Australia Skilled Migration Visa

There are several visa options available for points-tested skilled workers seeking to live and work in Australia permanently, without the need for employer sponsorship.

These General Skilled Migration visas offer pathways for skilled workers to apply independently, be sponsored by a family member, or be nominated by a State or Territory government.

Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)

• A points-based visa for skilled workers not sponsored by an employer, state/territory, or family member.
• Allows holders to live and work permanently anywhere in Australia.
• Certain family members can be included in the application.

Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)

• A points-based visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government.
• Holders can live and work permanently across Australia.
• Certain family members can be included in the application.

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 489)

• A points-based visa for skilled workers nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by a relative living in a designated regional area of Australia.
• Valid for four years, with visa holders required to live and work in a specified regional area.
• Visa holders who have lived and worked full-time for at least two years in a specified regional area can apply for Permanent Residency.
• Certain family members can be included in the application.
• This visa will be closed and replaced by the 491 Visa on November 16, 2019.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)

• Replacing the 489 Visa from November 16, 2019.
• A points-tested visa for applicants nominated by a state or territory government agency, or sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.