189 vs 190 Visa, Which One is The Best? Lets Explore the Difference – Australia’s immigration system designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the country’s economy and fill critical skill shortages. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) become quite popular among professionals whose seeking permanent residency. These visas are belongs to Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program. Which assesses applicants based on factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, and English language proficiency.
The Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas share many similarities, including their final goal of granting permanent residency. However, they also have distinct differences that can significantly impact an applicant’s decision on which visa to pursue. Understanding these differences is crucial for prospective migrants to ensure they choose the pathway that best aligns with their personal circumstances, professional qualifications, and long-term goals.
189 vs 190 Visa, Which One is The Best? Lets Explore the Difference
The Subclass 189 visa is a fully independent visa that does not require sponsorship by an employer, state, or territory. This independence provides a high degree of flexibility, allowing visa holders to live and work anywhere in Australia. On the other hand, the Subclass 190 visa requires nomination by a state or territory government, which may come with specific obligations such as committing to live and work in the nominating state for a certain period. This visa is designed to address regional skill shortages and support local economic needs.
In this article, we will explore the key differences between the Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas, including their eligibility requirements, points test variations, application processes, residency and work obligations, and pathways to citizenship. By examining these factors in detail, we aim to provide a comprehensive comparison that will help skilled workers make an informed decision about which visa best suits their needs.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Giving a highlight of 189 vs 190 visa program and benefits is quite easy for me. The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a points-tested visa which meant for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. This visa allows the holder to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia, offering significant flexibility and independence.
The Subclass 189 visa grants permanent residency to successful applicants, allowing them to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely. This visa operates on a points-based system where applicants must score at least 65 points based on various factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, and English language proficiency. Unlike other visas that require sponsorship or nomination. The Subclass 189 visa does not require applicants to be sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member.
To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Submit an EOI through the Skill Select system.
- Achieve a minimum of 65 points in the points test which assesses according to some factors.
- Your age must under 45 years old by the time of applying.
- Have a nominated occupation that is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Obtain a suitable skills assessment for the nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority.
- You will need English language profiency, typically through an approved English language test such as IELTS, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT.
The Subclass 189 visa offers some benefits same as citizen of Aussie in which:
- Visa holders can live and work in any part of Australia without any regional restrictions.
- Permanent residents are eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public health care system.
- Visa holders and their family members can pursue educational opportunities at local student rates.
- After a waiting period, permanent residents may be eligible for certain social security benefits.
- This visa is a pathway to Australian citizenship, providing long-term stability and additional rights.
In conclusion, The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is an excellent option for skilled workers seeking the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia without the need for sponsorship. Its points-based selection system ensures that only the most qualified applicants are invited, promoting a high standard of skilled migration to Australia.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Let us continue 189 vs 190 Visa by read the explanation of skilled nominated visa. Subclass 190 Visa is a program meant for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. This visa allows the holder to live and work permanently in Australia with an emphasis on supporting regional skill shortages and local economic needs.
The Subclass 190 visa grants permanent residency to successful applicants, allowing them to live, work, and study anywhere in Aussie indefinitely. To apply 190 Visa Applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government which aligns with regional labor market needs.
More interesting, Holders of this visa can eventually apply for Australian citizenship once they meet the residency and other requirements set by the Australian government. Even more, we can include eligible family members in our application. It means granting them the same rights and benefits as the primary applicant.
Comparison of the 189 and 190 Visas in Australia
| Feature | Subclass 189 Visa | Subclass 190 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsorship | Not required | Required from an Australian state or territory government |
| Occupation List | MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) | MLTSSL or STSOL (Short-term Skilled Occupation List), depending on the state/territory |
| Points Test | Minimum 65 points | Minimum 65 points, with additional 5 points for nomination |
| Age Limit | Under 45 years at the time of invitation | Under 45 years at the time of invitation |
| English Language | Must meet proficiency requirements | Must meet proficiency requirements |
| Skills Assessment | Required for the nominated occupation | Required for the nominated occupation |
| Expression of Interest (EOI) | Submitted via SkillSelect | Submitted via SkillSelect, indicating interest in specific states/territories |
| Nomination Requirement | None | Must receive nomination from a state or territory government |
| Application Process | 1. Submit EOI<br>2. Receive invitation<br>3. Apply within 60 days | 1. Submit EOI<br>2. Receive nomination<br>3. Receive invitation<br>4. Apply within 60 days |
| Residency Obligations | Can live and work anywhere in Australia | Expected to live and work in the nominating state or territory for a specified period (typically 2 years) |
| Flexibility | High, no regional commitments | Moderate, with regional commitments |
| Pathway to Citizenship | Eligible after meeting residency requirements | Eligible after meeting residency requirements |
The Subclass 189 visa offers greater flexibility and independence for skilled workers who meet the points test requirements without needing sponsorship or nomination. It is ideal for individuals who prefer the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Subclass 190 visa, while also offering permanent residency, requires nomination by a state or territory, which may impose specific obligations such as residing in the nominating region for a set period. This visa can be advantageous for applicants who benefit from the additional points provided by the nomination and are willing to commit to supporting the regional needs of the nominating state or territory.
How to Choose The Right Visa for Permanent Resident
Selecting the appropriate visa between the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) depends on several factors, including your qualifications, preferences, and long-term goals.
Start by calculating your points score based on factors such as age, work experience, qualifications, and English language proficiency. If your points score meets or exceeds 65 points without any additional points from state or territory nomination, the Subclass 189 visa might be a viable option. If you need the additional 5 points from state or territory nomination to meet the threshold, consider to choose Subclass 190 visa.
Check again the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). The Subclass 189 visa requires your occupation to be on the MLTSSL, whereas the Subclass 190 visa allows for occupations on either list, depending on state/territory requirements.
The Subclass 189 visa offers the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia. If you value this flexibility and do not want to be tied to a specific state or territory, the Subclass 189 visa is preferable. The Subclass 190 visa requires a commitment to live and work in the nominating state or territory for a specified period (usually two years). If you are open to this commitment and have a preference for living in a particular region, the Subclass 190 visa can be suitable.
Each state and territory has specific nomination criteria, which may include particular skills in demand, work experience in certain industries, or a commitment to live in regional areas. Research the nomination requirements of the states/territories you are interested in. If you are close to the points threshold but need a boost, the 5 additional points from state or territory nomination under the Subclass 190 visa can be beneficial.
Both visas offer a pathway to Australian citizenship. Consider which visa aligns better with your long-term plans for residency and citizenship. If you are migrating with family members, ensure that your chosen visa provides the best opportunities and support for their needs as well.
Choose the Subclass 189 Visa if:
- You meet the points requirement without needing additional points from state or territory nomination.
- You prefer the freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.
- Your occupation is on the MLTSSL.
Choose the Subclass 190 Visa if:
- You need the additional 5 points from state or territory nomination to meet the points threshold.
- You are willing to commit to living and working in a specific state or territory for a certain period.
- Your occupation is on the MLTSSL or STSOL and aligns with the nominating state/territory’s requirements.
