Australia’s Skilled Migration Program is a primary pathway for skilled individuals looking to establish a new life in Australia. Designed to attract qualified professionals in high-demand occupations, the program includes several visa subclasses tailored to various needs and circumstances. We’ll cover the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa), Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa), and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa), each offering a unique route to Australian residency.
Overview of Australian Skilled Migration Visas
The Australian government’s Skilled Migration Program is a point-based system focused on filling skill shortages in sectors like healthcare, engineering, and IT. Here’s a snapshot of each visa type:
- Subclass 189: A skilled independent visa that doesn’t require sponsorship, allowing holders to live and work anywhere in Australia.
- Subclass 190: Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory, with benefits including additional points for nomination.
- Subclass 491: Focused on regional Australia, this visa requires state/territory nomination or family sponsorship and includes incentives to encourage regional settlement.
Let’s take a closer look at each visa type, its requirements, and benefits.
People also read: How to Apply for Australia Skilled Regional Visas
1. Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
Overview
The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent visa designed for skilled workers who don’t require sponsorship from an employer, family member, or state. It allows visa holders to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
- Occupation: Must be listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Points Test: Minimum of 65 points, assessed on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
- Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority.
- Age Limit: Must be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
- English Proficiency: Required level of English, often at a “competent” level or higher, depending on points needed.
Application Process
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect, a system used to manage skilled migration applications.
- Invitation to Apply: If selected, an invitation to apply will be issued.
- Visa Application: Submit a full application with supporting documents.
- Processing Time: Typically between 6-8 months, but times may vary.
Benefits of the 189 Visa
- Permanent Residency: Immediate permanent residency with work and study rights.
- Flexibility: No geographic limitations, allowing the holder to live and work in any part of Australia.
- Family Benefits: Allows family members to be included in the application, with similar residency rights.
People also read: 190 Visa Application Cost: A Complete Guide
2. Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Overview
The Subclass 190 visa provides a pathway for skilled individuals nominated by an Australian state or territory. It offers permanent residency, with the condition that applicants live and work in the nominating region for at least two years.
Eligibility Criteria
- State or Territory Nomination: Must receive nomination from a state or territory government.
- Occupation: Should be on the state’s occupation list, which may vary by region.
- Points Test: A minimum of 65 points, with additional points for state nomination.
- Skills Assessment: Positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation.
- Age and English Proficiency: Same as Subclass 189, under 45 and competent English.
Application Process
- Expression of Interest: Submit an EOI through SkillSelect, specifying the state or territory of interest.
- Nomination Application: Apply for nomination with the chosen state/territory if invited.
- Visa Application: Once nominated and invited, submit the visa application.
- Processing Time: Similar to the 189 visa, typically within 6-8 months.
Benefits of the 190 Visa
- Permanent Residency: Grants immediate permanent residency.
- Additional Points: Nomination adds 5 points, improving eligibility.
- State Support: Access to certain state-based programs and incentives.
- Obligation to Stay: Encourages settlement in regions needing skilled workers.
3. Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
Overview
Subclass 491 is a provisional visa geared towards skilled workers willing to live in regional Australia. This visa requires either state/territory nomination or sponsorship by a qualifying family member living in a designated regional area.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nomination or Sponsorship: Must be nominated by a regional state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member.
- Occupation: Listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List for regional areas.
- Points Test: A minimum of 65 points.
- Skills Assessment: Positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
- Age and English Proficiency: Same as other subclasses, under 45 and competent English.
Application Process
- Expression of Interest: Submit an EOI via SkillSelect, expressing interest in a regional visa.
- Nomination/Sponsorship: Obtain nomination or family sponsorship.
- Visa Application: After receiving an invitation, submit the visa application with required documents.
- Processing Time: Typically processed within 6-12 months.
Benefits of the 491 Visa
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Can apply for permanent residency (Subclass 191) after three years in a designated area.
- Work Rights: Full working rights in regional Australia.
- Incentives for Regional Living: Encourages migrants to settle and contribute to regional growth.
- Additional Points: Receives 15 additional points, making it easier to meet the points threshold.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional (Pathway to PR) |
| Nomination Required | No | Yes (State/Territory) | Yes (State/Territory or Family Sponsorship) |
| Points for Nomination | None | +5 | +15 |
| Geographic Restrictions | None | State/Territory-specific | Regional Australia |
| PR Pathway | Immediate | Immediate | After 3 years in a regional area |
Each of these visas serves different circumstances, providing pathways to Australian residency tailored to various needs. Whether you qualify for the independent 189 visa, the nominated 190 visa, or the regional-focused 491 visa, Australia offers numerous opportunities for skilled migrants. If you’re considering moving to Australia and need expert guidance, reach out to our team to discuss your options and begin your application process.
