The Subclass 189 visa, also known as the Independent Skilled visa, is designed for individuals with skills in demand in Australia. If your occupation is listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), you may be eligible to apply. This visa allows you to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia without the need for a sponsor. One of the key advantages of the Subclass 189 is that you do not need to be nominated by an employer or state government; you can apply directly if you meet the points requirement and pass the skills assessment.
In contrast, the Subclass 190 visa, known as the Skilled Nominated visa, requires you to be nominated by an Australian state or territory government. You must also have an occupation that appears on their State Nominated Occupation List. This visa also provides permanent residency, enabling you to live and work in Australia indefinitely. However, it’s important to note that by accepting this nomination, you may have specific obligations to live and work in the nominating state for a certain period of time, usually two years.
When considering these two visa options, the points test plays a crucial role in both subclasses. You must score at least 65 points on the points test to be eligible for either visa. Points are awarded based on factors such as your age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, and education qualifications. While you might have a similar points score for both visas, the nomination requirement for the Subclass 190 may influence your overall score if you have strong regional ties.
Another factor to consider is the processing times and competition levels. The Subclass 189 visa might have longer processing times due to its independent nature, leading to higher competition as numerous applicants seek to gain permanent residency based solely on personal qualifications. Conversely, because the Subclass 190 visa involves state nomination, the processing time may vary depending on the state and its demand for specific occupations. This means that if you have an occupation in high demand in a specific state, you might have a more favorable chance of obtaining a Subclass 190 visa.
To put it briefly, both the Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas offer pathways to permanent residency in Australia for skilled migrants, yet they differ significantly in terms of nomination requirements, obligations, and potential processing times. As you chart your migration path, it is imperative to weigh these factors carefully to determine which visa aligns best with your skills, goals, and willingness to commit to a state or territory. Understanding these differences will help you make a well-informed decision that can positively impact your future in Australia.