Australia Skilled Visa 189, 190 & 491 – Eligibility & How to Apply

What is an Australian Skilled Visa?

Australian Skilled Visas allow qualified professionals to live and work in Australia permanently or temporarily, depending on the subclass. The main skilled visas are:

  • Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa (permanent)

  • Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa (permanent, state-nominated)

  • Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (temporary, regional)

These visas are points-based and require meeting specific eligibility criteria, including skills assessment and English proficiency.

Skilled Visa Subclasses Explained

1. Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

  • For applicants not sponsored by a state or employer

  • Requires minimum points score under the points test

  • Allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia

2. Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

  • Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory

  • Must meet eligibility and points requirements

  • Permanent visa allowing work and residency in Australia

3. Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

  • Temporary visa valid for 5 years

  • Must be nominated by a state or sponsored by a relative in regional Australia

  • Leads to permanent residency via the 191 visa pathway

Eligibility Criteria for Skilled Visas

To qualify for a Skilled Visa, you generally need to meet these requirements:

  1. Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List

  2. Skills Assessment from the relevant assessing authority

  3. Minimum points score (points based on age, education, experience, English proficiency)

  4. Health and character requirements

  5. English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)

How to Apply for a Skilled Visa

Step 1 – Check Your Occupation

Ensure your occupation is listed on the current Skilled Occupation List.

Step 2 – Skills Assessment

Submit your qualifications and experience to the relevant assessing authority.

Step 3 – Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Use SkillSelect to indicate your interest in applying for a skilled visa.

Step 4 – Receive Invitation to Apply

Only applicants who meet points requirements and other criteria will receive an invitation.

Step 5 – Apply for the Visa

Submit your application with supporting documents and pay the visa fee.

Step 6 – Wait for Decision

Processing times vary by subclass; check the latest updates from the Department of Home Affairs.

Skilled Visa Processing Times

  • Subclass 189: 6–12 months (average)

  • Subclass 190: 4–8 months (average)

  • Subclass 491: 12–18 months (average)

Times can vary depending on your country of origin and the completeness of your application.

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 FAQs

  • Eligibility depends on the specific visa subclass, but generally, applicants must meet a range of criteria, including:

    • Occupation: Your occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list.

    • Skills Assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.

    • English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate a competent level of English through an approved language test.

    • Points Test: For points-based visas (e.g. Subclass 189 or 190), you must meet the minimum points threshold, which considers factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, and English ability.

    • Health and Character: You must meet Australia’s health and character requirements.

    • Nomination or Sponsorship: Certain subclasses (e.g. Subclass 190 or 491) require nomination by a state/territory government or sponsorship by an eligible relative.

    Because visa criteria vary significantly between subclasses (e.g. 189 vs. 491 vs. 482), and each person’s background is unique, we recommend a personalised consultation. We’ll assess your qualifications, work history, and personal circumstances to identify the most suitable skilled visa pathway for you.

  • Only occupations listed on the Skilled Occupation List are eligible. This includes engineers, IT specialists, healthcare professionals, and tradespeople.

  • Visit the official Skilled Occupation List page on the Department of Home Affairs website or contact us.

  • Yes, all skilled visa applicants must have a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.

  • es, most skilled visa subclasses allow you to include eligible family members—typically a spouse or de facto partner and dependent children—as secondary applicants. Each family member must also meet health and character requirements. For temporary skilled visas like the Subclass 482, family members may be granted dependent visas with work and study rights, depending on the visa conditions. During your consultation, we’ll assess your family’s eligibility and help you prepare the necessary supporting documentation for their inclusion.

  • Processing times vary significantly depending on the visa subclass, your personal circumstances, and the Department of Home Affairs' workload at the time of application. For example, permanent skilled visas like the Subclass 189 may take several months, while temporary visas such as Subclass 482 might be processed faster if priority conditions apply. Delays may occur if documents are missing, if health or character issues arise, or if further information is requested. During your consultation, we provide an estimated timeframe tailored to your situation.

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