Skilled Independent Visa 189 vs Skilled Nominated Visa 190: Which One Suits You?

What You’ll Learn

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between Australia’s Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which visa aligns best with your professional aspirations and lifestyle preferences.

Quick Comparison Table

Overview of Skilled Independent Visa (189)

The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is designed for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, state, or family member. This visa allows you to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.

Pros

– **Unrestricted Mobility**: Live and work anywhere in Australia without any geographic restrictions.
– **Direct Pathway to Permanent Residency**: No need for state or employer sponsorship.
– **Access to Benefits**: Eligible for Medicare and other social services.

Cons

– **High Competition**: Limited to occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which can be highly competitive.
– **Points Requirement**: Must score at least 65 points on the points test, which may be challenging for some applicants.

Overview of Skilled Nominated Visa (190)

The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-tested visa that requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. This visa allows you to live and work permanently in Australia, with a commitment to the nominating state or territory.

Pros

– **Additional Points**: State nomination provides an extra 5 points, increasing your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
– **Broader Occupation Lists**: Includes occupations on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and state-specific lists, offering more opportunities.
– **Pathway to Permanent Residency**: Similar to the Subclass 189 visa, it leads to permanent residency.

Cons

– **Residency Obligation**: Must live and work in the nominating state or territory for at least two years.
– **State-Specific Criteria**: Each state or territory has its own occupation lists and eligibility criteria, which can vary.

Side-by-Side Breakdown

Nomination Requirement

– **Subclass 189**: No nomination required, offering greater flexibility in choosing your place of residence and work.
– **Subclass 190**: Requires nomination by a state or territory government, with a commitment to live and work in the nominating region for at least two years.

Points System and Occupation Lists

– **Subclass 189**: Requires a minimum of 65 points, with occupations limited to the MLTSSL.
– **Subclass 190**: Also requires a minimum of 65 points, plus an additional 5 points for state nomination. Occupations can be on the MLTSSL, STSOL, or state-specific lists.

Residency Obligations

– **Subclass 189**: No residency obligations; you can live and work anywhere in Australia.
– **Subclass 190**: Must live and work in the nominating state or territory for at least two years.

Processing Times and Costs

Processing times and costs can vary for both visas. It’s advisable to consult official sources for the most current information.

Application Process and Complexity

– **Subclass 189**: Involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), receiving an invitation, and then applying.
– **Subclass 190**: Involves submitting an EOI, obtaining state nomination, receiving an invitation, and then applying.

Benefits and Limitations

– **Subclass 189**: Offers unrestricted mobility within Australia but is limited to occupations on the MLTSSL.
– **Subclass 190**: Provides a pathway to permanent residency with a commitment to a specific region but requires state nomination and residency obligations.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice between the Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas should align with your professional qualifications, career goals, and lifestyle preferences.

– **Best for Independent Professionals**: If you have a high points score, an occupation on the MLTSSL, and prefer the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia, the Subclass 189 visa may be the best fit.

– **Best for Regionally Committed Professionals**: If your occupation is on the STSOL or a state-specific list, and you’re willing to commit to living and working in a specific state or territory for at least two years, the Subclass 190 visa could be more suitable.

Skilled Independent Visa (189) vs Skilled Nominated Visa (190): The Final Verdict

| Category | Skilled Independent Visa (189) | Skilled Nominated Visa (190) |
|——————————|——————————-|——————————|
| **Best for Beginners** | Yes | No |
| **Best for Power Users** | No | Yes |
| **Best Value** | Yes | Yes |

Findings and Recap

Both the Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas offer pathways to permanent residency in Australia, each with its own set of requirements and benefits. Your decision should be based on your individual circumstances, including your occupation, points score, and willingness to commit to a specific region.

Related reading: Understanding Australia’s Skilled Migration Program

AI Image Prompt: A split-screen image showing a professional working in a bustling cityscape on one side and a serene regional Australian landscape on the other, symbolizing the choice between the Skilled Independent Visa (189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (190).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Skilled Independent Visa (189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (190)?

The primary distinction lies in the nomination requirement. The Subclass 189 visa does not require state or territory nomination, offering applicants the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia. In contrast, the Subclass 190 visa necessitates nomination by an Australian state or territory government, which may come with specific residency obligations. ([qldmigrationpractice.com](https://qldmigrationpractice.com/skilled-independant-and-nominated-visa-189-190/?utm_source=openai))

What are the occupation list requirements for each visa?

For the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must have an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The Subclass 190 visa allows occupations from both the MLTSSL and the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), and may also include state-specific occupation lists, providing a broader range of eligible occupations. ([qldmigrationpractice.com](https://qldmigrationpractice.com/skilled-independant-and-nominated-visa-189-190/?utm_source=openai))

How does the points-based system work for these visas?

Both visas require a minimum of 65 points on the points test, which evaluates factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and education. The Subclass 190 visa offers an additional 5 points for state or territory nomination, potentially making it more accessible for applicants who may not meet the threshold for the Subclass 189 visa. ([qldmigrationpractice.com](https://qldmigrationpractice.com/skilled-independant-and-nominated-visa-189-190/?utm_source=openai))

Are there any residency obligations associated with these visas?

The Subclass 189 visa allows holders to live and work anywhere in Australia without restrictions. Conversely, the Subclass 190 visa typically requires holders to live and work in the nominating state or territory for at least two years, as part of the nomination agreement. ([qldmigrationpractice.com](https://qldmigrationpractice.com/skilled-independant-and-nominated-visa-189-190/?utm_source=openai))

Which visa is more suitable for applicants seeking flexibility in location?

The Subclass 189 visa is ideal for applicants who prefer the freedom to choose their place of residence and employment anywhere in Australia, as it does not have state or territory nomination requirements. ([qldmigrationpractice.com](https://qldmigrationpractice.com/skilled-independant-and-nominated-visa-189-190/?utm_source=openai))

Can both visas lead to Australian citizenship?

Yes, both the Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas provide a pathway to Australian citizenship, provided you meet the residency and character requirements. ([qldmigrationpractice.com](https://qldmigrationpractice.com/skilled-independant-and-nominated-visa-189-190/?utm_source=openai))

How long does it take to process these visa applications?

Processing times can vary based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications. However, both visas typically have processing times ranging from 6 to 12 months. It’s advisable to check the latest processing times on the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website. ([qldmigrationpractice.com](https://qldmigrationpractice.com/skilled-independant-and-nominated-visa-189-190/?utm_source=openai))

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