- Easy Aussie Migration
- September 13, 2025
Confused Between Visa 189 & Visa 190?
Are you dreaming of migrating to Australia permanently but unsure whether Visa Subclass 189 or Visa Subclass 190 is the right pathway for you? You’re not alone. Many skilled professionals looking to make Australia their new home often face this dilemma.
Both visas fall under Australia’s General Skilled Migration Visa (GSM) Program, yet they come with significant differences that can affect your residency, work rights, location flexibility, and even processing timelines.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- What Visa 189 and Visa 190 are
- Key differences between the two
- Eligibility criteria
- Pros and cons of each visa
- Tips for choosing the right one for your circumstances
What is Visa Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)?
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested permanent visa that allows skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia without needing sponsorship from a state, employer, or family member.
✅ Key Features:
- No sponsorship required
- Permanent residency
- Live and work anywhere in Australia
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
- Include family members (partner and dependent children)
What is Visa Subclass 190 (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. It is best suited for applicants whose occupations are in demand in a particular state.
✅ Key Features:
- Requires state/territory nomination
- Permanent residency
- Commitment to live in the nominating state for at least 2 years
- Pathway to citizenship
- Include family members
Key Differences Between Visa 189 and Visa 190
| Feature | Visa 189 | Visa 190 |
| Sponsorship Required | No | Yes – by a state/territory |
| Points Required (as of now) | Minimum 65 points (competitive selections start higher) | Minimum 65 points + 5 bonus points from nomination |
| Location Flexibility | Can live/work anywhere in Australia | Must live/work in nominating state for 2 years |
| Occupation Lists | MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) | MLTSSL + STSOL (Short-term Skilled Occupation List) |
| Processing Time | Often longer due to competition | Can be faster if state is actively inviting |
| Bonus Points | None | +5 points for nomination |
| Competition Level | Higher (no state help) | Slightly lower with state support |
| Job Offer Requirement | Not required | Sometimes helpful or required by some states |
Eligibility Criteria: 189 vs. 190
Both visas share similar basic eligibility requirements:
- Be under 45 years of age
- Have a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Meet the minimum points requirement (usually 65)
- Have competent English language skills
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
- Receive an invitation to apply
📌 Additional Requirements for Visa 190:
- Be nominated by a state or territory government
- Often, meet state-specific criteria, such as:
- Work experience in that state
- A job offer in the state
- Specific qualifications
- Commitment to live and work in that state
Pros & Cons of Visa 189 and 190
✳️ Visa 189: Pros
- Full flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia
- No obligation to any state or employer
- Competitive edge if you have in-demand qualifications
⚠️ Visa 189: Cons
- Highly competitive – harder to get an invitation
- Limited to occupations on the MLTSSL list only
✳️ Visa 190: Pros
- Easier to get invited due to state nomination
- +5 bonus points can push your score above the threshold
- Broader range of occupations (MLTSSL + STSOL)
⚠️ Visa 190: Cons
- Must commit to living in the nominating state for at least 2 years
- Subject to state-specific requirements, which can change frequently
- Less flexibility if you wish to move interstate quickly
How to Choose Between Visa 189 and 190
Here are some practical tips to help decide which visa suits you best:
1. Assess Your Points Score
- If your score is high (e.g., 90+), Visa 189 might be achievable.
- If you’re struggling to meet the cut-off, consider Visa 190 for those 5 extra points.
2. Check Occupation Lists
- If your occupation is only on STSOL, then Visa 190 is your only option.
- If it’s on both MLTSSL and STSOL, then you’re eligible for both visas.
3. Review State Nomination Criteria
- States like NSW, VIC, and QLD have different nomination requirements.
- Some require a job offer or prior work/study in the state.
4. Consider Your Lifestyle Preferences
- Want full freedom to move between cities or states? Go for 189.
- Willing to commit to a particular state and have links to it? 190 might be better.
Common Myths Debunked
❌ Myth 1: “Visa 190 is not permanent.”
Truth: Both Visa 189 and 190 are permanent residency visas.
❌ Myth 2: “You must stay in the nominated state forever with 190.”
Truth: You’re expected to stay for at least 2 years. After that, you can move freely.
❌ Myth 3: “State nomination guarantees a visa.”
Truth: Nomination only boosts your chances; you still need to meet the eligibility criteria and be invited.
Final Thoughts
Both Visa 189 and Visa 190 are excellent pathways to achieving permanent residency in Australia. Your choice should depend on:
- Your points score
- The occupation list your profession is on
- Your willingness to live in a particular state
- Your urgency or timeline for migration
If you’re still unsure, it’s highly recommended to consult a registered migration agent to get tailored advice based on your profile.
Need Help?
If you’re preparing for a GSM visa and need help with your EOI, skills assessment, or state nomination, consider working with a MARA-registered migration agent in Australia who can guide you through every step of the process.
