Difference Between subclass(189) and subclass(190) Visa

Australia offers several visa options for individuals seeking to immigrate to the country. Two commonly sought-after visas for skilled migrants are the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). While both visas are designed to facilitate skilled migration, there are significant differences between them.

 

Subclass 189 Visa

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

 

The Subclass 189 visa is a points-tested, permanent residence visa designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in Australia. Here are the key features of this visa:

 

1. Independent Application

• No Nomination Required: You do not need a nomination from an Australian state or territory government or an employer to apply for this visa.
• Points-Tested: Applicants must meet a minimum point threshold to be eligible for this visa. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, skills, and work experience.

 

2. Permanent Residence

• Permanent Residency: Successful applicants and their families become permanent residents of Australia, with the freedom to live and work anywhere in the country.

 

3. No Regional Requirement

• No Regional Obligation: Unlike the Subclass 190 visa, there is no obligation to live and work in a specific region of Australia.

 

4. Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Expression of Interest: You must submit an Expression of Interest through the SkillSelect system and receive an invitation to apply before lodging your visa application.

 

Subclass 190 Visa

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

 

The Subclass 190 visa is also a permanent residence visa for skilled workers, but it requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. Here are the key features of this visa:

 

1. State Nomination

• State Nomination: To apply for the Subclass 190 visa, you must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Each state has its own list of occupations in demand.
• Points-Tested: Similar to the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must also meet a minimum point threshold based on factors like age, language proficiency, and skills.

 

2. Permanent Residence

• Permanent Residency: Successful applicants and their families become permanent residents of Australia, with the freedom to live and work anywhere in the country.

 

3. Regional Obligation

• Regional Obligation: Subclass 190 visa holders are required to live and work in the nominating state or territory for a specified period, typically two years.

 

4. Expression of Interest (EOI)

• Expression of Interest: You must submit an Expression of Interest through the SkillSelect system and receive a nomination from a state or territory government before you can apply for this visa.

 

Conclusion

In summary, both the Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas are pathways to permanent residency in Australia for skilled workers. The key distinction lies in the nomination requirement and the regional obligation. The Subclass 189 visa is independent, with no nomination required and no regional obligation, while the Subclass 190 visa necessitates nomination by an Australian state or territory government and includes a regional work requirement. Your choice between these visas should align with your eligibility, occupation, and willingness to live in a specific region of Australia as per the visa requirements.