Certified Translation for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is Australia's points-tested permanent residency pathway for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory government. It's one of the most sought-after visas in Australia's skilled migration program — and because it leads directly to permanent residence, the documentation requirements are thorough.
If any of your supporting documents are in a language other than English, you will need a certified translation skilled independent visa 189 applicants are required to obtain from a NAATI-credentialled translator. This guide explains what you need, why it matters, and how to get it done efficiently.
How the Subclass 189 Application Works
The subclass 189 process begins with submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. If you receive an invitation to apply, you typically have 60 days to lodge a complete application with the Department of Home Affairs. This tight window means you need to have your translations organised well in advance — not after you receive your invitation.
The visa is points-tested. The minimum points threshold varies depending on occupation demand, but most successful applicants score well above 65 points. Strong documentation, including clear and accurate certified translations, helps ensure your claims are processed without delays or requests for further information.
Documents Requiring Certified Translation for Subclass 189
Skills Assessment Documents
Before lodging a subclass 189 application, you must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. Many skills assessment bodies require certified translations of your qualifications and work experience evidence. The following documents commonly need translation:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Diplomas and vocational qualifications
- Professional membership certificates
- Employment reference letters and experience letters
- Payslips and employment contracts (if supporting experience claims)
Identity and Civil Status Documents
- Birth certificate
- Passport (bio data pages and relevant visa history pages)
- Marriage certificate (if your spouse or partner is included in the application)
- Divorce certificate (if previously married)
- Change of name certificate
- Adoption certificate (if applicable)
Character Documents
- Police clearance certificates from every country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years
- Court judgements or sentencing documents (if applicable)
Partner and Family Documents
If you are including your partner or dependent children in your application, their documents must also be translated. This includes:
- Partner's birth certificate and identity documents
- Children's birth certificates
- Evidence of the relationship (where documents are in a foreign language)
English Language Evidence
If you are claiming points for English language proficiency, test results from IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or OET do not require translation — they are issued in English. However, supporting correspondence from educational institutions that is in a foreign language should be translated.
Who Can Certify Translations for a Subclass 189 Application?
The Department of Home Affairs requires that all non-English documents be translated by a NAATI-certified translator. NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters) is Australia's national standards body for the translation profession.
A NAATI certified translation for a skilled independent visa 189 application must include:
- The translator's full name and NAATI credential number
- A signed declaration of accuracy
- The date the translation was completed
- The language pair (e.g., Hindi to English, Mandarin to English)
Important: Bilingual friends, colleagues, or community members cannot certify your translations — even if they are fluent in both languages. Only NAATI-credentialled translators are accepted by the Department of Home Affairs for immigration purposes.
Common Mistakes That Delay Subclass 189 Applications
Submitting untranslated documents
Some applicants attach original foreign language documents and assume the case officer will find them acceptable or arrange translation. They won't. Every document in a language other than English must be accompanied by a complete certified translation.
Using non-NAATI certified translators
Translation certificates from overseas bodies or bilingual professionals without NAATI credentials will not be accepted. Always verify your translator's current NAATI accreditation status before proceeding.
Incomplete translations
A certified translation must cover the entire document — including headers, footers, stamps, seals, and any handwritten notations. A translation that omits the official stamp or notarial endorsement may be considered incomplete.
Leaving translations to the last minute
You have 60 days from invitation to lodge a complete application. Translation turnaround is typically 24–48 hours per document, but if you have a large document set — especially one including academic transcripts and employment records spanning multiple years — starting early is essential.
Translations for Skills Assessment vs Visa Lodgement
Keep in mind that you may need certified translations twice in the subclass 189 pathway. First, for your skills assessment with the relevant assessing authority (such as Engineers Australia, VETASSESS, ACS, or AHPRA), and then again when you lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Some assessing authorities accept the same certified translation documents you used for your visa, while others require fresh translations. Check the specific requirements of your assessing authority before reusing documents.
How LodgeHQ Translations Makes This Easier
LodgeHQ Translations is a marketplace that connects you with NAATI-certified translators across all major languages. You upload your documents, receive competitive quotes, and choose a translator who fits your timeline. Most translations are delivered within 48 hours, and all translations come with the required NAATI certification statement ready for Department of Home Affairs submission.
Ready to get started? Get your certified translation today — upload your document, compare quotes from NAATI-certified translators, and receive your translation within 48 hours.