Skilled Visas – General Skilled Migration to Australia
Pathways for Independent & State-Nominated Skilled Workers
Visa Streams: 189 | 190 | 491 | 191
🧭 Overview
General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas are for highly skilled individuals who want to migrate to Australia independently or with a state/territory nomination. These visas are points-tested, do not require employer sponsorship, and offer direct or transitional pathways to Permanent Residency (PR).
This program targets occupations listed on the Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL) and is designed to meet Australia’s labor market needs through a competitive points-based selection system.
🗂️ Skilled Visa Comparison Table
| Visa Subclass | Type | Points Tested | Nomination Required | PR Pathway |
| 189 – Skilled Independent | Permanent | ✅ | ❌ None | ✅ Direct PR |
| 190 – Skilled Nominated | Permanent | ✅ | ✅ State/Territory | ✅ Direct PR |
| 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) | Provisional | ✅ | ✅ State/Family Sponsor | ✅ via Subclass 191 |
| 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) | Permanent | ❌ | ✅ 491/494 visa required | ✅ Full PR |
Visa Streams in Detail
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
• No sponsorship or nomination required
• Must meet minimum Points Test threshold (currently 65)
• Access to permanent residency on grant
• Best suited for high-scoring, in-demand occupations
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
• Requires nomination from a state or territory government
• Must meet specific state occupation list criteria
• Bonus points awarded for nomination
• Direct PR with permanent residency on approval
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
• Requires nomination from a state/territory or family member in a regional area
• Must live and work in designated regional areas
• 5-year provisional visa with clear PR pathway via Subclass 191
• Extra points awarded for regional commitment
Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191)
• For holders of Subclass 491 or 494
• Must demonstrate 3 years residence in regional area
• Minimum income threshold must be met
• Grants full Permanent Residency
📑 Document Checklist
✔️ Valid Passport
✔️ English Test Results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
✔️ Skills Assessment from approved authority
✔️ EOI (Expression of Interest) in SkillSelect
✔️ Nomination documents (190 or 491)
✔️ Health & Character clearance
✔️ Partner documents (if claiming spouse points)
