Overview: Two of Australia's Most Popular Skilled Migration Visas
If you're planning to migrate to Australia through the skilled migration pathway, chances are you've come across the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) and Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) visas. Both lead to Australian permanent residency, but they work differently. Choosing the right one depends on your points score, occupation, and lifestyle preferences.
Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent Visa
The Subclass 189 is a points-tested visa that requires no sponsorship from an employer or state/territory government. It offers maximum flexibility:
- Live and work anywhere in Australia
- No obligation to a specific employer or state
- Permanent residency granted immediately upon approval
- Available to skilled workers whose occupation appears on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
Minimum points required: 65 (but invitations typically go to 80+ due to competition)
Who it suits: High scorers, especially those with superior English, Australian work experience, or a Professional Year program completed.
Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 also leads to permanent residency, but it requires a nomination from an Australian state or territory government. In exchange for nomination, you receive 5 extra points on your points test — making it accessible to applicants who may not score high enough for a 189 invitation.
- Requires nomination from a state or territory
- You must intend to live and work in the nominating state for at least 2 years
- Permanent residency granted immediately upon approval
- Each state has its own occupation list and requirements — some occupations are easier to get nominated for in certain states
Minimum points required: 65 + 5 state nomination points = effectively 60 base points needed
Who it suits: Applicants who want PR but have a slightly lower base points score, or whose occupation is in demand in a specific state.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsor required? | No | Yes (state/territory) |
| Bonus points | None | +5 points for nomination |
| Where can you live? | Anywhere in Australia | Nominating state (2 years) |
| Residency type | Permanent | Permanent |
| Occupation list | MLTSSL | MLTSSL + STSOL (state-dependent) |
How to Decide Which Visa is Right for You
Ask yourself these questions:
- What is my points score? If you're scoring 90+ points, Subclass 189 could work. If you're between 65–85, explore state nomination for Subclass 190.
- Is my occupation on the MLTSSL? Subclass 189 is restricted to MLTSSL occupations. Some STSOL occupations can only access 190.
- Am I flexible about where I live? If you want to live in a specific city (such as Adelaide), a Subclass 190 state nomination from South Australia might be ideal.
- How competitive is my occupation? Some occupations receive invitations frequently; others rarely do. Check the latest invitation rounds on the Department of Home Affairs website.
South Australia's Subclass 190 Nomination
Living in Adelaide and interested in the 190 visa? South Australia has its own skilled occupation list and invites applicants to nominate through SAAS (South Australia's skilled migration program). As a bonus, Adelaide's lower cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne makes it an attractive destination for skilled migrants.
Get Expert Advice
Choosing between visas involves more than just points — it's about timing, your occupation's demand, and your life plans. The registered migration agents at Suvaansh Educational Services in Adelaide are here to give you honest, personalised guidance. Book your free consultation today.