189 vs 190 vs 491: compare the pathway, not just the points
Subclass 189, 190 and 491 share a points-tested framework, but they do not produce the same status or obligations. A useful comparison starts with occupation eligibility and evidence, then looks at nomination, regional limits and permanent versus provisional status.
Key points
- Subclass 189 and 190 are permanent visas; Subclass 491 is a five-year provisional regional visa.
- 189 has no nomination requirement, 190 requires state or territory nomination, and 491 requires nomination or eligible-relative sponsorship.
- Current nomination points are 5 for 190 and 15 for 491; the published minimum remains 65 points for each points-tested pathway.
- No pathway is universally easier or better: occupation lists, evidence, selection settings and personal constraints determine what is realistic.
Side-by-side comparison
| Question | 189 | 190 | 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status at grant | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional, five years |
| Support required | No state nomination or family sponsor | State or territory nomination | State or territory nomination, or eligible-relative sponsorship |
| Additional points | None for nomination | 5 | 15 |
| Regional condition | No 491-style designated-area condition | No 491-style designated-area condition | Must live, work and study in a designated regional area |
| Later PR application | Not needed for visa status | Not needed for visa status | Separate Subclass 191 application if eligible |
Requirements the pathways have in common
For the main points-tested applicant, each pathway generally requires an invitation, age under 45 at invitation, at least Competent English, a relevant eligible occupation, a suitable skills assessment and at least 65 points. Home Affairs assesses the evidence for the invitation score; an online estimate is not a decision.
Why the occupation check comes first
The same occupation can be eligible for one pathway or stream and unavailable for another. A state can also apply a narrower nomination occupation list or applicant category. Search the Home Affairs combined list by the exact visa stream, then check the live jurisdiction program. Do not choose a visa only because its points bonus is larger.
A decision sequence that avoids false certainty
- Confirm the exact occupation code, visa eligibility and assessing authority.
- Verify age, English and skills assessment requirements at the likely invitation date.
- Calculate evidence-backed points before adding any nomination or sponsorship points.
- For 190 or 491, test the live jurisdiction or family-sponsor requirements separately.
- Decide whether regional residence is workable for every family member who would hold a 491.
- Compare provisional versus permanent status, timing, cost and document burden.
- Keep EOIs current and do not treat a historic invitation score as a forecast.
When each pathway may deserve investigation
- 189: investigate when the occupation is eligible and the applicant can compete without nomination, while accepting that invitation timing is uncertain.
- 190: investigate when a jurisdiction genuinely targets the profile and the applicant can meet both its current program and federal requirements.
- 491: investigate when regional living is workable and a valid nomination or eligible-relative sponsorship pathway exists.
Read the detailed 189, 190 and 491 guides before acting.
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.