SkillSelect is not an application
Submitting an EOI signals interest. Only an invitation allows an application for the points-tested 189, 190 or 491 pathways.
AUSTRALIAN VISA PATHWAYS · OFFICIAL-SOURCE GUIDE
Skilled Migration Visas
Understand Australia’s independent, state-nominated and regional skilled pathways. Use the correct pathway, the right evidence and a realistic invitation strategy. Points-tested skilled migration involves more than meeting a minimum score.
THE DECISION FRAMEWORK
AssessCheck occupation & skills
01
EvidenceEnglish & documents
02
InterestSubmit SkillSelect EOI
03
NominationIf your stream needs it
04
OutcomeApplication & grant
05
Points-tested and regional pathways
Visa numbers are grouped by their actual function—not by outdated marketing names. Select a card for the full criteria and official sources.
PermanentSubclass 189Skilled IndependentThe points-tested pathway for skilled applicants who do not need state nomination, employer sponsorship or a family sponsor.View guide PermanentSubclass 190Skilled NominatedPermanent residence for skilled applicants nominated by an Australian state or territory and invited to apply.View guide ProvisionalSubclass 491Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)A regional provisional visa based on state or territory nomination or sponsorship by an eligible family member.View guide PermanentSubclass 191Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional)A permanent residence option for eligible holders of regional provisional visas, including subclasses 491 and 494.View guide
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Compare visa categories
| Subclass | Official name | Pathway type | Initial status / stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 189 | Skilled Independent | Permanent | Permanent residence |
| Subclass 190 | Skilled Nominated | Permanent | Permanent residence |
| Subclass 491 | Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) | Provisional | Up to 5 years |
| Subclass 191 | Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) | Permanent | Permanent residence |
Compare these broad characteristics first. The full guide pages explain stream-level exceptions and documentary requirements.
What has changed and what matters now
Regional does not mean permanent at grant
Subclass 491 is provisional; subclass 191 is a separate potential permanent step for eligible regional provisional holders.
Nomination is program-specific
Subclass 190 and the state-nominated 491 require relevant state or territory selection; program settings change.
Four checks before taking action
01
Choose a direction
Distinguish independent, employer and regional models.
02
Check eligibility
Examine occupation, skills, English, sponsorship and stream rules.
03
Build evidence
Create dated, consistent documentation for every claim.
04
Follow the official sequence
EOI, nomination, invitation or visa lodgement as the pathway requires.
ANSWERED
Before you decide on a route
A good visa comparison starts with evidence, work and residence conditions, not slogans.
Which skilled visa needs no state nomination?
In its points-tested stream, subclass 189 does not require nomination by a state or territory.
Does 65 points guarantee an invitation?
No. The threshold for eligibility and the points score at which invitations may occur are different.
Can 491 become permanent residence?
Eligible holders may later qualify to apply for subclass 191, but it does not happen automatically.
VERIFIABLE INFORMATION
Official evidence behind this overview
Home Affairs maintains the definitive program rules and changes. This page does not replace the official eligibility test.