The skilled independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residency pathway under Australian immigration law. This visa allows you to reside, work and study in Australia permanently. Holders may also sponsor eligible relatives and, if the eligibility criteria are met, may apply for Australian citizenship.
However, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced some major changes to how skilled workers are invited for this visa subclass. This blog post outlines the new tier-based invitation system for subclass 189, how it works, how it will affect the visa application process, and how you can prepare strategically.
What Is the Subclass 189 Occupation Tier Model?
This new model for the SC189 skilled migration program introduces a tier-based system to decide how many invitations can be accepted for an occupation, and their priority.
Background on SkillSelect and Invitation Rounds
Before discussing this four-tier occupation model, it is important to understand how the process fundamentally works.
Applicants submit their expression of interest (EOI) in SkillSelect to enter this skilled nominated program, and submit a suitable skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority. The Department of Home Affairs compares applicants based on points claimed in the EOI. Applicants with a minimum of 65 points may become eligible for an invitation. The invitation may specify a higher points threshold, which must be met at the time of visa grant.
Why the Tier System Matters to Applicants
Previously, invitation rounds were determined solely by applicant points and occupation ceilings. These ceilings refer to the maximum number of EOIs that can be considered for the roles listed in the skilled occupation list. Applicants with higher points had greater priority, while those with lower points had a reduced likelihood of receiving an invitation when occupation ceilings were reached.
While the occupation ceiling logic remains, this tier system means eligible applicants receive invitation priority if their occupation is on a higher tier. The SC189 program aims to support workforce needs across a broader range of occupations.
Furthermore, the introduction of the tier system is intended to ensure a more balanced distribution of skilled migrants, supporting critical sectors while also promoting diversity within the skilled workforce.
How the Tier Model Is Used by the Department of Home Affairs
The four-tier model helps the Department of Home Affairs better manage emerging labour market needs. According to the model, the highest value occupations get the most priority as they are on Tier 1, and as the tiers decrease, so does the invitation priority.
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The Four Occupation Tiers Explained
The following is an overview of each tier within the prioritisation model:
Tier 1: Highest Priority Occupations
Tier 1 includes critical occupations with immediate public value, as they directly contribute to Australia's economy and public services. These generally include roles with long training periods, specialised education, postgraduate training, and long-term demand. Some examples of such occupations include medical specialists, general practitioners, registered nurses, surgeons, and researchers.
Tier 2: High Priority Occupations
Tier 2 includes less critical occupations, with government priorities and recognition in Ministerial Direction No. 105, excluding those already a part of Tier 1. Tier 2 is aimed at addressing skill shortages in education, health, and other key sectors' roles, such as early childhood teachers, psychologists, social workers, and special education teachers.
Tier 3: Diverse Skilled Occupations
Tier 3 priority is to maintain diversity in Australia's workforce, ensuring long-term adaptability and robust human capital. This tier includes occupations like scientists, engineers, lawyers, music directors, and architects.
Tier 4: Oversupplied Occupations with Lower Priority
Tier 4 includes general skilled occupations that continuously receive a high volume of EOIs every year, such as accountants, chefs, and telecommunication roles. These occupations often have highly competitive invitation rounds and risk occupational oversupply if left unchecked.
How Occupation Tiers Influence Invitation Outcomes
The SC189 occupation tiers significantly affect how the invitation system works.
Occupation Ceilings and Invitation Multipliers
Each tier has an invitation multiplier. This is used to multiply the total number of workers already in an occupation (from government data) by a percentage to set its occupation ceiling. So, the higher the multiplier, the more 189 visas that can be granted for an occupation. The multipliers for each tier are as follows:
- Tier 1: 4%
- Tier 2: 2%
- Tier 3: 1%
- Tier 4: 0.5%
Why Points Alone Are Not Enough
This tier-based system means points alone cannot determine your invitation outcome. Occupations on a higher tier will have more priority and a high priority occupations multiplier, which means there will be more reason to consider them, even if their applicants have low scores. Similarly, applicants with higher scores cannot automatically have better chances if their occupation is in a lower tier.
Example Invitation Differences by Tier
See the example below to better understand how the tier differences work:
- A medical specialist applicant with a low points score receives an invitation. Their occupation is in Tier 1, which means higher occupation ceilings and priority.
- A materials engineer applicant with a high points score doesn't receive their invitation. Their occupation is in Tier 3, which has a lower priority and occupation ceiling.
Strategic Planning for Subclass 189 Applicants
With the new tier system in place, applicants need to plan strategically to be better placed for the skilled independent visa's invitation rounds. Keep these pointers in mind:
Assessing Your Occupation Tier Before Lodging EOI
The first thing to do is check where your occupation tier is before submitting your EOI. This will help you understand potential outcomes and whether you have to aim for a higher points score.
Improving Points to Compete Within a Tier
Points still matter. Even for a Tier 1 occupation, the higher your points are, the better your chances of an invitation. If you cannot get a high score, you can consult a registered migration lawyer to understand how to prepare better.
Considering Alternative Pathways (190, 491, Employer-Sponsored)
If your occupation is on a lower tier, it is best to consider alternatives, like employer-sponsored pathways. You can choose from multiple visa pathways that are better suited to your circumstances, such as:
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Book a Consultation
If you are interested in getting more information about a visa, get in touch with Australian Migration Lawyers for a consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Subclass 189 Occupation Tiers
What Occupations Are in Each Tier?
Tier 1 includes the highest priority occupations, Tier 2 includes high priority occupations, Tier 3 includes diverse occupations, and Tier 4 includes oversupplied occupations.
Do Points Still Matter Under the Tiered System?
Yes. Points decide your eligibility, and also your chances of getting invited. Even if your occupation is at a high tier, a low points score means those applying for the same occupation and with a higher score will be prioritised first.
How Often Are Invitations Issued Under the New System?
Currently, a quarterly invitation schedule is being followed for SC189.
Can a Tier 4 Occupation Still Get Invited?
Yes. Although Tier 4 applicants are difficult to reach, they can still be invited if there are any remaining places after higher-tier applicants have been prioritised.
Should I Choose Another Visa Pathway If My Tier Is Low?
You can consider exploring alternatives if your primary pathway is SC189, but you have a lower-tiered occupation. Other pathways may have potential for better outcomes, given your circumstances.
Why Choose AML for Guidance on Subclass 189 Invitations
Strategic planning is vital to navigating the SC189 skilled program. At Australian Migration Lawyers, our team of immigration lawyers provides professional guidance on all visas, including subclass 189. We can help you stay informed about various aspects of this pathway, from the tier details to the occupational ceilings, so you can make the right decision.
Our knowledge of migration law and current visa regulations enables us to guide clients on tier placements, points strategies, and invitation prospects. Our lawyers will work directly with you, step by step, to clarify visa obligations and assess alternative pathways. With our support, you can rest assured that you will receive practical, transparent advice for your case.
If you require further guidance on the subclass 189 invitation process or need assistance with preparing your application, contact Australian Migration Lawyers for tailored legal advice and support. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you have clear, accurate information for every stage of your migration journey.
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