capital’ factors in the 2026 points test? And how is the latest immigration strategy affecting processing times? In this blog, we’ll break down the latest 2026 trends and show you how to optimize your EOI to stand out in the current invitation rounds.”

Is It Hard to Get a 189 Visa in Australia in 2026?

As of 2026, it can be challenging to get a 189 visa in Australia. Yet it is achievable with the right preparation and arrangements. You just have to meet the specific requirements and score maximum points in the points-based system.

The Australian government has made changes to immigration policies. The 189 Skilled Independent Visa has shifted from a broad “catch-all” visa to a highly surgical tool used by the government to fill very specific gaps. Thus, the competition among candidates is quite high. So, you need to prepare well to increase your chances of getting this visa.

And here I’ll share the best tips and tricks to obtain a 189 visa. Let’s first understand what a 189 visa is.

What is subclass 189 visa?

The 189 visa is a points-tested permanent residence visa designed for skilled workers who want to move to Australia independently. Unlike other visa subclasses under General Skilled Migration, you don’t need an employer, state, or family sponsor; you just need enough points based on your age, skills, English, and work experience.

The Tiered System: 

In late 2025 and 2026, the Department of Home Affairs fully implemented a 4-Tier Priority System. If your occupation is in Tier 1 (Specialist Healthcare) or Tier 2 (Critical Infrastructure/Education), you are much more likely to get an invite with lower points.

Sector-Specific Strategy: General occupations (Accounting, HR, Marketing) are now in “Tier 4,” making the 189 visa extremely difficult for them. These applicants are being steered toward the 190 or 491 pathways.

Point Score Inflation: While the minimum is still 65 points, for most professional sectors, a “safe” score is now considered 85–95+ points.

How Does the Points System Work?

The 189 Visa is points-based. You need to score enough points to receive an invitation to apply. Points are awarded based on several factors:

Age: Younger applicants receive more points. For example, those aged 25 – 32 get the maximum points.
English Proficiency: Higher scores in English language tests like IELTS or PTE can earn you more points.
Work Experience: Points are awarded for skilled work experience both in Australia and overseas.
Education: Higher qualifications, like a bachelor’s degree or higher, can earn you more points.
Other Factors: Points can also be earned for factors like studying in Australia, partner skills, and more.

Point requirements for 4 -Tiers 

Why is it Hard to get a 189 Visa in Australia ?

Currently, Australia is introducing significant changes in its immigration policies aimed at addressing workforce shortages. Here are some challenges that many applicants face while submitting applications for 189 visas in Australia:

Increased Points Requirement 

Due to high demand for skilled workers, the points required for the 189 visa may become more competitive. Many applicants have had to score well above the minimum of 65 points to receive an invitation.

Processing Times

The average processing time for a 189 visa application is currently around 10 to 11 months. This means if you apply today, you might wait over a year before getting a decision on your application.

Changes in Occupation Lists 

The Australian government regularly updates its Skilled Occupation List based on labor market needs. If your occupation is removed from this list or if there are many applicants for your job, it could make it harder for you to get the visa.

The 2026 Landscape: What the Data Shows

If you are planning your application today, you aren’t just competing against other people; you are navigating a new, structured selection system. The “random” nature of past invitation rounds has been replaced by a surgical, data-driven approach.

The 16,900 Cap

For the 2025–2026 program, the government has set a firm ceiling of 16,900 places for the 189 visa. This is a deliberate reduction from previous years, designed to make the  subclass189 a “specialist” visa while pushing other applicants toward State Nomination (190) or Regional (491) pathways.

The New 4-Tier Hierarchy

Your success in 2026 depends on Tiers. Points are still important, but your occupation’s category is the primary gatekeeper.

• Skills in Demand Stream – Priority occupations receive first consideration
• Core Skills Stream – General skilled occupations with competitive requirements
• Specialist Skills Stream – Unique qualifications and high-value professionals
• General Points-Tested Stream – Standard invitation pathway

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting 189 Visa in Australia

Even though there are challenges, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of getting a 189 visa:

Tip 1: Enhance Your Skills 

Consider gaining additional qualifications or certifications that are recognised in Australia. This can help increase your points score.

Tip 2: Improve English Proficiency

A higher score on English language tests like IELTS can significantly boost your points. Aim for at least a score of 7 or higher in each component.

Tip 3: Gain Relevant Work Experience 

Work experience in your nominated occupation can earn you extra points. Try to accumulate at least three years of relevant experience before applying.

Tip 4: Stay Updated on Immigration Policies

Regularly check for updates regarding immigration policies and occupation lists. Being informed will help you adapt your strategy as needed.

Tip 5: Consider State Sponsorship 

If you’re struggling with the points requirement for the 189 visa, look into state-sponsored visas (like the 190 or 491). These often have lower point thresholds but may require you to live and work in a specific state for a period.

Tip 6: Seek Professional Advice 

Consider consulting with a migration agent or lawyer to ensure your application is strong and complete. Schedule an appointment with us at The Migration for professional advice. We’ll help you throughout the process and ensure you submit a flawless and decision-ready application.

Conclusion 

So, is it hard to get a 189 visa in Australia 2026? Yes, it can be challenging due to increased competition and changing immigration policies. It is more about strategy than luck. While the 189 visa remains highly competitive due to a tighter annual cap of 16,900 places, it has evolved into a precision-based visa. If your expertise lies in a “Tier 1” priority sector or a critical trade, the door is wider than ever.

However, success this year requires more than just meeting the 65-point minimum; it requires a deep understanding of the new Quarterly Invitation Rounds and how to optimise your profile to beat the “tie-breaker” scores. While the landscape is shifting, hundreds of professionals continue to call Australia home every month by making informed, data-driven decisions.

Don’t leave your permanent residency to chance in this new era of migration. Whether you need to find your specific “Priority Tier” or want to maximise your points before the next quarterly round, our team is ready to help. Book a consultation with our migration specialists today and turn your Australian dream into a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How hard is it to get a 189 visa in Australia?

Getting a 189 visa can be quite challenging due to high competition and strict requirements. Many skilled workers apply for this visa, and you need to score at least 65 points based on factors like age, education, and work experience to be considered.

What is the rejection rate for a 189 visa?

The rejection rate for a 189 visa can vary, but it is estimated that around 30% of applications may be rejected. This can happen if applicants do not meet the points requirement or fail to provide the necessary documentation.

What is the success rate of the Australia 189 visa?

The success rate for the 189 visa is generally around 70%. It means that most applicants who meet the criteria and submit complete applications are likely to receive an invitation to apply.

How do I get invited for a 189 visa?

To get an invitation for a 189 visa, you should:

• Achieve at least 65 points on the points test.
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
• Ensure your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List.
• Stay updated on immigration changes and be ready to act quickly when invitations are issued.

By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you can improve your chances of receiving an invitation for the 189 visa.