Skilled Migration

Skilled Visas to Australia – Build Your Pathway to PR

Visa Category Grid

Visa

Type

PR Pathway

Regional

Nomination Required

Notes

🧩 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

🔍 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.