​Introduction to Australia’s Three Main Skilled Migration Visas

Australia offers three primary skilled migration visa categories: Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491. These pathways enable skilled migrants to secure permanent residency in Australia. But what are the differences between these visas? Let’s break it down:

1. Application Requirements for 189, 190, and 491 Visas

Subclass 189: Skilled Independent Visa

• Requirements:
  • Obtain a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the 189 Skilled Occupation List.
  • No state/territory sponsorship or employer sponsorship required.
  • Achieve a minimum of 65 points under the points test.
  • Be under 45 years of age with English proficiency at competent level (minimum IELTS 6 in all bands).
  • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI); upon receiving an invitation, lodge a visa application within 60 days.
  • Outcome: Directly receive permanent residency (PR).

Subclass 190: Skilled Nominated Visa

• Requirements:
  • Obtain a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the 190 Skilled Occupation List.
  • State/territory government sponsorship required, which adds 5 points to your EOI score.
  • Achieve a minimum of 65 points, be under 45 years of age, and have competent English.
  • Fulfill specific state/territory requirements for residence and work duration.
  • Submit EOI, and in some cases, an additional ROI (Registration of Interest) or Matrix.
  • Upon receiving a state nomination, lodge the visa application.
  • Outcome: Permanent residency, with an obligation to live in the nominating state for 2 years.

Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

• Requirements:
  • Obtain a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the 491 Skilled Occupation List.
  • State/territory government sponsorship required, which adds 15 points to your EOI score.
  • Achieve a minimum of 65 points, be under 45 years of age, and have competent English.
  • Meet state-specific requirements for regional residence and work duration.
  • Submit EOI and possibly an additional ROI or Matrix.

  • Outcome: A 5-year temporary visa with the requirement to live and work in designated regional areas (outside Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane). After 3 years in a regional area, apply for Subclass 191 PR.

  2. Invitation Mechanisms for 189, 190, and 491 

Subclass 189: Skilled Independent Visa

• Invitation Criteria:
  • Ranked by EOI score, with higher scores receiving invitations first.
  • For applicants with the same score, invitations are issued based on EOI submission dates.
• Key Points:
  • High eligibility thresholds ensure that only top candidates receive invitations.
  • No restrictions on the applicant’s current country of residence or employment status.

Subclass 190: Skilled Nominated Visa

• Invitation Criteria:
  • Must meet specific state/territory sponsorship requirements, including occupation list eligibility.
  • States prioritize applicants who have studied, worked, or lived in the state.
  • Factors such as work experience, income level, and partner points are often considered.

Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional Visa

• Invitation Criteria:
  • Focuses on attracting migrants to regional areas, with state/territory-specific occupation lists and requirements.
  • Generally lower EOI score thresholds compared to 190, making it accessible for applicants with lower scores.
  • Requires a long-term commitment to living and working in regional areas as a prerequisite for PR.

3. Additional Tips for Successful Skilled Migration

• Skilled migration to Australia is complex, with each visa type having unique requirements and invitation mechanisms.
• Applicants should carefully evaluate their eligibility, preferred visa type, and regional preferences before applying.
• Familiarizing yourself with the process in advance helps streamline your migration plan, saving time and avoiding common pitfalls.

Planning ahead is essential for navigating Australia’s skilled migration system successfully. Choose wisely and pave the way for your future in Australia!