About General Skilled Migration
General Skilled Migration (GSM) is the primary pathway for skilled workers to obtain Australian permanent residence. The GSM program covers three points-tested visas: subclass 189 Skilled Independent, subclass 190 Skilled Nominated, and subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional).
All three GSM visas require applicants to be under 45 years of age, have a positive skills assessment in an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list, demonstrate competent English (IELTS 6.0 each band or equivalent), and meet the health and character requirements. The points test awards up to 130 points based on age, English, qualifications, work experience, partner skills and state nomination.
Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a permanent residence visa that does not require employer sponsorship or state nomination. To be eligible, you must have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), score at least 65 points on the points test, and receive an invitation to apply through SkillSelect.
Invitations are issued in fortnightly SkillSelect rounds, with priority given to applicants in occupations with available ceiling space and those with the highest points scores. Current processing times are approximately 6-9 months from invitation.
Subclass 190 - Skilled Nominated
The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. State nomination adds 5 points to your points test score and unlocks additional occupation lists specific to each state's skill shortages.
Each state maintains its own occupation list and criteria. Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland typically have the largest demand, while South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory offer easier nomination pathways with additional incentives for regional migrants.
Subclass 491 - Skilled Work Regional
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) is a 5-year provisional visa for skilled workers who live and work in regional Australia. State or territory government nomination (or family sponsorship from an eligible relative in regional Australia) is required. The visa provides 15 points toward the points test.
After 3 years of living and working in a designated regional area, holders of subclass 491 can apply for the subclass 191 Permanent Residence visa. Regional areas include all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
SkillSelect Expression of Interest
All GSM applicants must first lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, an online system managed by the Department of Home Affairs. The EOI is valid for 2 years and can be updated at any time. Invitations to apply for a visa are issued based on occupation ceilings and points ranking.
EOIs are reviewed in SkillSelect rounds held every two weeks. Applicants with the highest points scores in occupations with available ceiling space are invited first.
How to Maximise Your Points Score
Strategic points maximisation can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation. Key levers include English proficiency (IELTS 8.0+ in each band scores 20 points), partner skills (10 points if your partner has competent English and a positive skills assessment), professional year programs (5 points), and state nomination (5-15 points).
Ausking assesses your profile before lodging the EOI and advises on the most cost-effective points maximisation strategy for your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 189, 190 and 491?
189 is permanent residence without nomination. 190 is permanent residence with state nomination (5 bonus points). 491 is a 5-year provisional visa with state or family nomination (15 bonus points), leading to permanent residence via subclass 191 after 3 years.
Can I apply for 189 while on a 482 employer-sponsore
d visa?
Yes, you can lodge an EOI for 189 while holding a 482 visa. However, you must cease work for your 482 sponsor if you are granted the 189 visa.
How long does it take to receive an invitation?
This varies by occupation and points score. High-demand occupations with high points scores may receive an invitation within weeks. Saturated occupations may take 6-12 months or longer.
What happens if my occupation is not on the skilled list?
If your occupation is not on a current skilled list, you cannot apply for a GSM visa. Alternatives include employer-sponsored visas (482/186), the Global Talent program (858), or studying in Australia to obtain a qualification in a listed occupation.
Start Your Skilled Migration Assessment
Book a free initial assessment with a registered migration agent. We will evaluate your profile, advise on the most suitable GSM visa subclass, and provide a realistic estimate of your invitation prospects.
Phone: +61 (03) 9670 7567 | Email: mel@auskingvisa.com