If you are considering skilled migration to Australia, there are two subclasses of visa that are worth your consideration: the 189 Skilled Visa and the 190 Skilled Visa. Both visas provide pathways for skilled professionals to live and work in Australia on a permanent basis, but they differ in eligibility criteria, ongoing ob ligations and benefits, among other things. In this guide, we outline the key differences between Visa Subclass 189 and Visa Subclass 190 to assist you in making an informed choice that suits your objectives.

Overview of the 189 Visa Australia (Skilled Independent Visa)

The 189 is formally known as the Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189 and is a permanent visa based on a points-test. This visa allows skilled workers to live and work anywhere, without sponsorship from a state or employer.

Key Features of the 189 Skilled Visa

• Independent visa: No sponsorship required from state or territory.
• Permanent residency: Offers full permanent residence with access to Medicare, work rights, and education benefits.
• Freedom of location: Live and work in any Australian state or territory.
• Fast-track pathway: Often faster processing due to fewer bureaucratic steps.
• Eligible for citizenship: After fulfilling residency and legal criteria.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Visa Subclass 189, applicants must:

• Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
• Score at least 65 points on the points test.
• Be under 45 years of age.
• Have an occupation on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List).
• Provide a positive skills assessment.
• Meet English language proficiency standards.
• Receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs.

Overview of the 190 Visa Australia (Skilled Nominated Visa)

The Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190 is also a points-tested permanent visa, but it requires nomination by an Australian state or territory. This nomination contributes an extra 5 points to the applicant’s overall points score.

Key Features of the 190 Skilled Visa

• State nomination required: Applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government.
• Commitment to state: Must agree to live and work in the nominating state for at least two years.
• Permanent residency: Like the 189, it grants full permanent resident status.
• Extra points: State nomination adds 5 points, increasing chances of receiving an invitation.
• Occupation lists vary: Each state or territory has its own occupation list and criteria.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Visa Subclass 190, applicants must:

• Submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
• Score minimum 65 points (including 5 from state nomination).
• Be under 45 years of age.
• Have an occupation listed on the relevant state/territory occupation list.
• Obtain a positive skills assessment.
• Meet English language requirements.
• Receive nomination from a state/territory and an invitation to apply.

189 vs 190 Skilled Visa: Detailed Comparison

Sponsorship and Nomination

• 189 Skilled Visa: No nomination or sponsorship required. Purely points-based and independent.
• 190 Skilled Visa: State nomination required, and applicants must agree to reside in the nominating state.

Points Allocation

• Visa Subclass 189: Must earn at least 65 points independently.
• Visa Subclass 190: Gains 5 extra points from state nomination, making it ideal for applicants close to the threshold.

Geographic Flexibility

• 189 Visa Australia: Complete freedom to live and work in any part of Australia.
• 190 Visa Australia: Restricted to the nominating state or territory for an initial period, typically 2 years.

Occupation Lists

• 189 Skilled Visa: Limited to the MLTSSL.
• 190 Skilled Visa: Access to broader state-specific occupation lists, which may include occupations not on the MLTSSL.

Application Complexity

• Visa Subclass 189: Generally simpler and faster process due to fewer administrative steps.
• Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190: Involves state application processes, additional documents, and more complexity.

Invitation Chances

• 189 Visa: Highly competitive, especially for popular occupations.
• 190 Visa: Better chances due to lower points thresholds and support from states actively seeking talent.

Benefits of Each Visa Type

Why Choose the 189 Visa Australia?

• Ideal for professionals with high demand skills and strong points score.
• No geographic limitations after arrival.
• Simpler application proces s.
• Perfect for individuals who value mobility and flexibility.

Why Choose the 190 Visa Australia?

• Great for those needing a points boost to meet the threshold.
• Opens up more occupation opportunities via state lists.
• Preferred by applicants who have a connection to a specific state, such as having studied or worked there.
• Often shorter waiting time due to state-specific allocations.

Working With Trusted Migration Experts

For both Visas Subclass 189 and subclass 190, it can be exciting for migrants to take on the responsibilities of establishing a home in Australia. However, navigating the Australian migration system can be unimpressive. Professional migration services here in Adelaide can be the difference to understand the complexity of the Australian migration system. Therefore, a relationship with a skilled and dedicated immigration consultants Adelaide, like Migrate2Australia, will make sure that your application is complete, correct and your application complies without recourse to the changing regulations in the Australian immigration system.

At a trusted immigration agency Adelaide, we help you:

Assess your eligibility for both visas.

• Calculate your points score and recommend strategies to improve it.
• Assist with skills assessments, EOI submissions, and state nomination applications.
• Stay updated on the latest changes to occupation lists and visa rules.

Our expert migration services Adelaide offer end-to-end visa assistance, improving your chances of receiving an invitation and securing your Australian dream.

Conclusion

The choice between a Skilled Visa 189 and a Skilled Visa 190 depends on your particular situation. Where you apply directly and wish to have greater flexibility, the Visa Subclass 189 is a good pick. However, if you tend to be close to the points threshold or jobs in your profession appear heavily on state lists, Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190 would be the way to go.

Both these visas are a pathway to permanent residency, chances of being covered by healthcare and education, plus your biggest chance to apply to become an Australian citizen. By engaging professional immigration consultants Adelaide, you will be able to navigate the maze and realize the dreams.