What are the key differences between Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 Visas?

The main difference between Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas is state nomination. Subclass 189 does not need sponsorship from any Australian state or territory and allows you to live anywhere in Australia. Subclass 190 requires nomination from a state or territory government, and applicants are expected to live and work in that state for some time. Both visas offer permanent residency, but Subclass 190 gives 5 extra points, making it easier for some applicants to qualify.

Yes, Subclass 189 is a permanent residency visa. Once granted, you can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia without restrictions. You will get access to Medicare, Social Security benefits (after eligibility periods), and you can sponsor eligible family members. This visa also allows you to apply for Australian citizenship once you meet the residency requirements. It is one of the most flexible skilled migration visas because it does not require state or employer sponsorship.

Yes, Subclass 190 is also a permanent residency visa. It gives the same PR benefits as Subclass 189, including access to Medicare, work rights, and a pathway to Australian citizenship. The key difference is that Subclass 190 requires state or territory nomination. After getting the visa, applicants are expected to live and work in the nominating state for a certain period. However, legally, it is still a permanent visa from the first day.

No, state nomination is not required for the Subclass 189 visa. This visa is fully independent and is based only on your points score, occupation demand, skills assessment, and English proficiency. Because there is no state support, competition is very high, and applicants usually need strong points to receive an invitation. Subclass 189 is suitable for candidates who want full freedom to live anywhere in Australia.

State nomination is required for Subclass 190 because the visa is designed to meet specific workforce needs of Australian states and territories. Each state nominates skilled workers based on local labor shortages. In return, nominated applicants are expected to live and work in that state for some time. State nomination also helps applicants by giving 5 extra points, which improves their chances of receiving an invitation.

You receive 5 additional points for a state or territory nomination under the Subclass 190 visa. These extra points are added to your total points score in SkillSelect. This benefit is helpful for applicants who may not meet the required points for Subclass 189. The extra points can significantly improve your ranking and increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

The minimum points requirement for both Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas is 65 points. However, meeting the minimum score does not guarantee an invitation. Due to high competition, applicants often need much higher points to be selected. Factors such as English proficiency, skilled work experience, qualifications, partner skills, and state nomination (for Subclass 190) play an important role in improving your overall score.

Yes, Subclass 189 visa holders can live and work anywhere in Australia. There are no location restrictions or state obligations. You can choose any city or state based on your job opportunities or lifestyle preferences. This flexibility makes Subclass 189 very popular among skilled professionals. You can also change employers freely and access national benefits available to permanent residents.

Yes, Subclass 190 visa holders are expected to live and work in the nominating state or territory for a certain period, usually around two years. This commitment is not legally enforced but is strongly expected by the state government. Moving away immediately may affect future visa applications or sponsorship opportunities. The purpose of this requirement is to support workforce needs in that specific state.

For most applicants, Subclass 190 is easier to get than Subclass 189. This is because Subclass 190 provides 5 extra points through state nomination and has lower competition compared to Subclass 189. Subclass 189 is highly competitive and usually requires very high points. Applicants with moderate scores often have better chances through Subclass 190 if their occupation is in demand in a particular state.

Yes, from 2026 onwards, Subclass 189 invitation rounds are expected to be conducted in a more structured and regular manner. While the exact frequency depends on government planning levels, the process is now more predictable than before. Invitations are issued based on occupation demand, points ranking, and overall migration targets. This helps applicants plan their applications better and understand when invitations are likely to occur.

Occupation demand plays a very important role in Subclass 189 invitations. Applicants working in high-demand occupations such as healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education usually get higher priority. Even with high points, candidates in low-demand occupations may wait longer for an invitation. The Australian government regularly reviews labor market needs and adjusts invitation priorities accordingly to fill skill shortages.

Australian states select Subclass 190 candidates based on local workforce shortages. Each state has its own occupation list, eligibility criteria, and selection process. States usually consider factors like work experience, English level, settlement ability, and commitment to live in the state. Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest and, in many cases, a separate state nomination application before receiving an invitation.

Applicants must be under 45 years of age at the time they receive an invitation for both Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas. Age points decrease as you get older, so applying earlier improves your chances. If you turn 45 after submitting your Expression of Interest but before receiving an invitation, you will not be eligible for these visas.

Yes, a positive skills assessment is mandatory for both Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas. The assessment must be done by the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation. It confirms that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards. Without a valid skills assessment, you cannot submit a valid Expression of Interest or receive an invitation.

At a minimum, applicants must meet the Competent English level for both visas. This usually means achieving at least IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent scores in other approved English tests. Higher English scores give more points and greatly improve your chances of receiving an invitation. Many successful applicants score Proficient or Superior English to stay competitive.

Yes, Subclass 189 visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship once they meet the residency and other eligibility requirements. Generally, you must live in Australia for a certain number of years, including at least one year as a permanent resident. Citizenship allows you to vote, apply for an Australian passport, and enjoy full rights as an Australian citizen.

Yes, Subclass 190 visa holders can also apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements. The process and eligibility conditions are the same as for Subclass 189 visa holders. Once you have lived in Australia for the required period and meet character and language requirements, you can apply for citizenship regardless of the visa subclass you entered under.

Legally, Subclass 190 does not restrict you from working outside the nominating state. However, you are expected to live and work in that state for a reasonable period. Not following this commitment may affect your relationship with state authorities or future visa applications. Most applicants follow this expectation to maintain good compliance with migration guidelines.