How to apply for a Skilled visa (subclass 189/190/491) in Australia
Skilled visas in Australia are points-tested visas requiring an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, an invitation, and a visa application within 60 days. The main subclasses are 189 (Independent), 190 (State Nominated), and 491 (Skilled Work Regional). The visas are governed by the Migration Act 1958 (Cth) and Schedule 2 of the Migration Regulations 1994 (Cth).
The framework
Skilled visas are governed by the Migration Act 1958 (Cth) and Schedule 2 of the Migration Regulations 1994 (Cth). The points test is set out in regulations 2.26AC and the relevant Schedule 6D criteria.
The process
Confirm your occupation is on the relevant list
Check the Department of Home Affairs skilled occupation lists (MLTSSL, STSOL, ROL) for your occupation. Different visa subclasses are tied to different lists.
Obtain a positive skills assessment
Contact the relevant assessing authority for your occupation (e.g. ACS for IT, EA for engineering, VETASSESS for general professions) and obtain a positive skills assessment.
Take an English language test
Take an approved English language test (IELTS, PTE, OET, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge) and aim for a score that maximises your points. Higher scores attract more points under Schedule 6D.
Calculate your points
Calculate your points using the points test in regulation 2.26AC. Points come from age, English, qualifications, work experience, partner skills, regional study, and other factors. The current minimum is generally 65.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
Lodge an EOI through SkillSelect (online), specifying your occupation, points claim, and visa subclasses you are eligible for. EOIs are valid for up to 2 years.
Seek state/territory nomination (190 or 491)
For 190 (state nominated) or 491 (regional), seek nomination from a state or territory government. Each jurisdiction has its own occupation lists and requirements.
Receive an invitation to apply
If your EOI is competitive, the Department issues an invitation to apply via SkillSelect. You then have 60 days to lodge the visa application.
Lodge the visa application
Lodge the visa application through ImmiAccount within 60 days of the invitation. Pay the visa application charge and provide all supporting evidence.
Health and character checks
Complete health examinations through a Bupa Medical Visa Services panel doctor and provide police clearances for every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
Decision and obligations
The Department either grants or refuses. The 189 is permanent on grant. The 190 requires you to settle in the nominating state. The 491 is a 5-year provisional visa with a pathway to PR (subclass 191) after 3 years of regional work.
Forms and templates
- SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Skills assessment (relevant authority)
Common mistakes
- Inflating points claims
- Lodging without a positive skills assessment
- Missing the 60-day visa application deadline after invitation
- Choosing the wrong subclass for your occupation
- Not understanding 190/491 settlement obligations
Get this process right with Quillio
Quillio can help calculate your points score, prepare your EOI summary, and organise evidence by points category. See /practice-areas/migration-law or start a free trial.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Skilled visa programs change frequently. Engage a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer for tailored advice.
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