Which Skilled Visa Is Right for You? 189, 190, 491 & 191 Explained: A Complete Guide to Australia PR
Australia is one of the most popular destinations for skilled professionals looking to build a career and gain permanent residency (PR). If you’re considering migrating, it’s essential to understand the main skilled visa subclasses: Subclass 189, 190, 491, and 191. Each has different requirements, pathways, and benefits, so choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your migration journey.
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
The Subclass 189 visa is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an Australian state, territory, or employer.
Key features:
- Permanent residency upon grant.
- Eligibility requires an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Minimum 65 points on the Skilled Visa Points Test.
- Allows you to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
Best for: Skilled professionals who meet points requirements and do not require state nomination.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 visa is a points-tested permanent visa that requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.
Key features:
- Permanent residency upon grant.
- Nomination gives additional points toward your points test.
- Must commit to living in the nominating state for at least two years.
- Occupation must appear on the state’s skilled occupation list.
Best for: Professionals willing to live in a specific state and looking to increase their points for a PR invitation.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 491 visa is a provisional visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia.
Key features:
- Valid for 5 years, with a pathway to permanent residency via Subclass 191.
- Requires nomination by a state/territory or sponsorship by a relative living in a regional area.
- Occupation must appear on the Regional Occupation List.
- Provides points for regional living and state nomination.
Best for: Skilled workers targeting regional Australia and planning to convert to permanent residency after 3 years.
Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa
The Subclass 191 visa is a permanent residency visa for holders of the Subclass 491 visa.
Key features:
- Allows permanent residency after 3 years of regional work and residence on a 491 visa.
- Must meet income and residency requirements during the provisional period.
Best for: 491 visa holders ready to secure permanent residency after meeting regional work and residence obligations.
How to Choose the Right Visa
When deciding which visa is best for you, consider:
- Points score: Do you meet the minimum points test for 189 or 190?
- Location preference: Are you open to regional living (491) or want flexibility to live anywhere (189)?
- State nomination opportunities: Can a state/territory nomination increase your points?
- Long-term PR goals: Do you want immediate permanent residency (189/190) or a pathway through regional provisional visa (491 → 191)?
Choosing the right skilled visa can be complex, but understanding the differences between 189, 190, 491, and 191 visas will help you plan your migration journey strategically. Each visa offers unique pathways, and the right choice depends on your occupation, points, location preference, and long-term goals.
Need Expert Guidance? The Australian Visa Office team can help you assess your eligibility, choose the best visa subclass, and guide you through the entire application process.
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