Australia is an ideal choice if you’re looking forward to improving your career opportunities with a standard lifestyle. For skilled workers, the Australian government has provided two popular visas: the skilled independent subclass 189 and the skilled nominated visa subclass 190. These visas are specifically available for skilled applicants who are seeking permanent residency in Australia.
Both visas follow different eligibility criteria for their applicants to choose the right one for a successful procedure. In this article, learn the important factors required for these visas. It includes a quick introduction, eligibility requirements, benefits, and the key difference between 189 and 190 visas, along with some important considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Overview Of 189 VS 190 Visa Australia
The visas 189 and 190 are tailored to skilled migration in Australia, both based on point-tested qualifications for a smooth application process. These visas lead to permanent residency, which ensures applicants have access to full rights and services in Australia.
Skilled independent subclass 189
The 189 visa Australia gives you the freedom to live and work permanently as an official resident. You can independently travel around the country multiple times. Also, it is easy to find work and earn in AUD from anywhere in Australia.
Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190
The 190 visa Australia allows you to live and work in Australia, but it requires sponsorship eligibility for permanent residency. If you get eligible for citizenship, then you can travel freely from one region to another in Australia. Therefore, this visa requires extra qualifications to meet the eligibility requirements for applying for the application form.
Key Difference Between 189 And 190 Visa
The primary differences between the two visas lie in their nomination eligibility, flexibility, and accessibility. Thus, here are the key differences between the 189 and 190 skilled migration visas in Australia.
| Characteristics | 189 visa Australia | 190 visa Australia |
| Sponsorship | Not required | A nomination is crucial from an Australian state or territory |
| Processing time | Time duration is fast if invited | Longer time duration due to the nomination process |
| Point test | Minimum 65 points | Minimum points + 5 points from nomination |
| Occupation list | MLTSSL ( Medium and Long-term strategic skills list) | MLTSSL & Short-term skilled occupation list ( STSOL) |
| Location Flexibility | Live and work anywhere | For initial must live in the nominated state |
Step-By-Step Guide For Applying 189 & 190 Skilled Visa Australia
Follow the necessary procedures for applying for both 189 and 190 visa Australia, Here is a simple way through which easily and effectively lodge your application.
Step 1: Check the skilled occupation list to ensure your eligibility.
Step 2: Apply to the relevant assessing authority for occupation and provide your qualification documents.
Step 3: Qualify for an English language test from IELTS to prove your proficiency.
Step 4: Calculate your points from the official website’s visa calculator to avoid miscalculation.
Step 5: Choose your visa type and submit an EOI ( Expression of Interest.
Step 6: If you’re a 190 visa applicant meet the sponsored requirements from the Australian state or territory.
Step 7: Keep a track of your selection once you are shortlisted, you will receive an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 8: Apply for your visa, whether 189 or 190, within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
Step 9: During the confirmation period, complete your health and character checks.
Step 10: Once you submit an error free application with all the necessary documents attached, you will receive the visa.
Eligibility Requirements & Benefits: 189 & 190 Visa Australia
To apply for either visa 189 or 190, you must meet a certain point score and criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs in Australia. Both these visas are of the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program and are based on points-tested permanent residency visas designed for skilled professionals.
189 Visa Australia
To acquire skilled independent subclass 189, the efficient workers are not sponsored by an employer, state, or territory, therefore, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
- Requires English proficiency and qualification from IELTS.
- Occupation should be on the Medium and Long-term strategic skill list.
- Fulfil the positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
- Your Age should be under 45 years at the time of applying for the visa.
- Achieve a minimum of 65 points on the SkillSelect point test.
- You have to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
- Attach your health and character documents along with the application form.
Benefits Of Subclass 189 Visa
- Independent residency in Australia
- Freedom of nationwide mobility
- Official citizenship residency
190 Visa Australia
For applying Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190, you must be nominated by an Australian state or territory. It will help in increasing your chances of freely living and working in Australia. Along with the qualifications and experience, you must have:
- Obtain a qualification on the skilled occupation list relevant to the Australian procedures
- Competent in the English language from PTE or IELTS.
- Your age limit should be between 18 to 45 years.
- Score at least 65 points in the point test.
- You should be nominated by an Australian state or territory.
- Satisfy Australian medical checks and get character clearance.
- Submit an EOI to show your interest in the state nomination.
Benefits Of Subclass 190 Visa
- Accessibility to Medicare
- Extra 5 points from state nominations
- Settlement support from your sponsor
How Much Does It Cost For A Skilled Worker Visa Australia?
The cost for a worker skilled visa in Australia varies depending on the number of applicants applying for the application form. According to the latest updates, the base application charge for primary applicants is AUD $ 4,640. Whereas for child applicants below 18 years and above, the fee cost is between AUD $ 1, 160 to AUD $ 2,320.
There are other costs which may include fees for eligibility point tests, which include skills assessment, English language test, medicals, etc. Additionally, you should also know that certain countries may be subject to second installment charges for your family members with less functional English. Therefore, always be aware and updated of the latest news from the Department of Home Affairs websites to gain important information.
How To Decide The Right Skilled Worker Visa for Australia?
The best choice for a skilled worker Australia visa depends on your score in the point test, occupation, and location preferences. If your occupation is on MLTSSL with a high point without the requirement of a sponsorship, the 189 visa is suitable as it offers full independence to live and work in Australia.
However, if your occupation appears on a state-specific list and you are comfortable settling into a particular state and territory which a 190 visa for Australia is the right choice.
Conclusion- Registered Migration Agent Perth: One Stop Solution For Successful Visa Applications
By understanding the difference and eligibility of 189 and visa subclass 190, you can easily apply for the visas. However, choosing the most relevant one is difficult, but a registered migration agent in Perth can guide you with their expertise in choosing. Because a qualified immigration agent increases your chances for a smooth application process.


