Updated: 11 October 2026
Australia’s skilled migration program allows eligible workers to live and work in Australia based on their qualifications, work experience, English language ability and other personal circumstances.
For skilled workers who want to migrate to Australia without relying on an employer to sponsor them, the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program provides several pathways to permanent residency.
The three main points-tested skilled visas are:
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189): A permanent visa that does not require employer sponsorship or state nomination.
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): A permanent visa requiring nomination by an Australian state or territory government.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491): A five-year provisional visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory, or sponsored by an eligible family member, with a pathway to permanent residency.
Although these visas share many eligibility requirements, they operate differently. Choosing the appropriate visa depends on your occupation, points score, eligibility for state nomination and willingness to live in regional Australia.
In this guide, we explain how Australia’s skilled migration system works in 2026, including the points test, eligibility requirements, application process, visa costs and pathways to permanent residency.
What Is a Skilled Visa?
A skilled visa allows eligible individuals to migrate to Australia based on their professional skills, qualifications and other attributes.
Unlike employer-sponsored visas, the General Skilled Migration program does not require applicants to have an Australian employer willing to sponsor them.
Instead, applicants are assessed against eligibility criteria and a points-based selection system administered through SkillSelect, the Department of Home Affairs’ online skilled migration platform.
Points are awarded for factors including age, English language proficiency, skilled employment experience, educational qualifications and certain partner attributes.
The purpose of the system is to select skilled migrants who can contribute to Australia’s labour market and economy.
However, not all skilled visas provide immediate permanent residency. The subclass 189 and 190 visas are permanent visas, whereas the subclass 491 visa is provisional and provides a potential pathway to permanent residency through the subclass 191 visa.
For a broader introduction to these pathways, visit our Skilled Independent Visas page.
Which Skilled Visa Should You Apply For?
The main consideration is whether you qualify for independent skilled migration, require state or territory nomination, or are prepared to live in a designated regional area.
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
| Visa type | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional |
| Duration | Permanent | Permanent | 5 years |
| Employer sponsorship | Not required | Not required | Not required |
| State nomination | Not required | Required | Required unless eligible family-sponsored |
| Minimum points | 65 | 65 | 65 |
| Nomination points | None | 5 | 15 |
| Location | Anywhere in Australia | State/territory nomination commitments | Designated regional Australia |
| Permanent residency | Immediate | Immediate | Potentially through subclass 191 |
The 65-point minimum includes any applicable nomination or sponsorship points.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent visa for skilled workers who do not require sponsorship by an employer, state government or family member.
It allows successful applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia.
The main advantage of the subclass 189 is flexibility. Once granted, you are not tied to a particular employer or state.
However, the visa is competitive, and applicants must receive an invitation to apply through SkillSelect.
The minimum eligibility threshold is 65 points, although applicants in some occupations may require substantially more points to receive an invitation.
The subclass 189 may be suitable if you have a high points score, an eligible occupation and wish to maintain flexibility over where you live and work in Australia.
Learn more about the subclass 189 visa.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is also a permanent residency visa.
However, applicants must first obtain nomination from an Australian state or territory government.
State nomination provides an additional five points towards the skilled migration points test.
For example, an applicant with 60 points from their personal attributes may reach the 65-point threshold after receiving state nomination.
Each state and territory has its own nomination criteria, which may take into account matters such as occupation, employment, location, work experience and commitment to living in the nominating jurisdiction.
Applicants may also need to demonstrate that their occupation is in demand in the particular state or territory.
State nomination is competitive and meeting the published requirements does not guarantee selection.
Although subclass 190 visa holders become permanent residents and can generally live and work anywhere in Australia, applicants should take seriously the settlement commitments made to their nominating state or territory.
Learn more about the subclass 190 visa.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) provides a pathway for skilled workers willing to live, work and study in designated regional areas of Australia.
The subclass 491 is a provisional visa valid for five years.
To qualify for the invited pathway, applicants must either:
- Receive nomination from a state or territory government; or
- Be sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
Eligible applicants receive an additional 15 points under the skilled migration points test.
For example, an applicant with 50 points from their personal attributes may reach the 65-point threshold through regional nomination or eligible family sponsorship.
Visa holders must comply with conditions requiring them to live, work and study in designated regional areas.
Importantly, regional Australia does not necessarily mean remote or rural Australia. Many major population centres, including Adelaide, Perth, Newcastle and Wollongong, are classified as designated regional areas for skilled migration purposes.
