Complete Guide to Australia’s Skilled Migration Visas
- synergymigration
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
If you’re planning to migrate to Australia based on your skills, three visa pathways stand out: the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491). Each visa type offers unique benefits, eligibility criteria, and pathways to Australian permanent residency. Below is a clear, detailed breakdown to help you understand which visa best suits your long-term goals.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
This visa lets invited workers with skills we need, to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.
Unique Features
Do not need a sponsor or nominator
Satisfy the points test (minimum 65) and be invited to apply
Be under 45 to be invited
Work and study anywhere in Australia
Skill or Qualification Requirements
Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
Have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
Meet minimum standards of English language proficiency
Who Is It For?
Professionals with occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and strong points-test scores.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The 190 visa offers an excellent PR pathway for applicants willing to be nominated by a specific Australian state or territory.
Unique Features
Have been nominated for this visa by an Australian state or territory government agency
Satisfy the points test (minimum 65) and be invited to apply
Be under 45 to be invited
Work and study anywhere in Australia or depend on the requirements of nominating Australian state or territory government agency
Skill or Qualification Requirements
Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
Have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
Meet minimum standards of English language proficiency
Who Is It For?
Applicants whose occupations appear on a state or territory occupation list and who meet the nomination criteria.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
The 491 visa is a temporary regional visa with the length of 5 years and with a clear pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 191) after 3 years from the time your visa is granted.
Unique Features
Have been nominated for this visa by an Australian state or territory government agency, or an eligible relative
Satisfy the points test (minimum 65) and be invited to apply
Be under 45 to be invited
Live, work and study in a designated regional area of Australia
Skill or Qualification Requirements
Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
Have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
Meet minimum standards of English language proficiency
189 vs 190 vs 491: Which One Should You Choose?
Visa | PR Status | Sponsorship Needed? | Location Requirements |
189 | Immediate PR | No | Live anywhere |
190 | Immediate PR | State/Territory | Live in nominating state |
491 | Provisional → PR | State or family sponsor | Must stay in regional area |
Your eligibility will depend on factors such as occupation, points score, English level, and where you wish to live.
At Synergy Migration Services, we provide expert guidance at every stage of the skilled migration process. Our Registered Migration Agent ensures your application meets the latest requirements and stands out in increasingly competitive invitation rounds. Book a consultation with us today and let our experienced team assess your eligibility, guide you toward the right visa, and help you map out your pathway to Australian permanent residency.
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