Skilled Migration
Skilled Visas to Australia – Build Your Pathway to PR
🔍 How Skilled Migration Visas Work
The GSM program allows skilled workers to apply for PR based on their age, education, English ability, and work experience. The journey typically follows:
1. Skills assessment in the nominated occupation
2. Calculate points (min 65 required)
3. Submit EOI to SkillSelect
4. Receive invitation → Apply for a visa
5. Transition to PR (via 189/190/191/887)
💼 Key Skilled Pathways
Pathway | Description |
🛫 189 – Independent PR | No state nomination needed, direct PR on invite |
🏛️ 190 – State-Sponsored PR | Requires state nomination, permanent residency |
🌄 491 – Regional Provisional | Live/work in regional area, convert to PR (191) |
🔁 887 – Regional PR | For those who held 489 or 491 and met work/stay conditions |
🎯 191 – Final Regional PR | After 491 → 3 years income + residence requirement |
Eligibility Checklist
✅ Aged under 45
✅ Competent English (IELTS 6.0+)
✅ Positive Skills Assessment in the nominated occupation
✅ Minimum 65 points (EOI score)
✅ Occupation listed on CSOL
✅ Meet health and character requirements
📥 [Download Skilled Visa Checklist] → lead_download_checklist_skilled
Common Risks & Red Flags
❌ Submitting incorrect ANZSCO code ❌ Expired or invalid skills assessment ❌ Applying under wrong stream (190 vs 491) ❌ Not meeting 65 points threshold ❌ Incorrect state nomination procedure
📥 [Download Skilled Risk Guide PDF] → risk_warning_skilled ✅ Tags: compliance_critical, risk_flag_skilled
❓ FAQ Section
- Can I apply without a job offer?
Yes, for 189/190/491 visas you do not need a job offer – it’s points-tested. - How do I prove my work experience?
Via employment references, payslips, contracts, and skills assessment. - What’s the minimum score to be invited?
Usually 65 points, but higher scores increase chances. - Can I include my family?
Yes – spouse and dependent children can be added. - Is the 887 visa only for 489 holders?
No, it also applies to 491 holders who meet regional stay rules. - When can I move to PR from 491?
After 3 years with an income threshold → Subclass 191. - How long does state nomination take?
Usually 1–8 weeks, depending on the state and occupation. - Can I apply from offshore?
Yes – most skilled visas accept offshore EOIs.
🧩 Visa Category Grid (Optional for Hub Pages)
Visa | Type | PR Pathway | Regional | Nomination Required | Notes |
189 | Independent | ✅ Direct PR | ❌ | ❌ | Points-based, offshore or onshore |
190 | State PR | ✅ Direct PR | ❌ | ✅ | Needs state nomination |
491 | Provisional | ➜ PR via 191 | ✅ | ✅ | Regional 5-year visa |
887 | Regional PR | ✅ Final PR | ✅ | ➜ 489/491 | Requires regional work |
191 | Regional PR | ✅ Final PR | ✅ | ➜ 491 | After 3 years + income threshold |
Application Process for Subclass 190 Visa

Follow these steps to apply for the Subclass 190 Visa:
✅ Check Eligibility – Ensure your occupation is on the approved lists and check state-specific requirements.
✅ Get a Skills Assessment – Obtain verification from a relevant assessment authority.
✅ Take an English Test – Meet language proficiency criteria.
✅ Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.
✅ Apply for State Nomination – Follow the application rules of your nominating state or territory.
✅ Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through SkillSelect.
✅ Lodge Your Visa Application within the 60-day deadline.
Processing Time & Costs
Stage | Timeframe | Cost |
Skills Assessment | 4–12 weeks | Varies by authority |
State Nomination | 2–8 weeks | AUD $200–$600 (if required) |
Subclass 190 Visa | 4–10 months | From AUD $4,640 |
State Nomination Programs
Each state and territory has unique nomination criteria. Here are some examples:
• NSW 190 Nomination: Targets high-demand occupations and priority sectors.
• VIC 190 Nomination: Focuses on applicants with STEM skills, health roles, and critical trades.
• QLD 190 Program: Encourages applications for regional and rural jobs.
• SA, WA, TAS, ACT, NT: Offer tailored nomination streams based on specific workforce needs.
FAQs – Subclass 190 Visa
Do I need to live in the nominating state?
Yes, you are expected to live and work in the nominating state for at least two years.
Can I move to another state after securing PR?
Once you’ve met your nomination obligations, you are free to live or work anywhere in Australia.
Can I include my partner and children in the application?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can be included in your application.
Can this visa lead to Australian citizenship?
Absolutely. After meeting specific residency and character requirements, you’re eligible for citizenship.
Why Choose VisaAdvisor?
✅ Experts in General Skilled Migration (GSM) and state nomination processes.
✅ Comprehensive assistance with SkillSelect EOIs and documentation.
✅ Practical strategies to maximise your eligibility and points score.
✅ Tailored state-specific guidance to meet nomination requirements.
✅ End-to-end support from the moment you start your application to the successful visa grant.