Immigration Law
Skilled Visa (Subclass 189, 190 & 491)
Helping skilled professionals navigate Australia's points-tested migration pathways — from Expression of Interest through to permanent residency.
Australia's skilled migration program is one of the most competitive and complex in the world. The points-tested system rewards applicants with strong qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency — but navigating the Skilled Nominated (190), Skilled Independent (189), and Skilled Work Regional (491) pathways requires careful planning and expert legal guidance. At Legal Wave, our migration lawyers help you maximise your points score, prepare a compelling Expression of Interest, and manage every step of your application.
Skilled Visa Pathways
Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent
A permanent visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, family member, or state/territory. You must have an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and receive an invitation through SkillSelect. No state nomination is required.
Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated
A permanent visa requiring nomination from a state or territory government. Nomination attracts an additional five points in the points test. Each state and territory has its own occupation lists and requirements, and competition for nomination can be significant.
Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)
A provisional five-year visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in a designated regional area. Nomination can come from a state or territory or sponsorship from an eligible relative in a regional area. After three years, holders may be eligible for the permanent Subclass 191 visa.
Our Skilled Visa Process
Points Assessment and Strategy
We begin with a thorough assessment of your qualifications, work experience, English proficiency, and personal circumstances. We calculate your current points score, identify opportunities to increase it — such as improving your English test result, obtaining a skills assessment at a higher level, or including a partner's skills — and advise on the most suitable visa subclass for your situation.
Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority is a prerequisite for all skilled visas. We advise on which authority assesses your occupation, the documentation required, and how to present your experience to achieve the strongest possible outcome. We assist with gathering and organising your evidence before submission.
Expression of Interest (EOI)
We prepare and submit your Expression of Interest through SkillSelect, ensuring every field is completed accurately and your points score is maximised. We also advise on state and territory nomination strategies, including which states are currently inviting your occupation and what regional commitments may be required.
State or Territory Nomination
For the 190 and 491 visas, we guide you through the nomination process for your chosen state or territory. Each jurisdiction has its own application portal, occupation lists, and eligibility criteria. We ensure your nomination application meets all requirements and presents your circumstances compellingly.
Invitation and Application Lodgement
Once you receive an invitation to apply, you have 60 days to lodge your visa application. We prepare a complete and well-documented application, ensuring all forms are accurate and all supporting documents — including health examinations, police clearances, and skills assessment — are in order.
Visa Outcome and Next Steps
We monitor your application, respond to any requests from the Department, and notify you of the outcome. For 491 visa holders, we also advise on the pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa once regional residence and work requirements are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Build Your Future in Australia?
Our migration lawyers provide expert, personalised guidance throughout your skilled visa journey. Contact us today for an initial consultation.