After holding the subclass 491 visa for at least three years, eligible applicants may apply for permanent residency through the subclass 191 visa.
Learn more about the subclass 491 visa.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a Skilled Visa?
Although the subclass 189, 190 and 491 visas have different nomination requirements, they share several important eligibility criteria.
For the points-tested pathways, applicants generally must:
- Be under 45 years of age when invited to apply.
- Nominate an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Obtain a suitable skills assessment for that occupation.
- Demonstrate at least Competent English.
- Achieve at least 65 points under the skilled migration points test.
- Submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect.
- Receive an invitation to apply.
- Meet the applicable health and character requirements.
Subclass 190 applicants must also obtain state or territory nomination, while subclass 491 applicants require eligible regional nomination or family sponsorship.
1. Occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
Applicants must nominate an occupation that appears on the relevant skilled occupation list for the visa they are pursuing.
The occupation must correspond to their qualifications, skills and employment experience.
Different occupation lists apply to different visas, and an occupation available for a subclass 190 or 491 visa may not necessarily be available for a subclass 189 visa.
Applicants should also consider whether their occupation is eligible for nomination by their preferred state or territory.
Selecting the correct occupation is one of the most important steps in a skilled migration application.
For example, an applicant working in an accounting-related role may need to determine whether their experience corresponds to Accountant (General), Management Accountant or another occupation.
The appropriate classification depends on the actual duties performed, not simply the applicant’s job title.
2. Skills Assessment
Most applicants must obtain a suitable skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their nominated occupation.
A skills assessment determines whether the applicant’s qualifications and professional experience satisfy the requirements for that occupation.
Different assessing authorities apply different criteria.
Depending on the occupation, the assessment may involve reviewing:
- Educational qualifications.
- Employment references and evidence of duties.
- Relevant professional experience.
- Professional registrations or licences.
- English language requirements.
- Other occupation-specific evidence.
Applicants should carefully consider the requirements of the assessing authority before lodging their assessment.
A successful skills assessment for one occupation does not automatically establish eligibility for another occupation.
3. English Language Requirements
Applicants generally need to demonstrate at least Competent English.
However, higher English language proficiency can increase an applicant’s points score and improve their prospects of receiving an invitation.
Under the current points test:
- Competent English attracts 0 additional points.
- Proficient English attracts 10 points.
- Superior English attracts 20 points.
The Department accepts a range of approved English language tests, including IELTS and PTE Academic.
The approved tests and score requirements changed on 7 August 2025, meaning applicants should check the requirements applicable to their test date rather than relying on older score conversion tables.
Some passport holders can establish Competent English without undertaking an English language test.
Applicants should check the Department of Home Affairs’ English language requirements before arranging a test.
How Does the Skilled Migration Points Test Work?
The skilled migration points test is used to assess and rank applicants seeking invitations for points-tested skilled visas.
The minimum pass mark is 65 points.
Points are awarded for a combination of personal and professional attributes.
Skilled Migration Points Table (2026)
| Factor | Points available |
| Age | Up to 30 |
| English language proficiency | Up to 20 |
| Overseas skilled employment | Up to 15 |
| Australian skilled employment | Up to 20 |
| Educational qualifications | Up to 20 |
| Specialist educational qualification | 10 |
| Australian study requirement | 5 |
| Study in designated regional Australia | 5 |
| Credentialled community language | 5 |
| Professional Year in Australia | 5 |
| Partner or single-applicant points | Up to 10 |
| State nomination – subclass 190 | 5 |
| Regional nomination or sponsorship – subclass 491 | 15 |
The points categories are subject to specific eligibility requirements. For example, a combined maximum of 20 points can be claimed for Australian and overseas skilled employment experience.
Applicants cannot simply add together every maximum shown in the table.
Is 65 Points Enough to Receive an Invitation?
Not necessarily.
Although 65 points is the minimum eligibility threshold, reaching that score does not guarantee an invitation to apply.
The actual score required to receive an invitation depends on a range of factors, including:
- The applicant’s nominated occupation.
- The number of applicants competing for invitations.
- Government migration priorities.
- Available places within the relevant visa program.
- State and territory nomination criteria.
- The applicant’s points score and other applicable selection factors.
For some occupations, applicants with 65 points may have limited prospects of receiving an invitation. Other occupations may be selected at lower competitive thresholds.
