Australia's skilled migration program is a popular pathway for Indian professionals seeking to immigrate to Australia based on their skills and qualifications. The program offers several visa options, including the Subclass 189 and 190 visas, both designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the Australian economy.
While both visas lead to permanent residency in Australia, they significantly differ in eligibility requirements, the application process, and benefits. Therefore, it is important to understand the differences between the two visas before applying.
In this blog post, we will explore and compare the Subclass 189 and 190 visas and provide insights into which visa may be the better option for your circumstances.
Difference Between Australia Subclass 189 and 190 Visa
|
Factor |
Subclass 189 Visa |
Subclass 190 Visa |
|
Visa Type |
Independent Skilled Visa |
Skilled Nominated Visa |
|
State/Territory Nomination |
Not required |
Required from an Australian state/territory government |
|
Points Test |
Must pass points test (at least 65 points) |
Must pass points test (at least 65 points) and receive nomination from a state/territory government |
|
Occupation Lists |
Applicants can select an occupation from the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) |
Applicants can select an occupation from the MLTSSL, STSOL or a state/territory-specific occupation list |
|
Application Process |
Only through the invitation system, based on points score and occupation. |
Must be nominated by a state/territory government, then apply through the invitation system based on points score and occupation. |
|
English Language |
Must meet the minimum English language requirement |
Must meet the minimum English language requirement |
|
Residency Obligations |
Must reside in Australia as a permanent resident for at least 2 years before being eligible for citizenship |
Must reside in Australia as a permanent resident for at least 2 years before being eligible for citizenship and live and work in the nominating state/territory for at least 2 years |
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About Subclass 189 Visa
Subclass 189 visa is a popular option for skilled workers who wish to migrate to Australia independently. This visa is part of the General Skilled Migration program, which targets skilled workers who can meet the requirements for specific occupations in demand in Australia. Here's a detailed look at the Subclass 189 visa:
Definition and overview of Subclass 189 visa
The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia indefinitely. It does not require state or territory nomination, and applicants do not need a job offer or family sponsor to apply. This visa is designed for skilled workers who meet the points test and other eligibility requirements for their nominated occupation.
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for the Subclass 189 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be under 45 years of age.
- Have a positive skills assessment for their nominated occupation
- Score at least 65 points on the points test, which assesses age, English language proficiency, work experience, and education qualifications.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirement, which can be demonstrated through the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Occupational English Test (OET), Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
Benefits and drawbacks of Subclass 189 visa
The Subclass 189 visa has several benefits and drawbacks that applicants should consider:
Benefits:
- Permanent residency status, which allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely
- No requirement for state or territory nomination, which means you have independence in choosing where to live and work in Australia
- The Independent application process, which means you can apply without the need for employer sponsorship or family sponsor
- Full work rights and access to public services such as healthcare and education
Drawbacks:
- Limited state nomination opportunities, which may affect your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the visa
- A competitive points system, which means meeting the minimum requirements may not be enough to secure an invitation to apply
- Limited options for applicants who do not meet the English language proficiency requirement
Overall, the Subclass 189 visa is a good option for skilled workers who want to migrate to Australia independently and have the required skills and qualifications. However, there may be better options for those who prefer state nomination or have a lower point score.
About Subclass 190 Visa
The Subclass 190 visa is another popular option for skilled workers migrating to Australia. This visa is also part of the General Skilled Migration program and targets skilled workers who can meet the requirements for specific occupations in demand in a particular state or territory in Australia. Here's a detailed look at the Subclass 190 visa:
Definition and overview of Subclass 190 visa
The Subclass 190 visa is a permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in a particular state or territory in Australia. A state or territory government agency must nominate applicants to be eligible for this visa. This nomination is based on the applicant's skills and expertise in an occupation that is in demand in that particular state or territory.
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for the Subclass 190 visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be under 45 years of age.
