189 vs 190 vs 491 Visa (2025): Which Skilled Visa Is Best for You?
If you’re comparing the 189 vs 190 vs 491 Visa pathways in Australia, it’s important to understand the differences in points, nomination, and PR. Make a confident choice with Experience you can trust.
Short answer: choose the visa that matches your points, occupation and location goals. The 189 gives maximum flexibility, the 190 offers permanent residency with state support, and the 491 provides a high-probability pathway that leads to PR after three years.
See How to Improve Your Points Score.
What Each Visa Is
Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent (Permanent)
Permanent residency with **no employer or state nomination**. You can live and work **anywhere** in Australia. Competitive invitations; strong points usually required.
Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated (Permanent)
Permanent residency with **state/territory nomination**. You agree to live and work in the nominating state initially. Wider occupation access than 189 in many cases.
Subclass 491 — 491 Visa (Pathway to PR)
A **regional pathway to permanent residency after 3 years**. Requires state nomination (or eligible family sponsorship) and living/working in a designated regional area.
At-a-Glance Comparison (189 vs 190 vs 491 visa)
| Feature | 189 | 190 | 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Type | Permanent residency | Permanent residency | Provisional (up to 5 years) → PR via 191 after 3 years |
| Nomination | Not required | Required (state/territory) | Required (state/territory or eligible regional family) |
| Where You Can Live | Anywhere in Australia | Initial commitment to nominating state | Designated regional area |
| Points Boost | None | +5 points for state nomination | +15 points for state nomination or eligible family sponsorship |
| Occupation Lists | Medium & Long-Term list focus | State lists (often broader) | Regional/State lists (broadest access) |
| Employer Needed? | No | No | No (it’s points-tested, not a job offer) |
| Typical Use Case | High points, wants full flexibility | Willing to settle in a chosen state for PR | Open to regional living for a surer PR pathway |
Eligibility — What All Three Share
- Minimum **65 points** on the points test (higher is better for invitations).
- **Positive skills assessment** in your nominated occupation.
- **Age under 45** at invitation, **competent English**, health and character checks.
Who Should Choose Which (189 vs 190 vs 491 visa) ?
Choose the 189 if you want total flexibility
You have strong points, your occupation is in demand nationally and you prefer to avoid nomination commitments. Great for those who want to choose any city from day one.
Choose the 190 if you want PR with state support
You’re happy to settle in a particular state and your occupation appears on that state’s list. The +5 points and targeted nomination criteria can lift competitiveness.
Choose the 491 if you want the highest odds of invitation
You’re open to regional living for three years and want the **+15 points** advantage. This is a **pathway to permanent residency**, not a “temporary then go home” visa.
Expression of Interest (EOI) Guide •
Employer-sponsored alternative: 482 Visa – Employer Sponsorship
Next Steps (Simple Plan)
- Confirm your occupation and points. Identify gaps you can fix fast (English, experience, state nomination).
- Pick the best stream (189 vs 190 vs 491 visa). Match your score, occupation and location goals.
- Prepare documents and lodge your EOI. Then target state nomination where appropriate.
Want a decisive answer on which visa is best for you?
Book a consultation with Simon Mander — 22 years’ experience. Experience you can trust.
FAQs: 189 vs 190 vs 491 Visa
Do I need a job offer for any of these visas?
No. The 189, 190 and 491 are **points-tested** visas — they do not require an employer. If you already have an employer, consider employer-sponsored options.
Does the 491 visa really lead to permanent residency?
Yes. After meeting the **3-year regional living and income requirements**, you can apply for PR via the subclass **191**. It is a pathway, not a dead end.
Which visa is fastest?
It depends on occupation ceilings, points and state demand at the time. In practice, many applicants secure invitations sooner via 190/491 than via 189 when cut-offs are high.
What if my points are just under 65?
Lift English, gain more skilled experience, or target 190/491 nomination. Start with our guide: Improve Your Points Score.
Can I move states on a 190?
States expect you to live and work there initially. Always follow your nomination obligations — we’ll advise on the practicalities before you commit.
Authoritative Resources
Official overview: SkillSelect – Department of Home Affairs •
Occupation lists: Skilled Occupation List