Barrister — Subclass 189 Pathway
Skilled Independent visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- No sponsor required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-15 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Barrister for migration purposes is handled by: SLAA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority — the one listed for the nominated ANZSCO code on this site.
Barrister × Subclass 189 — pathway overview
Barristers (ANZSCO 271111) are eligible to apply for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa, as this occupation is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The 189 visa is a points-tested permanent visa that does not require employer sponsorship or state nomination, providing holders with flexibility to work anywhere in Australia. Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and receive an invitation based on a competitive points score. Points are awarded for age, English language proficiency, qualifications, skilled employment experience, and other criteria. Legal professionals with strong points scores and confirmed skills assessments are competitive for invitations in this category. A skills assessment from State and Territory Law Admissions Authority (SLAA) must be obtained before lodging an EOI, confirming qualifications and experience meet Australian professional migration standards. English language proficiency test results, health assessments, and character clearances must all be satisfied before visa grant. Application fees apply. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
Content last generated: 2026-06-26
Key requirements
High-level criteria for Subclass 189. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at invitation
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in a nominated MLTSSL occupation
- Submit Expression of Interest in SkillSelect and meet pass mark (currently 65, effective competitive minimum 90+)
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Barrister
- 186Details →Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Permanent employer-sponsored visa for workers nominated by an approved sponsor.
- 190Details →Skilled Nominated visa
Permanent visa for workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- 482Details →Skills in Demand visa
Employer-sponsored temporary visa (formerly TSS) for occupations on the relevant list.
- 485Details →Temporary Graduate visa
Post-study work visa for recent graduates of Australian qualifications.
- 491Details →Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
Five-year provisional visa for workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
- 494Details →Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa
Five-year employer-sponsored provisional visa in regional Australia, with a path to PR.
State nominations for Barrister
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.