Skilled Migration Visas: Understanding the Difference Between Subclass 189 and Subclass 190
Migration: 22 October 2025
Author: Bao Ngo - Our People
Australia offers a range of skilled migration options for talented professionals who want to live and work here permanently. Two of the most common are the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190).
Both visas fall under the Australian Government’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program and are points-tested, meaning applicants are assessed on factors such as age, English language ability, qualifications, and work experience.
While they share some similarities, there are key differences, particularly around nomination requirements and where you can live once granted. Below, we explain both visa types in detail.
1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
What is the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)?
The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) allows invited skilled workers to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia. It’s designed for individuals who have skills in demand and can contribute to Australia’s economy without requiring sponsorship from an employer, family member, or state/territory government.
With this visa, you can:
- Stay in Australia permanently
- Work, study, and live anywhere in Australia
- Enrol in Medicare (Australia’s public health care system)
- Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
Stay period: Permanent, you become a permanent resident on the day your visa is granted.
Can I apply from inside or outside Australia?
Yes. You can apply for the 189 visa whether you are in or outside Australia, as long as you are not in immigration clearance at the time of application or decision.
If applying within Australia, you must hold a substantive visa or a bridging visa (A, B, or C). Otherwise, your application will not be processed.
Can I include my family?
Yes, you can include members of your family unit in your application either:
- When lodging your visa application; or
- After lodgement but before a decision is made.
Eligible family members can enjoy the same rights and benefits once granted.
What are the key requirements?
To apply for a Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), you must:
- Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Achieve at least 65 points on the points test
- Have your skills assessed as suitable for the nominated occupation
- Be invited by the Department of Home Affairs to apply
Once you’ve submitted your Expression of Interest (EOI) and received an invitation, your claimed points must be supported by evidence at the application stage.
If you score below 65, you won’t be invited to apply, but you can use tools such as an Eligibility Assessment or Self-Improvement Calculator to understand where you can improve your score.
How long can I stay in Australia with a 189 visa?
The visa is permanent, meaning you can stay indefinitely.
For citizenship purposes, your period of permanent residence starts:
- On the day your visa is granted (if in Australia); or
- When you first enter Australia on this visa (if outside Australia).
Is the Eligibility Assessment a visa application?
No. The Eligibility Assessment is not a visa application, it’s a preliminary tool that helps you check whether you may meet the eligibility requirements (minimum 65 points). It also provides insights and resources such as:
- A Skilled Occupation List
- A Self-Improvement Calculator
- A Next Steps Guide for applying for a skilled visa
This can help you prepare a stronger, more strategic application when ready to proceed.
Why does Australia seek skilled professionals?
Australia’s skilled migration program helps address critical skill shortages, particularly in industries and regions that lack qualified workers.
By attracting skilled professionals from around the world, the program:
- Strengthens the national economy
- Supports regional development
- Ensures employers can fill essential roles
- Promotes population growth in under-represented areas
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
What is the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)?
The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is a state-sponsored permanent visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government, such as Victoria.
This visa is ideal for applicants with an occupation in demand in a specific state who are willing to live and work there for a period of time.
Do I need to be working to apply?
No, there are no employment or work requirements to apply for Victorian nomination under subclass 190.
If you claim annual earnings in your Registration of Interest (ROI), you’ll need to provide evidence of skilled employment in Victoria (skill levels 1–3 per ANZSCO classification).
If you’re not currently working or are working in non-skilled employment, you can still apply, but you cannot claim earnings in your ROI.
Can I apply if I don’t live in Victoria?
If you are onshore, you must be living in Victoria to be selected for nomination. Onshore applicants living in other Australian states or territories are not eligible for Victorian nomination.
If you are offshore, you are eligible to apply for subclass 190 nomination, provided you are committed to living in Victoria after the visa is granted.
Where can I live and work?
Once granted, subclass 190 visa holders can live and work anywhere in Victoria, including Melbourne and regional areas. The visa is permanent, meaning you can later move elsewhere in Australia, though you are expected to live and work in Victoria for at least 2 years as part of your commitment to the nominating state.
How many points do I need?
You must score at least 65 points, including the 5 points awarded for state nomination.
Key Differences Between Subclass 189 and Subclass 190
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Choosing Between the 189 and 190 Visa
The 189 visa suits applicants who want flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia and meet the points threshold independently.
The 190 visa, meanwhile, offers a pathway for applicants with strong skills aligned with a state’s needs, particularly those willing to commit to living in that state.
Both are highly competitive and require careful preparation of documentation and points evidence.
Need Assistance with Your Skilled Visa Application?
Navigating Australia’s skilled migration process can be complex. A registered migration lawyer or agent can:
- Assess your eligibility
- Advise on points-testing strategies
- Prepare and lodge your EOI and visa application
- Liaise with the Department of Home Affairs and state authorities on your behalf
At Aitken Partners, our migration team assists skilled professionals from Australia and abroad to achieve permanent residency through the 189 and 190 visa programs.
Contact us on +61 3 8600 6000 to discuss your eligibility and next steps.