28 Jan 189 Visa vs 190 Visa
189 Visa vs 190 Visa: Choosing the Best Path to Australian Permanent Residency
Australia’s immigration system is one of the most structured in the world, offering a variety of visa options tailored to meet the needs of skilled professionals seeking to live and work in the country. Among the most popular choices for permanent residency are the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa) and the Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa). Both offer significant benefits, but they cater to different circumstances, making it critical to understand their distinctions to choose the right pathway.
This article examines the key features, eligibility criteria, benefits, and challenges associated with both visa types, helping potential migrants make an informed decision.
Subclass 189: The Skilled Independent Visa
The Subclass 189 visa is a points-tested visa designed for skilled workers who do not require sponsorship from an employer, state, or territory. It offers immediate permanent residency and grants full rights to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
Key Features
- Independent Pathway: No need for state or territory nomination.
- Freedom to Live Anywhere: Holders can choose to live and work in any part of Australia.
- Permanent Residency: Grants full permanent residency upon approval.
- Citizenship Pathway: Eligible for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
- Healthcare Access: Provides access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Eligibility Criteria
Skills Assessment: Applicants must have a positive skills assessment in an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Points Test: A minimum of 65 points is required, although higher points improve the chances of receiving an invitation to apply. Points are awarded for age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and other factors.
Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation to apply.
English Proficiency: High scores in tests like IELTS, OET, or PTE Academic can contribute to a higher points score.
Age: Applicants must be under 45 at the time of invitation.
Advantages
- Immediate permanent residency.
- Flexibility to live and work anywhere.
- No obligation to remain in a specific state or region.
Challenges
- Highly competitive, with invitations issued to applicants with higher points.
- Occupations on the MLTSSL are often limited to high-demand industries.
- Processing times can vary, with delays for less competitive scores.
Subclass 190: The Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 visa is also a points-tested permanent residency visa but requires nomination by a state or territory government. This visa is ideal for skilled workers willing to live and work in a specific state or territory for a designated period.
Key Features
- State Nomination: Requires sponsorship by a state or territory government.
- Commitment to Residency: Applicants must live in the nominating state for at least two years.
- Permanent Residency: Provides full permanent residency upon approval.
- Additional Points: State nomination adds 5 points to the applicant’s total score.
Eligibility Criteria
Skills Assessment: Positive assessment in an occupation listed on either the MLTSSL or the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
State Nomination: Applicants must meet the specific requirements of the nominating state or territory. Each state has its own list of eligible occupations and criteria, such as work experience and regional residency.
Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI via SkillSelect, specifying interest in state nomination.
Points Test: Like the 189 visa, a minimum of 65 points is required, with an additional 5 points for state nomination.
Commitment to State Residency: Sign an agreement to reside in the nominating state for at least two years.
Advantages
- Easier to qualify due to the additional 5 points from state nomination.
- Often prioritizes occupations that are not on the MLTSSL but are in demand within specific states.
- Faster processing times in some cases, as states actively select candidates based on their needs.
Challenges
- Limited freedom to move within Australia during the initial two years.
- State-specific criteria can vary significantly, making the application process more complex.
Comparing 189 and 190 Visas
Independence vs. Obligation
The 189 visa provides complete independence, allowing holders to live and work anywhere in Australia. In contrast, the 190 visa ties applicants to a specific state for at least two years, limiting flexibility in the short term.
Occupation Lists
- The 189 visa is limited to occupations on the MLTSSL, which prioritizes high-demand, long-term roles.
- The 190 visa allows for occupations on both the MLTSSL and the STSOL, offering broader opportunities for applicants.
Points Test
Both visas require a minimum of 65 points, but state nomination for the 190 visa adds an additional 5 points, making it an attractive option for applicants with lower initial scores.
Competition
The 189 visa is highly competitive, with invitations often extended to those with the highest points. The 190 visa, however, can be less competitive due to the additional 5 points and state-specific selection processes.
Freedom of Location
- The 189 visa offers unrestricted freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia.
- The 190 visa requires a commitment to living and working in the nominating state for two years.
Processing Times
- The 189 visa’s processing times can be unpredictable due to high demand.
- The 190 visa often benefits from faster processing times, as states actively select candidates.
Case Studies: Real-Life Scenarios
Case Study 1: High-Scoring IT Professional
Maria, an IT specialist with 85 points, is seeking permanent residency in Australia. Her occupation is on the MLTSSL, and she has no preference for where to live. With her high points, Maria receives an invitation to apply for the 189 visa within two months of submitting her EOI. She enjoys the freedom to settle in Sydney but eventually decides to move to Melbourne for better career opportunities.
Case Study 2: Midwife with State Nomination
John, a midwife with 70 points, finds his occupation on the STSOL. He applies for a 190 visa with nomination from South Australia, which adds 5 points to his total. John’s visa is processed quickly due to state nomination, and he relocates to Adelaide, where he works for two years before exploring options in other parts of Australia.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between 189 and 190
Your Occupation
Determine whether your occupation is on the MLTSSL, STSOL, or both. If it’s only on the STSOL, the 190 visa may be your only option.
Your Points Score
If your points score is high, the 189 visa may be a more competitive and flexible choice. For applicants with lower scores, the additional 5 points from state nomination can make the 190 visa a more viable pathway.
Preferred Location
Consider whether you’re open to residing in a specific state or territory for two years. If you value freedom of location, the 189 visa is ideal.
State-Specific Criteria
Research the nomination requirements for states or territories that sponsor the 190 visa. Ensure you meet their specific criteria, such as work experience, regional residency, or job offers.
Which Visa Is Right for You?
Choosing between the 189 and 190 visas depends on your personal circumstances, career goals, and willingness to commit to a specific location. For highly skilled professionals with competitive points scores and occupations on the MLTSSL, the 189 visa offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility. However, for those with lower points or occupations on the STSOL, the 190 visa provides a practical pathway to permanent residency with slightly fewer freedoms.
Both visas offer incredible opportunities to build a future in Australia, a country renowned for its high quality of life, robust healthcare system, and thriving job market. By carefully evaluating your options and aligning them with your long-term goals, you can make an informed decision and embark on a successful migration journey.
Skilled Visa
“Suitable for people aged between 18 – 45 who are looking to migrate to Australia.”
Business Visa
“Suitable for people aged between 18-55 who are looking to migrate to Australia.”
Partner Visa
“For any person who is married to or in a relationship with an Australian citizen.”
Alexander King is a leading authority in the field of migration, holding a prominent role as a Head of Compliance at Migration Consultant LLC (https://migrationconsultant.com). With years of expertise under his belt, King has guided countless individuals and families on their journey to immigrating to Australia and Canada, shaping countless lives with his professional advice and in-depth knowledge of immigration law and procedures.
His profound understanding of the complexities of immigration coupled with his unparalleled skills in tackling these challenges has earned him a reputation as a trusted expert in his field. This expertise is shared in his groundbreaking book, "How to Immigrate to Canada," a comprehensive guide designed to streamline the process for those aspiring to call Canada their new home.
King's dedicated, compassionate approach to helping others stems from his own experiences. Born and raised in a multicultural community, he grew up witnessing the struggles and triumphs of people striving to start new lives in new countries. This drove his passion for guiding others through their immigration journey, a passion that he pours into his work and writing.
Authoring "How to Immigrate to Canada" has been an endeavor close to his heart. King hopes that through his words, he can demystify the often daunting process of immigration, making it accessible and achievable for everyone.