Skilled migration to Australia
Points-tested skilled migration includes the independent subclass 189 route, state-nominated subclass 190 and provisional regional subclass 491. Compare the assessment, points, nomination and location requirements together before choosing which options to pursue.
Aarish Haider · Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2619656
Updated 2026-10-22 · General information · Official-source check 2026-10-22
Key facts
| Pathway | Sponsorship | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent | None required | Permanent |
| Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated | State or territory nomination | Permanent |
| Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional | State/territory or family sponsorship, regional area | Provisional, pathway to permanent residence |
Who this is relevant to
Relevant to people who have, or expect to have, a positive skills assessment and are comparing which points-tested route fits their situation.
Requirements
Begin with the occupation list for the intended visa, the authorised assessing body and the evidence needed for a suitable assessment. Then check age, English, points and any state or family-sponsorship requirements. Passing a minimum threshold does not ensure nomination, invitation or a visa grant.
Process
- Map actual qualifications and duties to the appropriate occupation and assessment.
- Check evidence for the relevant points categories and validity dates.
- Compare independent, state-nominated and regional routes against current requirements.
- Submit an accurate EOI and follow any separate state process; apply for the visa only after the required invitation.
Evidence
Build a dated evidence file for the EOI: qualifications, assessment outcome, English results, employment records and any partner or nomination claim. Keep visa expiry and lawful-status planning separate from EOI preparation.
Common issues
Do not treat a state priority list as overriding the national visa list, or an EOI as an application that creates lawful status. Choose claims you can prove and update the EOI when circumstances change.
Official sources
- Department of Home Affairs — Skilled visas
- Department of Home Affairs — Skilled Nominated visa (190)
- Department of Home Affairs — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (491)
- Department of Home Affairs — Points table for skilled visas
- Home Affairs — Expression of Interest in SkillSelect
- Department of Home Affairs — Skilled occupation lists
Related pages
- Australian migration services
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189): points-tested stream
- Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated visa
- Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa
- 189 vs 190 vs 491: the full picture
- The Australian points test, explained
- SkillSelect and the Expression of Interest process
- Skills assessment for Australian migration
- Contact Skilled Matrix Migration
- 189 vs 190: how the two pathways differ
- 189 vs 491: how the two pathways differ
Discuss your next step
Tell us what you need. We confirm the proposed scope, availability and applicable fees before you book.
Request a skilled migration consultation