Big News: Fresh 189 Invitations Released 

After months of silence, the Department of Home Affairs has finally issued a new Skilled Independent 189 visa invitations round, bringing relief and excitement for many skilled migration applicants.

At Asif Consulting, we are pleased to share that this round has seen a strong movement — with invitations being issued across priority occupations, particularly in the construction and housing trades.

Key Highlights from the Latest 189 Invitation Round

• Over 40 invitations were reported across clients, showing that the government is restarting skilled migration momentum. 
• Construction and housing trades are the main focus — carpenters, electricians, painters, and plasterers dominated the invitations. 
• Carpenters and electricians with just 65 points received invitations, proving how urgently Australia needs skilled trades to address its housing crisis. 
• Other professions were also included, but at much higher points: 
  • Early Childhood Teacher – 85 points 
  • Life Scientist – 90 points 
  • Boat Builder – 90 points 

This clearly shows that while trades are the top priority, high-demand non-trade roles are still being considered if applicants meet higher points thresholds.

Why Construction Trades Are Prioritised

Australia continues to face a housing and infrastructure shortage, and this round confirms that the government is heavily prioritising tradespeople to speed up housing projects.
If you’re in construction, now is the best time to act.

What This Means for Other Professions

• Non-trade applicants can still receive invitations, but only with very high points (85–90+). 
• This highlights the importance of: 
  • Improving English test scores 
  • Gaining additional work experience 
  • Claiming partner points 
  • Keeping your Expression of Interest (EOI) updated 

A Quick Refresher: What is the 189 Visa?

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is one of Australia’s most sought-after pathways to permanent residency (PR).

• No employer sponsorship or state nomination required 
• Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia 
• Points are awarded based on: 
  • Age 
  • English skills 
  • Work experience 
  • Qualifications 
  • Partner skills 
  • Extra factors like regional study 

Invitations are only issued during government rounds, which are not pre-announced. That’s why having a strong, updated EOI is essential.

What About State Visas (190 & 491)?

• The state nomination programs (subclass 190 and 491) have not yet been officially announced. 
• Indications suggest September 2025 as the expected commencement date for the new program year. 
• These visas will provide alternative pathways to PR for those who don’t receive a 189 invitation.

Looking Ahead – Future Rounds

• Construction trades remain the strongest category (65 points sufficient in this round). 
• Other professions require high scores (85–90+). 
• State pathways (190 & 491) will soon open more opportunities.

How to Prepare Now

If you’re still waiting, use this time wisely:

• Check and update your points score. 
• Ensure your skills assessment and documents are valid. 
• Consider retaking your English test for a better score. 
• Stay updated on government announcements. 

A Win for Successful Applicants

Congratulations to those who received invitations in this round — this marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards Australian permanent residency.

For those still waiting, don’t lose hope. The fact that invitations are flowing again is very positive news, and being prepared ensures you won’t miss your opportunity when the next round opens.

How Asif Consulting Can Help You

At Asif Consulting, we guide applicants across every step of the skilled migration journey — from preparing a strong EOI to ensuring you’re ready for unexpected invitation rounds.

Whether you are:

• A carpenter or electrician looking to secure your PR, 
• A teacher or scientist working on boosting your points, or 
• Simply unsure of where to begin, 

Our team can design a tailored strategy to maximize your chances.

Contact Asif Consulting today to get expert advice and ensure you’re ready for the next invitation round.