🛂 Skilled Migration Visas: Key Differences Between 189, 190 and 491
- marketing46937
- Jun 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 6
Thinking of applying for skilled migration? The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program offers three key visa options: Subclass 189, 190, and 491. While all three are points-tested and designed for skilled workers, each has different eligibility criteria, pathways, and long-term benefits.
Whether you're aiming for permanent residency or planning your first step toward it, understanding how these visas differ is crucial for choosing the best option for your situation.
🧭 Overview of Australia’s Skilled Migration Visas
Australia’s GSM program addresses national skill shortages by attracting qualified workers through a points-based system. The three main visas under this program include:
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 190 – (State Sponsored) Skilled Nominated Visa
Subclass 491 – (State Sponsored) Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
All three require a positive skills assessment, English proficiency, and an occupation listed on Australia’s skilled occupation lists. However, they differ in terms of sponsorship, location requirements, and residency outcomes.
🏡 Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
The 189 visa grants permanent residency without requiring state or family sponsorship. It suits high-scoring applicants whose occupations are listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Key Points:
No sponsorship or nomination required
Suitable only for MLTSSL occupations
Competitive entry, with limited invitations
Applicants must score at least 65 points and receive an invitation via SkillSelect
With no ties to regional areas or state criteria, this visa offers maximum freedom—but fewer opportunities due to strict occupation ceilings and low invitation rounds.
🏙️ Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Also a permanent visa, the 190 requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state sets its own criteria based on workforce needs, which may include occupation availability, work experience, or local study requirements.
Key Points:
State or territory nomination required
Accepts both MLTSSL and Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) occupations
Easier to obtain than 189, but includes location conditions for a set time
Applicants must meet specific state-based nomination criteria
Some states may require minimum salary*
State-nominated applicants benefit from higher invitation chances, especially in priority industries like health, trades, and engineering.
🌄 Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
This 5-year provisional visa supports skilled workers willing to live and work in regional areas. It requires either state nomination or sponsorship by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area.
Key Points:
Regional commitment required for at least 3 years
Pathway to permanent residency via Subclass 191
Broader occupation access through MLTSSL, STSOL & Regional Occupation List (ROL).
Some states may require minimum salary*
The 491 visa offers a generous occupation pool and faster processing compared to 189 and 190, making it a strategic entry point for skilled migrants open to regional relocation.
Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
Visa Type | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional (5 years) |
Sponsorship Required | No | State/Territory | State/Territory or Eligible Family Member |
Occupation List | MLTSSL only | MLTSSL, STSOL | MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL |
Points Tested | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Location Requirement | None | Live in nominating state | Live in regional area |
PR Pathway | Direct | Direct | After 3 years via Subclass 191 |
⏳ Processing & Invitations
The Department of Home Affairs issues invitations for Subclass 189 and family-sponsored 491 visas based on EOI rankings and occupation ceilings. These rounds occur quarterly and are highly competitive.
State and territory governments manage nominations for 190 and 491 visas through their own application processes. States often update their occupation lists and nomination criteria, so regular checks are essential.
💡 Choosing the Right Skilled Visa
Choosing between Subclass 189, 190, and 491 depends on your occupation, points score, and willingness to relocate. While 189 offers flexibility, it’s also the most competitive. The 190 provides a clear path to PR through state support, and the 491 opens the door to migrants ready to settle in regional Australia.
If you're unsure about which visa suits your background, our migration team can guide you through the process. We have helped thousands of clients apply for their 190, 491, and 189 visas!
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