Australia continues to be a top destination for skilled professionals looking for better career opportunities and permanent settlement. Under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, two visas often compared are the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa and the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa.

With migration policy updates expected in 2026, including structured invitation rounds and changing state nomination priorities, understanding how these two visas differ is more important than ever. This guide explains their key differences, eligibility rules, and which option may suit you best.

Overview of Subclass 189 and Subclass 491 Visas

Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

The Subclass 189 visa is a permanent residency visa that does not require sponsorship from a state, territory, or family member. Selection is based entirely on your points score and occupation demand.

Once granted, you can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia. You also gain access to Medicare and can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements. From 2026, invitations for this visa are expected to be issued on a quarterly basis, making the process more predictable.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa

The Subclass 491 visa is a temporary visa valid for five years, designed for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia. To apply, you must be nominated by an Australian state or territory or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a regional area.

Visa holders must live and work only in designated regional areas. After completing three years of regional residence and work and meeting income requirements, applicants can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.

Key Differences Between Subclass 189 and Subclass 491 Visas

While both visas fall under Australia’s skilled migration system, they differ significantly in terms of sponsorship, residency conditions, and pathways to permanent residency.

Subclass 189 offers permanent residency from day one and complete freedom to live anywhere in Australia, but it is highly competitive and depends heavily on your points score.

Subclass 491, on the other hand, is a provisional visa with regional conditions. It often provides better chances of invitation due to additional points from state or family sponsorship, but permanent residency is achieved later.

Key Comparison Points

  • Visa type:
    189 is permanent; 491 is temporary with a PR pathway
  • Sponsorship:
    189 requires none; 491 requires state, territory, or family sponsorship
  • Location rules:
    189 allows settlement anywhere; 491 restricts you to regional areas
  • PR pathway:
    189 grants PR immediately; 491 leads to PR via Subclass 191
  • Invitation process (2026):
    189 follows quarterly rounds; 491 depends on state nomination availability

What’s Changing in 2026 for Subclass 189 and 491 Visas?

Regular Invitation Rounds for Subclass 189

From 2026, Subclass 189 invitations are expected to be issued every three months. This structured approach helps applicants plan better and understand when selection rounds occur.

Occupation-Based Prioritisation

Occupations are being ranked based on Australia’s labour market needs. High-demand roles such as healthcare, construction, engineering, IT, and education are likely to receive higher priority for invitations.

Increased Focus on Skill Shortages

Australia’s migration strategy is now more closely aligned with real skill shortages. Applicants in priority sectors may see better outcomes for both the 189 and 491 visas.

Changes to State Nomination Allocations for 491

State and territory nomination numbers for the Subclass 491 visa may increase or decrease depending on regional workforce needs. This directly impacts how competitive state nominations become.

Higher Competition Despite Same Points Threshold

While the minimum points requirement remains 65, competition continues to rise. Strong English proficiency, skilled work experience, qualifications, and partner skills play a major role in improving selection chances.

Eligibility Requirements for Subclass 189 and Subclass 491

Common Requirements

Applicants for both visas must:

  • Score at least 65 points
  • Obtain a positive skills assessment
  • Meet English language requirements
  • Be under the age limit at the time of invitation

Key Differences in Eligibility

  • Subclass 189: No sponsorship required; selection is based purely on points and occupation demand
  • Subclass 491: Requires state or family sponsorship and commitment to live and work in a regional area

Which Visa Should You Choose?

Choose Subclass 189 If:

  • You have a strong and competitive points score
  • You want permanent residency immediately
  • You prefer the freedom to live anywhere in Australia

Choose Subclass 491 If:

  • You are open to living in a regional area
  • You want extra points through nomination or sponsorship
  • You are comfortable with a temporary visa that leads to PR

How to Apply for Subclass 189 and Subclass 491 Visas

  1. Check if your occupation is on the skilled occupation list
  2. Obtain a positive skills assessment
  3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
  4. Apply for state nomination (for Subclass 491) or wait for selection (for Subclass 189)
  5. Receive an invitation to apply
  6. Lodge your visa application with required documents
  7. Receive visa approval and plan your move to Australia

Final Thoughts

Both Subclass 189 and Subclass 491 visas offer excellent opportunities to build a future in Australia. The right choice depends on your points score, occupation, location preference, and long-term goals. With the 2026 updates focusing more on skills and regional development, understanding these differences can help you make a smarter migration decision.

Ready to take the next step toward your Australia PR dream? Get expert guidance today and choose the visa pathway that fits your profile best.