So, what’s the difference between 189 visa and 190 visa? (2026 Guide)
When looking at migrating to Australia through General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, you may have heard about Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visa options which are similar but very different in reality. They are both permanent residencies and based on the points test, so upon first glance can be confusing to compare.
So here is a guide to then key differences so you can work out what applies to you.
The Quick Answer
The key distinction is that of sponsorship:
- Skilled Independent visa subclass 189 (No sponsorship). There is no requirement for you to be sponsored and when you receive your visa, you can live and work in any location within Australia.
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) — Must get nomination from an Australian state or territory. In return, you earn 5 additional points out of your score, and you’ll be required to dedicate yourself to living and working in that state or territory for approximately two years.
Both are permanent visas, both full work visas, both access Medicare, both education visa, and ultimately — both visa to citizenship. There is a real point vs. freedom trade-off.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 |
Sponsorship | None required | State/territory nomination required |
Points bonus | None | +5 points for nomination |
Where you can live | Anywhere in Australia | Nominating state/territory (commitment period, typically ~2 years) |
Occupation list | MLTSSL only | MLTSSL + relevant state occupation lists (often broader) |
Application process | Single-stage (EOI → invitation) | Two-stage (state nomination first, then visa invitation) |
Competitiveness | Highly competitive — needs a strong points score | Generally more accessible, especially for applicants below the 189 cut-off |
Visa type | Permanent | Permanent |
Skilled Independent Visa (189)
This is the more “hands off” approach. There is no employer, family member or state government involved; you submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and if your points score is sufficient, you’ll be invited to apply.
Best suited for you if:
You have a good points total
Your occupation is on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
You’re looking to move to any location in Australia and need complete flexibility.
You don’t want to make the commitment of moving to a certain state.
Competition is the catch. Occupations can fill up quite rapidly as there’s no nomination boost and invitations are limited, and the higher points available are the higher chance of being invited.
Skilled Nominated Visa subclass 190 visa
This visa includes a state or territory government. One has to pass through a nomination process by a particular state (The criteria, occupation lists and sometimes the requirement of residency or job offer are set by the state). You are awarded an invitation to apply for the visa once your name is nominated and those additional 5 points.
It’s best for you if you:
Your points score is just below the average of 189.
Your job is on a state occupation list (although it is not on MLTSSL)
You can consider a state or territory for residence, for at least a couple years
You need a real points boost that will give you extra points to add to your weak application
And the price paid is a compromise for settlement. In general, the nominee must stay in a state for a period of time post-arrival but if the individual does not comply with these requirements on-time, it may affect their eligibility to be sponsored by that state at any future point or their standing in that particular state.
So, which one should you go for?
It’s easy to understand if you consider it this way:
High points score, want flexibility → Subclass 189
Is a little undersized and is willing to invest in a state