General Skilled Migration (GSM) Visas
Each of the 3 visa subclasses has distinctive differences and similarities. All 3 are point-tested and invitation visas.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)
Subclass 491
This is a provisional visa that allows skilled workers and their families to live, work and study in Australia, and it may lead you to obtain a PR in Australia. Holders of this visa will need to commit to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for a period of time, before applying for a PR. It requires an Australian state or territory government agency nomination or be sponsored by an eligible family member residing in a designated regional area.
Skilled Nominated
Subclass 190
This visa lets nominated skilled workers and their families to live, work and study in Australia as permanent residents. It requires an Australian state or territory government agency nomination
Skilled Independent
Subclass 189
This visa lets invited skilled workers or New Zealand Citizens and their families to live, work and study permanently anywhere in Australia. It requires an invitation.
| Visa Requirement and some of the common eligibility | 491 | 190 | 189 |
| Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Have a positive skills assessment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Lodge and expression of interest and be invited to apply | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Aged limit 18 – 45 years old* | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Have a min. of 65 points | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Have competent (min.) level of English knowledge | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Be nomination by a region, an Aus. state or territory gov. agency | Yes | Yes | – |
| or be sponsored by an eligible relative | Yes | – | – |
| Meet health and character requirements | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Our intent is to provide you only with a general overview information of these visa subclasses and/or any other migration matter. This information may not be up to date with migration regulations and legislations as migration law is very dynamic. If you intend to apply for this visa, we strongly recommend you schedule a migration consultation to discuss any applicable factors under your specific circumstances.