Skilled migration. Understand your points. Plan your next step.
Subclasses 189, 190 and 491 are invitation-based and points-tested; subclass 191 is a later permanent pathway for eligible regional visa holders. Compare them below, then discuss which requirements apply to your circumstances with Amir.
Advice from Amir Adhikari, Registered Migration Agent (MARN 1803796), based in Melbourne.Consultations by phone, Zoom or at our Melbourne office.
Compare the four subclasses
General information only, not an eligibility assessment. Scroll the table sideways on smaller screens.
| Visa | Outcome | Sponsorship or nomination | Points test | Regional distinction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 189Skilled Independent VisaPoints-tested stream | Permanent | No employer sponsorship or state nomination | Minimum 65; invitation score may be higher | No regional restriction under this visa |
| 190Skilled Nominated VisaState or territory nominated | Permanent | State or territory nomination | Minimum 65 total, including 5 nomination points | Review the nominating jurisdiction’s residence and work commitments |
| 491Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) VisaState-nominated or eligible family-sponsored | Provisional · 5 years | State or territory nomination, or eligible family sponsorship | Minimum 65 total, including 15 nomination or sponsorship points | Designated regional areas; check the official postcode classification |
| 191Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) VisaRegional Provisional stream | Permanent | No new state nomination or employer sponsorship under this stream | No new points test, EOI or invitation | Provisional visa conditions continue until permanent residence is granted |
Subclass 191 is shaded because it is a later pathway from an eligible regional visa, not an entry option through a GSM points invitation.
General information only, not individual migration advice. See the Department’s SkillSelect information (opens in a new tab) and points table (opens in a new tab).
Skilled migration questions
It is the minimum points threshold for 189, 190 and 491, not an invitation guarantee. The total includes applicable nomination or sponsorship points, and selection can depend on occupation, available places and jurisdiction-specific priorities.
No. An Expression of Interest is not a visa application and does not provide a bridging visa or lawful immigration status. Maintain a lawful visa if you are in Australia.
You can express interest in multiple eligible subclasses through SkillSelect. State nomination requirements, EOI preferences and commitment declarations must be considered separately.
No. It is not a universal requirement for the points-tested visas, but can affect points or a jurisdiction’s nomination criteria. Evidence and occupation-specific requirements still need assessment.
It helps eligible regional visa holders find their next step. The 191 Regional Provisional stream is a later permanent residence pathway for eligible 491 and 494 holders—not a new points-tested GSM application.
Book the appointment first, then complete the visitor registration form linked in the booking section. Consultations are normally by phone, Zoom or at the Melbourne office.
Your matter:
General Skilled Migration.
Selected service · General Skilled Migration
A consultation assesses your circumstances, discusses realistic options and outlines possible next steps. It is not a visa or review application and not a representation agreement. Any further work, its scope and fees are agreed separately.
- 01Book your appointment
Choose an available appointment time and check the details before confirming.
Book appointment (opens booking page in a new tab) - 02Complete the visitor registration form
After booking, add your details and circumstances for your general skilled migration consultation.
Complete registration form (opens in a new tab) - 03Attend your consultation
Appointments are normally by phone, via Zoom, or in person at our Melbourne office. Follow your appointment confirmation for the arrangements.
Urgent matter or approaching deadline? Call our office on 03 9620 3195 or mobile +61 415 997 528.Message (SMS)WhatsAppA booking does not lodge anything, preserve rights or extend a deadline.