Skilled Migration Visa – Australia
Permanent Residency Pathways for Skilled Professionals
Australia’s Skilled Migration Program provides a pathway for qualified professionals to secure permanent residency based on their skills, experience, and contribution to the Australian workforce. Through visas such as subclass 189, 190, and 491, eligible applicants may obtain long-term residency and build their future in Australia.
ABEE’S Consultancy prepares complete, accurate, and fully compliant applications that align with current immigration laws, occupation lists, and state nomination requirements.
What Is Australia’s Skilled Migration Program?
The Skilled Migration Program operates on a points-tested system that assesses applicants based on:
- Age
- Skilled employment
- Educational qualifications
- English proficiency
- State nomination or family sponsorship
- Australian study or work
- NAATI, Professional Year & partner skills
To be considered for an invitation, your occupation must appear on the relevant Skilled Occupation List and you must obtain a positive skills assessment.
Key Skilled Migration Visa Categories
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
A points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled individuals without state nomination or employer sponsorship.
Highlights:
- PR from approval
- Live and work anywhere in Australia
- No state obligations
- Highly competitive occupations receive priority
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
A permanent residency visa for applicants nominated by a state or territory government.
Highlights:
- Additional nomination points
- PR granted at approval
- Must meet state-specific requirements
- Strong option for applicants needing extra points
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
A points-tested visa requiring state nomination or eligible family sponsorship.
Highlights:
- 5-year provisional visa
- Access to PR through subclass 191 after meeting income and residence criteria
- Additional points for nomination/sponsorship
- Designed for regional Australia
Comparison Table – 189 vs 190 vs 491
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Type | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional (PR via 191) |
| Sponsorship | None | State Nomination | State or Family Sponsorship |
| Points Boost | No | +5 Points | +15 Points |
| Work/Live Location | Anywhere in Australia | State that nominates you | Designated Regional Areas |
| PR Pathway | Immediate | Immediate | After 3 years via 191 |
| Competitiveness | Very High | High | Moderate |
| For PhD/Masters Graduates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
End-to-End Skilled Migration Process
Eligibility Check & Occupation Selection
Review the Skilled Occupation Lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL) and confirm eligibility based on points, qualifications, and experience.
Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. (A mandatory prerequisite for skilled migration.)
Expression of Interest (EOI) – SkillSelect
Submit your EOI outlining your points claim, qualification details, English score, and skilled employment.
- Points
- Occupation demand
- State priorities
- English proficiency
State Nomination Application (if applicable)
For 190 or 491, submit an additional nomination application through the relevant state portal.
- Residency
- Work experience
- Occupation demand
- Employer support (if required)
Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Only after receiving an invitation can the visa application be lodged.
Lodge Visa Application
Provide evidence supporting all claims:
- Skills assessment
- English results
- Employment records
- Police clearances
- Health examinations
- Partner & dependent documents
Visa Outcome & PR Pathway
Subclass 189 and 190 grant immediate PR. Subclass 491 leads to PR via 191 after meeting specified criteria.
State-by-State Nomination Guide
Each state sets its own occupation list, experience requirements, and residency rules.
New South Wales (NSW)
- Broad occupation lists
- Invitation-based selection
- High competition
Victoria
- Focus on critical industries: health, engineering, ICT
- Preferences toward qualified onshore applicants
Queensland
- Targets engineering, health, trades, agriculture
- Work experience often required
South Australia
- Clear pathways for international graduates
- Favourable for hospitality, trades, health, engineering
Western Australia
- Extensive occupation lists
- Strong focus on skilled trades & healthcare
Tasmania
- Multiple pathways including Graduates, Skilled Workers & Business Operators
ACT (Canberra Matrix)
- Point-based matrix system
- Preference to long-term ACT residents
Northern Territory
- Supports occupations in demand in regional workforce
- English and experience requirements apply
Partner & Dependent Visa Inclusions
Applicants can include:
- Married or de facto partners
- Dependent children
- Stepchildren
- Newly born children (post-lodgement updates permitted)
Partners must meet identity, health, and character requirements. They may contribute partner skill points where eligible.
Invitation Trends & Points Analysis (General Insight)
While invitation numbers vary each financial year, the following trends are common:
Subclass 189
- Invitations often issued to high-demand occupations
- Competitive points typically higher
- Strong English and skilled employment improve ranking
Subclass 190
- Trends depend on state priorities
- Local residency and work experience increase chances
Subclass 491
- More accessible due to regional focus
- Higher points achieved through nomination
(Current trends can be updated regularly based on your website’s analytics and news feed.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum points requirement?
The minimum threshold is 65 points, though competitive occupations often require higher points.
2. Can I apply for multiple states?
Yes, but each state has unique requirements and nomination obligations.
3. Do I need a job offer for skilled migration?
Not required for most skilled visas, except where a state specifically asks.
4. Can I upgrade from 491 to permanent residency?
Yes. Subclass 191 provides PR once income and residency requirements are met.
5. Can I change occupations later?
The occupation used for skills assessment remains linked to your visa pathway.
Why Choose ABEE’S Consultancy for Skilled Migration?
ABEE’S Consultancy delivers structured and compliant migration strategies tailored for skilled professionals. Our approach includes:
Detailed Eligibility and Points Analysis
Comprehensive assessment of your profile and points potential
Accurate Occupation Identification
Ensuring your occupation aligns with skilled occupation lists
End-to-End Preparation for EOI and Nomination
Complete support through the entire application process
Document Organisation Aligned with Migration Legislation
Ensuring all documentation meets legal requirements
Real-Time Updates on State Nomination Changes
Keeping you informed of the latest policy changes
Tailored Guidance for Partners and Dependents
Supporting your entire family’s migration journey
Professional Representation Throughout the Migration Process
Expert guidance at every stage of your application
Every submission is prepared with precision to reflect the applicant’s full eligibility and strengthen the likelihood of receiving an invitation.
Start Your Migration Journey Today
Professional guidance for your future in Australia.