The skilled independent visa category is expected to expand rapidly.The Albanese Government intends to increase the number of positions available in the Skilled Independent category (Subclass 189) in 2022-23, most likely beginning later this month.The Skilled Independent category best describes Australia as a country of immigrant settlers.Governments have increased immigration numbers through this highly discretionary category, either to fill skill gaps or, in the long run, to slow the rate of population ageing.