Subclass 189 vs 190 Australian visa differences

Difference Between Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 Australian Visas

Feature Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa) Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)

Sponsorship Required? ❌ No state nomination required ✅ Requires nomination from an Australian state/territory

Points-based? ✅ Yes (Minimum 65 points) ✅ Yes (Minimum 65 points, plus extra points for nomination)

Work & Live Anywhere? ✅ Yes, you can live/work anywhere in Australia ❌ No, you must live/work in the nominating state for at least 2 years

Processing Time Slower due to high demand Faster because states prioritize nominations

Occupation List Must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) Can be on MLTSSL or Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)

PR Status ✅ Permanent Residency (PR) granted directly ✅ Permanent Residency (PR) granted directly

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Which One Should You Choose?

✅ Choose Subclass 189 if:

• You do not want to be tied to a specific state.

• Your occupation is on the MLTSSL list.

• You have high points (above 85+ for faster processing).

✅ Choose Subclass 190 if:

• You are struggling to get enough points for 189 (State nomination gives extra 5 points).

• Your occupation is on the STSOL list (not eligible for 189).

• You are willing to live/work in a specific state for at least 2 years.

• You want faster processing compared to 189.

Verdict: If you qualify for both, Subclass 189 gives more freedom, but Subclass 190 has a higher chance of success due to state nomination.