Learn the Key Differences between the 189 and 190 Visas

Choosing the right visa for skilled migration to Australia can be challenging, especially when deciding between the 189 Skilled Visa Australia and the 190 Skilled Nominated Visa. While both visas offer permanent residency, the key differences lie in state nomination, eligibility criteria, and application processes. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the best pathway based on your skills, occupation, and migration goals.

What Is the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa?

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. It allows successful applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia without restrictions. This visa is points-tested, meaning candidates must meet the required score based on factors such as age, work experience, education, and English proficiency.

A key difference between 189 and 190 visa is that the 189 visa does not require state or territory nomination, making it more flexible. In contrast, the 190 skilled visa Australia requires nomination from an Australian state, which may come with specific residency obligations. While both visas provide a pathway to permanent residency, the 189 visa offers greater independence in choosing where to live and work in Australia.

What Is the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa?

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who receive nomination from an Australian state or territory. This visa is designed for professionals whose occupations are in demand in specific regions, helping address local labor shortages.

To qualify, applicants must have an occupation listed on the relevant state’s skilled occupation list, meet the points test requirement, and obtain a nomination from a state or territory government. Unlike the 189 visa, which does not require state sponsorship, the 190 visa comes with a condition to live and work in the nominating state for a certain period. This pathway benefits skilled migrants who may have slightly lower points but can secure a nomination to strengthen their visa application.

Differences Between the 189 and 190 Visas

Feature	Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa	Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa
State Nomination	Not required	Required from a state/territory government
Residency Obligation	No restriction, can live anywhere in Australia	Must live and work in the nominating state for a specified period
Points Requirement	Minimum 65 points required	Minimum 65 points, but state nomination grants extra 5 points
Application Process	Direct invitation from SkillSelect	Must apply for state nomination before receiving an invitation
Occupation List	Must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)	Must be on the state’s skilled occupation list, which may include additional occupations
Processing Time	Generally faster due to fewer steps	May take longer due to additional state nomination processing
Job Requirement	No job offer required	Some states may require a job offer or work experience in that state
Visa Independence	Fully independent, no ties to any state	Tied to the nominating state, at least initially
PR Pathway	Direct pathway to permanent residency	Also a permanent residency visa but with initial state obligations

Both visas offer a pathway to permanent residency, but the Subclass 189 provides more flexibility, while the Subclass 190 helps applicants with fewer points by offering state nomination advantages.

Application Process for 189 and 190 visa

• Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet the visa requirements.
• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) – Apply online via SkillSelect.
• Wait for an Invitation – Only invited candidates can proceed with the visa application.
• Apply Through ImmiAccount – If invited, submit your application online.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be under 45 years old.
• Your occupation must be listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the points-based test.
• Provide proof of English language proficiency.

State Sponsorship (For Subclass 190 Only):

• Some states require applicants to apply for nomination before proceeding.
• Certain states and territories may ask you to register your interest before offering sponsorship.

Document Requirements for 189 and 190 Visa

When applying for a Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa or Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa, you must submit a set of essential documents to support your application. These documents are required to verify your identity, skills, and eligibility for skilled migration to Australia.

General Documents for both 189 and 190 Visas

• Identity Documents – Passport, birth certificate, and national ID (if applicable).
• Skills Assessment Report – A positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority.
• English Language Test Results – Proof of proficiency through IELTS, PTE, or equivalent tests.
• Expression of Interest (EOI) Confirmation – Evidence that you have submitted an EOI through SkillSelect.
• Points Test Evidence – Documents supporting your claims, such as work experience letters, education certificates, and partner skills (if applicable).
• Health and Character Documents – Medical examination results and police clearance certificates.

Additional Documents for Subclass 190 Visa

• State Nomination Approval – Proof of nomination from an Australian state or territory.
• Commitment Statement – Some states require a declaration to live and work in the nominating state.
• Employment Evidence – If required by the state, provide a job offer or proof of work experience in the region.

All required documents must be uploaded when submitting your visa application online through the Home Affairs website Australia. Ensuring accurate and complete documentation helps avoid processing delays and increases your chances of visa approval.

Which Visa is best for you: 189 or 190?

Choosing between the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa and the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa depends on your circumstances, points score, and flexibility preferences.

Choose the 189 Visa If:

• You do not want state nomination and prefer full independence.
• Your occupation is on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• You have a high points score (typically 85+ to be competitive).
• You want the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.

Choose the 190 Visa If:

• You are struggling to meet the points requirement (State nomination gives you 5 extra points).
• Your occupation is on a state’s skilled occupation list, even if it’s not on the MLTSSL.
• You are willing to commit to living in a specific state for at least two years.
• You want a faster invitation as state-nominated applications are prioritized.
• Both visas grant permanent residency, but the 189 visa offers more flexibility, while the 190 visa increases your chances of approval if you accept state nomination.

Case Studies and Real-Life Scenarios

• Sarah, a software engineer from Pakistan, has 95 points on the points test. She has a strong English proficiency score. Sarah chooses the Subclass 189 Visa because her high points give her a strong chance of receiving an invitation. She also prefers the freedom to live anywhere in Australia without being tied to a state.
• Maria, a registered nurse from the Philippines, wants to migrate quickly. She qualifies for both visas but knows that state-nominated visas are processed faster. Maria applies for a Subclass 190 Visa in South Australia, securing priority processing. She is happy to live in the state for two years to secure her visa approval.

FAQ’s

Can I apply for both 189 and 190 visa?

Yes, you can apply for both Subclass 189 and 190 visas by submitting separate EOIs in SkillSelect. If invited for both, you can choose the visa that best suits your needs.

How does the points system work for the 190 visa?

For the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa, you must score at least 65 points on the points-based system, which evaluates factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, education, and partner skills. Additionally, receiving state nomination adds 5 extra points, increasing your chances of meeting the required threshold.

Can I switch from a 190 visa to a 189 visa once I’m in Australia?

Yes, you can switch from a 190 visa to a 189 visa once you are in Australia by applying for a new 189 visa, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for the 189 visa.

What are the processing times for the 189 and 190 visas?

According to current information, the processing time for an Australian 189 visa (Skilled Independent) is typically between 6 to 12 months, while a 190 visa (Skilled Nominated) usually takes around 6 to 8 months, with the 190 generally processing faster due to state nomination involvement.