VisaChief 189 vs 190: which Australian visa is right for you?
The two main permanent skilled visas. The 189 needs no sponsor and you qualify on points alone; the 190 needs state or territory nomination, which adds 5 points but ties you to that state.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Skilled Independent visa (189) | Skilled Nominated visa (190) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Permanent / PR | Permanent / PR |
| Who it's for | Skilled workers with an eligible occupation who can qualify on points alone - no sponsor needed. | Skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory - nomination adds 5 points. |
| Government cost | ~$4,910 (main applicant) | ~$4,910 (main applicant) |
| Processing time | ~5-12 months | ~5-9 months |
| Length of stay | Permanent | Permanent |
| Where to apply | Onshore or offshore | Onshore or offshore |
| Work rights | Unlimited - full PR work rights | Unlimited - full PR work rights |
| Points-tested | Yes | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | This visa IS permanent residence. Pathway to citizenship after meeting residence requirements. | Permanent residence on grant. You commit to living and working in the nominating state (typically ~2 years). |
Which is right for you?
Skilled Independent visa (189)
Skilled workers with an eligible occupation who can qualify on points alone - no sponsor needed.
Full 189 guide →Skilled Nominated visa (190)
Skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory - nomination adds 5 points.
Full 190 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, 189 or 190?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Skilled Independent visa (189) is the lowest at ~$4,910 (main applicant). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, 189 or 190?
Indicatively Skilled Independent visa (189) is the quickest at ~5-12 months. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
Do all of these lead to permanent residence?
Yes. 189: This visa IS permanent residence. Pathway to citizenship after meeting residence requirements. 190: Permanent residence on grant. You commit to living and working in the nominating state (typically ~2 years).
What's the main difference between 189 and 190?
Skilled Independent visa (189) is for skilled workers with an eligible occupation who can qualify on points alone - no sponsor needed. Skilled Nominated visa (190) is for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory - nomination adds 5 points.