Skilled Migration
Skilled Migration Services
Australia’s skilled migration program is designed to fill gaps in the local workforce — creating real opportunities for qualified professionals, tradespeople and graduates to build a life in Australia. At Amity Lawyers, our immigration lawyers help you understand your options, choose the right visa and put together an application that gives you the best chance of success.
SUBCLASS 189
Skilled Independent Visa
This is Australia’s independent skilled visa — you don’t need an employer or a state government to sponsor you. If your occupation is on the MLTSSL and your points score is competitive, you can register your interest through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation to apply. It’s the most flexible pathway because it lets you live and work anywhere in Australia once granted.
From 189,000 points (indicative)
SUBCLASS 190
Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 works similarly to the 189, but you apply with the support of a state or territory government nomination. That nomination adds 5 points to your score — which can make a real difference if your points are close to the cut-off. Different states have different occupation lists and criteria, so we help you identify which state gives you the strongest chance.
Requires state nomination
SUBCLASS 491
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)
The 491 is a provisional visa that lets you live and work in a regional area of Australia for up to 5 years. You need to be nominated by a state or territory, or sponsored by a family member already living regionally. After 3 years of working and living in a regional area, you become eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Subclass 191. It’s a well-established and accessible route to a permanent visa.
3-year provisional + PR pathway
SUBCLASS 191
Permanent Skilled Regional Visa
The 191 is the permanent visa that follows the 491. Once you have spent 3 years living and working in a regional area — and met the minimum income requirement for at least one of those years — you can apply to make your residence in Australia permanent. There are no regional conditions after the visa is granted, meaning you can live anywhere in Australia.
Requires 3 yrs regional residence
GUIDE
Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL)
Before you can apply for a skilled visa, your occupation needs to appear on one of Australia’s skilled occupation lists. Which list it falls under determines which visas you are eligible for. The MLTSSL is required for the independent 189 visa, while the STSOL and ROL cover state-nominated and regional pathways. Not sure where your occupation sits? Our lawyers will check for you and explain your options clearly.