Applicants should therefore distinguish between meeting the minimum eligibility requirements and having a realistic prospect of receiving an invitation.
How Can You Increase Your Points Score?
Depending on your circumstances, possible ways to increase your points include:
- Improving your English language results.
- Gaining additional eligible skilled employment experience.
- Completing an eligible Australian qualification.
- Obtaining recognition for an eligible community language.
- Completing an eligible Professional Year program.
- Claiming eligible partner points.
- Obtaining state nomination or regional nomination.
For example, improving from Competent English to Superior English can add 20 points to an application.
Similarly, state nomination under subclass 190 adds five points, while eligible nomination or sponsorship under subclass 491 adds 15 points.
However, a higher score does not necessarily guarantee an invitation. Applicants should also consider occupation availability and the competitiveness of their preferred visa pathway.
How to Apply for a Skilled Visa in Australia
Skilled migration involves several stages, including occupation selection, skills assessment, submitting an Expression of Interest and receiving an invitation.
Step 1: Select Your Occupation
The first step is to identify an eligible occupation that accurately reflects your qualifications and employment experience.
You should also confirm that the occupation is available for the visa subclass you intend to pursue.
Step 2: Obtain a Suitable Skills Assessment
Apply to the relevant assessing authority and provide the necessary documents demonstrating your qualifications and work experience.
The requirements and processing times differ between assessing authorities.
Step 3: Assess Your Points and English Language Eligibility
Calculate your likely points score and determine whether an English language test or additional evidence is required.
If your score is below 65, consider whether there are lawful ways to improve it before proceeding.
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
An Expression of Interest is submitted through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system.
An EOI records information about your occupation, qualifications, employment history, English ability and other points claims.
An EOI is not a visa application, and there is no government charge for submitting one.
Importantly, submitting an EOI does not guarantee that you will receive an invitation.
Step 5: Apply for State or Territory Nomination, if Required
If you are pursuing a subclass 190 or state-nominated subclass 491 visa, you must satisfy the relevant state or territory nomination process.
This may involve an additional application, registration of interest or other selection process.
Each jurisdiction sets its own eligibility criteria and nomination priorities, which can change during the migration program year.
Step 6: Receive an Invitation to Apply
If selected, you will receive an invitation to lodge a visa application.
You generally have 60 days from the invitation date to lodge your skilled visa application.
You must be able to substantiate the points and eligibility claims made in your EOI.
Applicants should therefore ensure that the information in their EOI is accurate and supported by appropriate evidence.
Step 7: Lodge Your Visa Application
Once invited, lodge the relevant visa application through ImmiAccount.
You will need to provide supporting documents, which may include:
- Passport and identity documents.
- Skills assessment outcome.
- English language evidence.
- Employment references and records.
- Educational qualifications.
- Evidence supporting points claims.
- State nomination details, where applicable.
- Health and character documentation.
- Documents relating to accompanying family members.
The Department will assess the application against the legislative requirements before making a decision.
How Does State Nomination Work?
State and territory nomination is relevant to the subclass 190 and subclass 491 visas.
Each Australian state and territory operates its own nomination program to attract skilled workers who can contribute to its economy and workforce.
Although the Commonwealth Government grants the visas, states and territories determine which eligible applicants they will nominate.
Nomination requirements may consider:
- Whether an occupation is in demand.
- Employment or work experience in the jurisdiction.
- Current residence or employment location.
- Educational qualifications.
- Points score.
- Commitment to living and working in the jurisdiction.
- Other state-specific criteria.
Nomination places are limited, and state governments may alter their priorities or close particular pathways.
For example, an applicant who qualifies for a subclass 190 visa under Commonwealth migration legislation may still be ineligible for nomination by a particular state.
Applicants should investigate state nomination requirements before deciding which visa pathway to pursue.
Further information is available in our subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa guide.
Can a Subclass 491 Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?
Yes. The subclass 491 visa provides an established pathway to permanent residency through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191).
To qualify for the subclass 191 Regional Provisional stream, applicants generally must:
- Have held an eligible subclass 491 or 494 visa for at least three years.
- Have complied with the conditions attached to their eligible visa.
- Provide Australian Taxation Office notices of assessment for three income years out of the five-year period of their eligible visa.
- Satisfy the other applicable visa requirements, including health and character requirements.
Importantly, there is no minimum income threshold for the subclass 191 visa.
