Subclass 189 vs 190: independence or state nomination
Both Subclass 189 and 190 are permanent, points-tested skilled visas. The practical difference is not visa quality: it is whether the applicant can and wants to use a state or territory nomination pathway, with its separate selection process and commitments.
Key points
- 189 has no state nomination requirement; 190 cannot proceed without nomination.
- 190 nomination currently contributes 5 points, but a state can demand criteria beyond the federal points test.
- Both generally require invitation, age under 45, Competent English, a suitable skills assessment, an eligible occupation and at least 65 points.
- Neither a high score nor nomination guarantees visa grant; the application evidence still controls.
Differences that matter
| Factor | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Permanent | Permanent |
| Nomination | Not required | Required from a state or territory |
| Nomination points | 0 | 5 |
| Selection layers | Federal SkillSelect invitation and visa assessment | Jurisdiction selection, then federal invitation and visa assessment |
| Occupation check | 189 stream on combined list | Federal 190 eligibility plus jurisdiction program |
Why 190 is not simply “189 plus five points”
A jurisdiction can require residence, employment, job offers, graduate status, minimum experience, higher English or a targeted occupation. It can prioritise particular applicants or close categories. These settings are separate from the federal visa rules and can change within a program year.
The extra points only apply when a valid nomination exists. Do not add them to an EOI score merely because you hope a state will nominate you.
Why 189 is not automatically the “better” visa
Subclass 189 avoids a nomination process and a state undertaking, but an eligible EOI may wait without invitation. A past occupation score is not a guarantee. A valid 190 opportunity can be more realistic for one applicant, while unavailable or unsuitable for another.
Evidence and timing checks for either option
- Confirm the occupation against the exact visa stream, not only a list acronym.
- Check the migration-purpose and expiry rules for the skills assessment.
- Record English test dates and every component score.
- Recalculate points when age, work experience, study or partner circumstances change.
- For 190, preserve every document used in the jurisdiction's selection process.
- After invitation, reconcile the score with the evidence before lodging.
A practical choice framework
Start with eligibility for each pathway, then compare invitation uncertainty, state program access, family plans, work location and any declaration requested by the nominating jurisdiction. For the wider context, use the 189, 190 and 491 comparison.
Official sources to check before acting
These pages control over any summary on this website. Recheck them when you submit an EOI, accept a nomination or lodge a visa application.
Important Notice: The content on this page is for general information only. Australian visa policies and requirements are subject to change at any time. Always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most current and accurate information.