Question 1

What are the Australian skilled visa subclasses?

Accepted Answer

The main points-tested skilled visa subclasses are 189 (Skilled Independent), 190 (Skilled Nominated), and 491 (Skilled Work Regional). Each targets different applicant profiles: the 189 requires no state sponsorship, the 190 requires state nomination, and the 491 is a provisional visa for regional areas with a pathway to the 191 permanent residence visa.

Question 2

What is the minimum points score for an Australian skilled visa?

Accepted Answer

The minimum points score to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect is 65 points. However, the minimum is not the same as competitive — in 2026, most invitations for the 189 visa require 85 or more points, and some state nomination programs for the 190 have their own thresholds.

Question 3

Do I need a job offer for an Australian skilled visa?

Accepted Answer

No. The Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas are all points-tested visas that do not require a job offer. However, having a skilled job offer in Australia can add 5 points to your score in some circumstances. Employer-sponsored pathways (482 and 186) are separate visa subclasses.

Question 4

How long does it take to get an Australian skilled visa?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary. After receiving an invitation from SkillSelect, most Subclass 189 applications are decided within 6–12 months. State nomination decisions (for 190 and 491) vary by state and can take weeks to months. The Department of Home Affairs publishes current processing times at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.

Question 5

Can my family come with me on an Australian skilled visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A partner and dependent children can be included as secondary applicants on a Subclass 189, 190, or 491 application. Secondary applicants must meet health and character requirements. On a 491 visa, secondary applicants are also required to live and work in the designated regional area.

Australian Skilled Visa Guides

How to Calculate Your Points Score for an Australian Skilled Visa (2026)

The Skills Assessment Process for Australian Migration — 2026 Guide

State Nomination vs. Skilled Independent: Which Pathway Fits Your Profile? (2026)

How to Read Australia's Occupation Lists: MLTSSL, STSOL and ROL — 2026

SkillSelect Explained: EOIs, Invitations, and the Points Test — 2026 Guide

Australian Skilled Visa Processing Times: What to Expect in 2026

Which Skills Assessing Authority Reviews Your Occupation? (2026 Update)

How to Strengthen Your Points Score for Australian Skilled Migration (2026)

The 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa: Eligibility, Process & Timeline — 2026

How Regional Migration Can Accelerate Your Path to Australian PR (2026)

Subclass 189 Visa Requirements — 2026 Guide

Subclass 190 Visa Requirements — 2026 Guide

Not sure which skilled migration pathway is right for you?