If you are intending to establish a future in Australia through skilled migration, it is important to know the difference between 190 and 189 visa. These two visas are classified under the skilled migration program of Australia, and they provide permanent residence with different conditions, benefits and pathways.
Choosing the right option can shape not only your visa approval but also your chances of visa, as well as where and how you live and work in Australia. Continue reading the blog to learn everything in a clear and useful way so you can choose the path that works best for you.
What Is A 189 visa?
The skilled independent visa subclass 189 is a points-based permanent visa category that is made for skilled workers who do not need sponsorship. It is among the most favoured options of skilled independent visa pathways.
Under the 189 visa, the applicants are chosen according to their skills, qualifications and points score. Employer sponsorship and state nomination are not required, and therefore, it is a flexible option.
Key Features of 189 Visa:
- Grants 189 permanent residency from day one
- Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia
- Based purely on merit and points ranking
- No requirement for a skilled sponsorship visa Australia
- Requires an invitation through SkillSelect
This visa suits applicants with strong profiles who can meet competitive points thresholds without relying on state support.
Also Read: Australia 189 Visa Processing Time: Complete Guide
What Is A 190 visa?
The skilled independent visa 190 is a state-nominated visa for skilled labourers. Unlike the 189 visa, this pathway requires nomination from an Australian state or territory.
The visa 190 is also a permanent visa, but with an extra commitment to reside and work in the nominating state for a specific period.
Key Features of 190 Visa:
- Permanent residency is similar to the 189 visa
- Requires nomination by a state or territory government
- Adds extra points to your profile
- Encourages settlement in specific regions
- Offers more accessible pathways for some occupations
This visa is best suited for candidates who might not have high points requirements, but can take advantage of state nomination.
Difference Between 190 and 189 visa
Understanding the difference between 190 and 189 visa becomes easier when you compare them side by side:
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 |
| Visa Type | Skilled independent visa 189 | Skilled independent visa 190 |
| Sponsorship | Not required | State nomination required |
| Residency | Permanent | Permanent |
| Work Flexibility | Anywhere in Australia | Preferably in the nominating state |
| Points Requirement | Higher | Lower due to nomination points |
| Invitation | Based on merit | Based on state demand |
| Obligation | No obligation to a state | Commitment to the state/territory |
| Processing Priority | Competitive | Often faster due to nomination |
This table clearly highlights how the difference between 190 and 189 visas lies in flexibility versus support.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply For The 189 Visa Australia
To apply under the subclass 189, you have to satisfy some requirements for skilled migration Australia.
1. Receive Invitation to Apply
You must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation through SkillSelect. Without an invitation, you cannot proceed.
2. Age Criteria
At the time of invitation, applicants must be less than 45 years old. If you get the invitation and then turn 45, you can still apply for the visa.
3. Pass The Suitable Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment is mandatory for your nominated occupation. This ensures your qualifications match Australian standards.
4. Minimum Score
You must score at least 65 points. However, higher scores are typically required due to competition.
5. Health and Character Requirement
You must meet health standards and provide police clearance certificates. This ensures you meet Australia’s migration integrity requirements.
The 189 visa requirements are strict because this visa does not rely on any external support, like state nomination.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply For The 190 visa Australia
The visa subclass 190 has slightly different eligibility criteria, mainly due to state involvement.
1. Invitation to Apply
You must receive an invitation after securing a nomination from a state or territory.
2. Age Criteria
- Age between 18-25: 25 points
- Age between 25- 33: 30 points
- Age between 33-40- 25 points
- Age between 40-45- 15 points
3. English Language Skill Criteria
Applicants must demonstrate competent English. Higher proficiency can improve your chances of nomination.
4. Experience In Skilled Employment
Relevant work experience in your nominated occupation is essential. Some states may have specific requirements based on demand.
Compared to the skilled independent visa 189, the visa 190 offers a slightly more flexible pathway due to state support.
Documents Required For 189 and 190 Visa Application
Having the right papers ready is very important when applying for the subclass 189 or the subclass 190 visa. Both visas are for skilled migration Australia, but the paperwork is mostly the same, with a few differences depending on the state that nominated you.
Common Documents for Both Visas:
- Valid passport
- Skills assessment report
- English language test results (IELTS/PTE)
- Expression of Interest (EOI) submission details
- Educational qualifications and transcripts
- Work experience letters and references
- Updated resume or CV
- Health examination reports
- Police clearance certificates
Additional Documents for 190 Visa:
- State nomination approval
- Proof of commitment to live in the nominating state
- Additional documents requested by specific states
Submitting full and proper documents minimises the time wastage and helps in reinforcing your application, particularly in the case of competitive visas such as the 189 and the 190 visa.
Processing Time Of 189 and 190 Visa
For effective migration planning, you need to know how long it takes to process the 189 and 190 visas. Depending on the application details, the paperwork, and the demand, timelines can change. Knowing these things helps applicants set realistic goals and get ready for them.
| Visa | 50% Application | 90% Application |
| 189 Visa (Points-Tested) | 4 Months | 6 Months |
| 190 Visa | 10 Months | 15 Months |
Also Read: How Long Does Australian Skilled Migration Visa Processing Take?
190 vs 189 – Which One Should You Apply For?
The decision between these two choices is based on your profile and long-term goals. The difference between 190 and 189 visa becomes clearer when you evaluate your situation. If you have a high points score and a strong occupation profile, the subclass 189 offers unmatched freedom. You can live and work anywhere without restrictions.
However, if your points are lower, or your occupation is required in particular states, the visa subclass 190 proves an appropriate option. State nomination may give you a better chance of getting an invitation.
The 189 visa is better for you if:
- The 5 points are not necessary because you already have a high enough points score to be competitive.
- You desire to be totally free to live and work anywhere in Australia from the first day.
- Your job is on the MLTSSL and has high invitation cut-offs.
- You do not want to serve two years in a particular state.
The 190 visa is better for you if:
- Your points are marginal, and the additional 5 points will assist you in getting an invitation.
- You are not in the MLTSSL but in a list of skilled occupations of a state.
- You are willing to reside in a certain state during the first two years.
- You want to have a better chance of getting an invitation sooner rather than later, when the cut-off is high.
In many cases, applicants submit EOIs for both visas to maximise their chances. By choosing a reliable immigration agent Perth, you can find out which visa suits you best.
Conclusion
The difference between 190 and 189 visas ultimately comes down to independence versus support. The 189 visa offers greater freedom but demands higher points, while the 190 visa provides a more accessible pathway through state nomination.
Choosing the right option depends on your eligibility, career goals, and flexibility. Take time to assess your profile carefully or consult a visa consultant Perth, to make an informed decision.
