Australia Subclass 189 vs 190 Visa — Which PR Stream to Choose?
Both Subclass 189 and 190 lead to Australian PR. 189 is independent (any state). 190 is state-nominated (commitment to one state). Here's which suits you better.
Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)
No state commitment, fully mobile
Pros
- Permanent residency from day 1
- Settle anywhere in Australia
- No state commitment
- Include family on same visa
Cons
- Higher points needed (95-100+ for most occupations)
- ROL list is very narrow
- Infrequent invitation rounds currently
- Cost
- AUD 4,640
- Timeline
- 6-12 months
- Best For
- Very high point scorers (95+)
Subclass 190 (State Nominated)
5 extra points, 2-year state commitment
Pros
- State nomination = 5 extra points
- Bigger occupation list (CSOL + MLTSSL)
- PR from day 1
- More frequent invitations
Cons
- Commit to live/work in nominating state 2 years
- Each state has own criteria (work experience, salary, etc.)
- Application fee to state + DHA
- Cost
- AUD 4,640 + state fee (AUD 300)
- Timeline
- 6-12 months
- Best For
- Points 85-95 with specific state demand
Key Differences at a Glance
| Factor | Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) | Subclass 190 (State Nominated) |
|---|---|---|
| Points needed | 95-100+ | 85-95 (incl. 5 bonus) |
| Mobility | Any state | Nominated state for 2 years |
| Occupation list | MLTSSL | MLTSSL + CSOL |
Choose Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) if...
Choose 189 if your points are 95+ and you want full mobility.
Choose Subclass 190 (State Nominated) if...
Choose 190 if you need the 5-point boost or your occupation is only on state lists.
Our Verdict
Most Indian applicants now choose 190 due to points competition. 189 is only realistic for top scorers (95+) in MLTSSL occupations.
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Our experts review your education, experience, English scores, and family situation to give a personalized recommendation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better — Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) or Subclass 190 (State Nominated)?
Most Indian applicants now choose 190 due to points competition. 189 is only realistic for top scorers (95+) in MLTSSL occupations.
How much does Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) cost compared to Subclass 190 (State Nominated)?
Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent): AUD 4,640. Subclass 190 (State Nominated): AUD 4,640 + state fee (AUD 300).
Who should choose Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)?
Choose 189 if your points are 95+ and you want full mobility.
Who should choose Subclass 190 (State Nominated)?
Choose 190 if you need the 5-point boost or your occupation is only on state lists.
Can SureshotVisa help me decide?
Yes. Our experts analyze your profile (education, experience, English scores, family situation, budget) and recommend the best option for YOU. Talk to us on WhatsApp to get a personalized roadmap.
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