Although applicants must provide the required ATO notices of assessment, they are not required to demonstrate earnings of at least $53,900 per year.
This is an important distinction because older information about the subclass 191 pathway may refer to income thresholds that are no longer applicable.
Once granted, the subclass 191 provides permanent residency.
Applicants considering the subclass 491 visa should understand the regional residence conditions and plan their transition to permanent residency carefully.
For more information, see our subclass 491 visa guide.
How Much Does a Skilled Visa Cost in 2026?
The Department of Home Affairs charges a visa application fee for skilled migration applications.
As at October 2026, the standard base visa application charges for primary applicants are:
| Visa | Base application charge |
| Skilled Independent visa (189) | $6,135 |
| Skilled Nominated visa (190) | $6,140 |
| Skilled Work Regional visa (491) | $6,140 |
These charges are in Australian dollars and generally apply to the primary applicant.
Limited concessions are available for certain eligible applicants, including some Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens.
Additional government charges may apply for accompanying family members.
Applicants should also budget for other expenses, such as:
- Skills assessment fees.
- English language testing.
- Medical examinations.
- Police clearances.
- Document translations and certifications.
- State or territory nomination fees, where applicable.
- Professional legal or migration assistance.
Applicants who include family members aged 18 or over who cannot demonstrate Functional English may also be required to pay an additional second instalment visa charge.
Government fees are subject to change, so applicants should confirm the current amount using the Department of Home Affairs’ visa pricing estimator.
How Long Does a Skilled Visa Take?
The time required to obtain a skilled visa depends on two separate stages.
1. Waiting for an invitation
Before lodging a visa application, applicants may need to wait for an invitation through SkillSelect or for state or territory nomination.
This waiting period is unpredictable.
Some applicants may receive invitations relatively quickly, while others may wait considerably longer or never receive an invitation.
2. Processing the visa application
After an invitation has been received and a valid application lodged, the Department must assess the application.
Processing times depend on factors including the visa subclass, completeness of the application, health and character checks, processing priorities and the Department’s workload.
Published processing times can change and should not be treated as guaranteed.
Applicants can check the Department of Home Affairs’ visa processing time guide for current estimates.
Can You Get a Bridging Visa While Waiting for an Invitation?
No. Submitting an Expression of Interest does not constitute a visa application and does not entitle the applicant to a bridging visa.
This is particularly important for applicants already in Australia on a temporary visa.
If your existing visa is approaching expiry, you may need to consider alternative visa arrangements while waiting for an invitation.
Where a valid skilled visa application is subsequently lodged while the applicant is in Australia, a bridging visa may be available depending on the applicant’s circumstances and immigration status.
Applicants should obtain advice before allowing their existing visa to expire.
Can You Include Your Family in a Skilled Visa Application?
Yes. Skilled migration applicants can generally include eligible members of their family unit.
These may include:
- A spouse or de facto partner.
- Dependent children who satisfy the applicable requirements.
Adult family members may need to demonstrate Functional English or pay an additional visa charge.
Accompanying family members must also meet applicable health and character requirements.
It is important to properly document family relationships, particularly where a de facto partner is included in the application.
For more information about establishing a de facto relationship, see our Partner Visa information.
Are Changes Coming to Australia’s Skilled Migration Points Test?
The Australian Government has announced plans to reform the skilled migration points test.
The proposed reforms are intended to improve how Australia identifies and selects skilled migrants who can make a long-term contribution to the economy.
The Government’s 2026–27 Budget confirmed its intention to reform the points test, with greater emphasis on matters such as education, skills and age.
However, proposed policy reforms should not be confused with changes that have commenced under migration legislation.
As at October 2026, the existing points-tested framework continues to apply to subclass 189, 190 and 491 applications.
Applicants should therefore assess their eligibility under the current rules rather than assume that proposed future changes will apply to their circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skilled Visas
What Is the Easiest Skilled Visa to Get in Australia?
There is no single skilled visa that is easiest for every applicant.
The most appropriate pathway depends on your occupation, points score, qualifications, work experience and willingness to live in regional Australia.
For some applicants, state nomination under subclass 190 or regional nomination under subclass 491 may provide more realistic opportunities than the subclass 189 visa.
However, each pathway has its own eligibility and selection requirements.
Can I Apply for a Skilled Visa Without a Job Offer?
Yes. The subclass 189, 190 and 491
