Table of Contents
- Understanding the Basics
- Key Differences at a Glance
- Subclass 189 – Who Should Consider It?
- Subclass 190 – Why Nomination May Be Worth It
- Subclass 491 – The Regional Route to PR
- Lifestyle Considerations
- Which One Is Right for You?
Subclass 189 vs 190 vs 491 - Which Skilled Visa is Right for You?
Migrating to Australia is a dream for many skilled professionals. But when it comes to permanent residency, the choices can feel overwhelming. Three of the most talked-about visas are the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa), Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa), and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa).
While they all belong to the skilled migration program, they have very different rules, benefits, and obligations. This blog breaks down the differences, adds real-life context, and helps you decide which one may be the right fit for your circumstances.
Understanding the Basics
Before comparing, let’s briefly introduce each visa.
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
This visa is for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state/territory, or a family member. It grants permanent residency directly, and holders can live and work anywhere in Australia.Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
A state or territory government nominates you for this visa. It also offers permanent residency, but in return, you commit to living and working in the nominating state or territory for at least two years.Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
This is a temporary visa valid for five years, requiring you to live and work in a designated regional area. After three years of meeting the income and residency conditions, you can apply for permanent residency via the Subclass 191 visa.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
| Residency Type | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional (leads to PR) |
| Location Flexibility | Anywhere in Australia | Must live in nominating state | Must live in regional area |
| Points Boost | No extra points | +5 points from state | +15 points from state/family |
| Processing Priority | Medium | Higher due to state nomination | Often higher for regional demand |
| PR Pathway | Direct | Direct | Indirect via Subclass 191 |
Subclass 189 – Who Should Consider It?
The 189 visa is the most independent option. No state sponsorship, no regional obligation, and no strings attached. But it’s also one of the hardest to get due to very high competition.
Advantages:
• Immediate permanent residency.
• Freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.
• No obligations to a particular state or region.
Challenges:
• Requires a higher points score (often 90+ in recent years).
• Very competitive—only occupations in critical demand stand a good chance.
• Invitations are limited and irregular.
Best suited for:
Highly skilled professionals in high-demand occupations (such as healthcare, IT, and engineering) who can score high without nomination points.
Subclass 190 – Why Nomination May Be Worth It
If you don’t quite meet the invitation cut-off for the 189 visa, the 190 can be an excellent alternative. States nominate candidates based on their local labor needs, giving you an extra 5 points.
Advantages:
• Grants permanent residency.
• Lower points threshold compared to 189 due to the +5 points.
• States often prioritize occupations that are not on the national list but are in shortage locally.
Obligations:
• Commit to living and working in the nominating state for two years (not legally binding, but strongly expected).
• Each state has its own eligibility list and criteria.
Best suited for:
• Professionals willing to settle in a specific state and who are open to meeting state-specific requirements.
Subclass 491 – The Regional Route to PR
This visa was designed to encourage migration to regional Australia. While it’s provisional, it can be a stepping stone to permanent residency if conditions are met.
Advantages:
• Offers a generous 15-point boost, making it more achievable.
• Broader list of eligible occupations compared to 189 and 190.
• Encourages settlement in growing regional areas with strong job prospects.
Obligations:
• Must live and work in a designated regional area for at least three years.
• Must meet minimum income thresholds to qualify for the permanent Subclass 191.
• Provisional visa (5 years) before transitioning to permanent residency.
Best suited for:
Applicants with lower points or in occupations more in demand in regional areas, who are open to living outside major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Lifestyle Considerations
Choosing between these visas isn’t just about points—it’s also about lifestyle.
• If you want maximum freedom, Subclass 189 is unmatched.
• If you’re happy to commit to a specific state and enjoy stability, Subclass 190 could suit you.
• If you’re open to regional living, smaller communities, and possibly better job opportunities in less crowded markets, Subclass 491 can be rewarding.
The Points Factor
Your points score often decides which visa you’re most likely to get:
80–95 points or higher: Strong chance for 189.
65–85 points: More realistic to aim for 190 or 491.
Below 70 points: 491 with 15 extra points may be your best bet.
Which One Is Right for You?
Think about three key questions:
1. How many points can you realistically claim?
2. Are you open to state or regional commitments?
3. Is immediate permanent residency essential, or are you comfortable with a step-by-step approach?
Your answers to these questions often point clearly to the visa that best matches your situation.
Final Thoughts
Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas are all valuable options under Australia’s skilled migration program. The “best” one depends less on prestige and more on your personal circumstances, career goals, and lifestyle preferences.
No matter which visa you aim for, staying updated on current occupation lists and state nomination rules is essential. Immigration policies shift regularly, so timing and preparation can make all the difference.