- Have a positive skills assessment for their nominated occupation
- Score at least 65 points on the points test, which assesses age, English language proficiency, work experience, and education qualifications.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirement, which can be demonstrated through the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Occupational English Test (OET), Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
- Have a nomination from a state or territory government agency
Benefits and drawbacks of Subclass 190 visa
The Subclass 190 visa also has several benefits and drawbacks that applicants should consider:
Benefits:
- Permanent residency status, which allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely
- State nomination, which may increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the visa
- Full work rights and access to public services such as healthcare and education
Drawbacks:
- Limited independence in choosing where to live and work in Australia, as you must live in the state or territory that nominated you
- Competition for state nomination, which means that the nomination process may be competitive and selective
- The state or territory government may require you to work in a particular region or industry to fulfill the nomination terms.
Overall, the Subclass 190 visa is a good option for skilled workers who want to migrate to a particular state or territory in Australia and have the required skills and qualifications. However, there may be better options for those who want independence in choosing where to live and work or do not meet the requirements for state nomination.
Comparison of Subclass 189 and 190 Visas
While both the Subclass 189 and 190 visas are part of Australia's General Skilled Migration program and offer permanent residency to skilled workers, there are some key differences between the two that applicants should consider. Here's a comparison of Subclass 189 and 190 visas:
Application process
One of the main differences between the two visas is the application process. The Subclass 189 visa is independent, meaning applicants do not require a nomination from a state or territory government agency. On the other hand, the Subclass 190 visa requires a nomination from a state or territory government agency, and applicants must have the required skills and qualifications for an occupation in demand in that particular state or territory.
Eligibility criteria
Both visas have similar eligibility criteria, such as age, English language proficiency, skills assessment, and points test. However, the Subclass 190 visa has an additional requirement of state or territory nomination, which may vary depending on the state or territory.
Permanent residency status
Both visas offer permanent residency status, which allows applicants to live and work in Australia indefinitely. However, the level of independence in choosing where to live and work is the same. The Subclass 189 visa offers full independence, while the Subclass 190 visa requires applicants to live and work in the state or territory that nominated them.
Job Requirements
Another difference between the two visas is the job requirements. The Subclass 189 visa has no job requirements, as it is not tied to a particular state or territory. The Subclass 190 visa, on the other hand, requires applicants to have the required skills and qualifications for an occupation in demand in the state or territory that nominated them.
Language proficiency requirements
Both visas require applicants to meet the English language proficiency requirements, which can be demonstrated through IELTS, OET, PTE, or CAE. The required score may vary depending on the visa and the occupation.
Points system
Both visas use a points system to assess the eligibility of applicants. However, the points test for the Subclass 190 visa may vary depending on the state or territory, as they have specific skills and qualifications requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for both Subclass 189 and Subclass 190 visas simultaneously?
No, you can only apply for one visa at a time. You can apply for either Subclass 189 or Subclass 190 based on your eligibility and preferences.
2. Which visa is better, Subclass 189 or Subclass 190?
There is no "better" visa, as it depends on your circumstances and preferences. If you meet the eligibility requirements for both visas, you may choose based on your preference for state nomination or the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia.
3. Can I apply for a Subclass 190 visa if I am not nominated by a state or territory government?
No, you must be nominated by a state or territory government to apply for a Subclass 190 visa. Each state and territory has its nomination criteria and application process.
4. Do I need to have a job offer to apply for Subclass 189 or Subclass 190 visa?
No, you do not need a job offer to apply for either visa. However, having a job offer can increase your chances of being selected for a Subclass 189 visa and can also be useful in meeting the nomination requirements for Subclass 190 visa.
5. Can I change my visa type after I have submitted my application?
No, you cannot change your visa type after you have submitted your application. If you wish to change your visa type, you must withdraw your application and submit a new application for the desired visa. However, this may have implications for your eligibility and processing times.
Finally, Subclass 189 and 190 Visa: Which Visa Should You Apply For?
In conclusion, choosing between Subclass 189 and the 190 visas depends on your circumstances and preferences. Here are some key takeaways to help you make an informed decision:
- Subclass 189 visa is for applicants who do not have a state or territory nomination and prefer the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia.
- Subclass 190 visa is for applicants with a state or territory nomination who prefer living and working in a specific state or territory.
- Both visas require applicants to meet the eligibility requirements, including age, English language proficiency, skills assessment, and points test.
- Applicants must also consider each visa's processing times and benefits and drawbacks before deciding.
- It is important to thoroughly research and understand the requirements of each visa before applying to ensure a successful and smooth application process.
