Australia remains one of the top destinations for skilled migrants, offering multiple pathways to Permanent Residency (PR). The two most popular routes are:
1️⃣ SkillSelect (Subclass 189/190/491)
2️⃣ State Nomination (Subclass 190/491)
But which one is right for you? This guide compares both options and helps you choose the best PR pathway in 2024.
1. SkillSelect (Points-Based PR System)
🔹 Subclass 189 (Independent Visa)
✔ No state sponsorship required
✔ Direct PR (no regional restrictions)
✔ Minimum 65 points (but 85+ usually needed in 2024)
✔ Processing time: 6-12 months
Best for: High-scoring candidates in high-demand occupations (IT, healthcare, engineering).
🔹 Subclass 190 (State-Nominated Visa)
✔ State sponsorship adds +5 points
✔ Must live in nominating state for 2 years
✔ Processing time: 8-14 months
Best for: Candidates with moderate points (65-85) who can commit to a specific state.
🔹 Subclass 491 (Regional Visa)
✔ State/Territory nomination adds +15 points
✔ Must live & work regionally for 3 years before PR
✔ Processing time: 6-10 months
Best for: Those willing to live in regional areas (e.g., Adelaide, Tasmania, Northern Territory).
2. State Nomination (190 & 491 Visas)
Each Australian state has different occupation lists and requirements. Here’s a quick comparison:
| State | Key Focus Areas | Minimum Points (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | IT, Healthcare, Engineering | 65+ (competitive) |
| Victoria | Health, STEM, Social Services | 85+ (high demand) |
| Queensland | Trades, Agriculture, Hospitality | 65-75 |
| Western Australia | Construction, Mining, Healthcare | 65 (WA graduates favored) |
| South Australia | Regional Jobs, International Graduates | 65 (lower for locals) |
📌 Pro Tip: Some states (like Tasmania & Northern Territory) have lower competition for 491 visas.
Which Pathway Should You Choose?
✅ Choose SkillSelect (189) if…
You have high points (85+)
You want full work rights anywhere in Australia
Your occupation is in national demand (e.g., nurses, software engineers)
✅ Choose State Nomination (190/491) if…
Your points are 65-85
You’re open to living in a specific state/region
Your job is on a state occupation list
3 Ways to Boost Your PR Chances in 2024
1. Improve Your Points
Retake PTE/IELTS (20 points for Superior English)
Get a Skills Assessment (e.g., ACS for IT, EA for Engineers)
Gain More Work Experience (5-8 years = +15 points)
2. Target State-Specific Opportunities
NSW & VIC → High-paying IT/health jobs
WA & QLD → Mining, construction, trades
TAS & SA → Easier nominations for regional visas
**3. Consider the 491 Visa Pathway
Lower competition than 189/190
Extra 15 points for nomination
Pathway to PR after 3 years
How Flyvisahub Can Help
✔ Free Points Calculator (See your exact score)
✔ State Nomination Strategy (We match you with the best state)
✔ Skills Assessment & Visa Filing (100% error-free)
📌 Want a personalized PR plan?
👉 [Get a Free Australia PR Consultation]
Final Verdict: SkillSelect vs. State Nomination?
High scorers (85+ points) → 189 Visa (fastest PR)
Moderate scorers (65-85 points) → 190 Visa (state-backed PR)
Flexible candidates → 491 Visa (regional route to PR)
🚀 Ready to apply? Let Flyvisahub’s MARAgents guide you—97% success rate!
[Book a Free Eligibility Check Today]
