189 vs 190 vs 491: Which Australia PR Pathway Is Best for You?

When planning your Australia PR visa, choosing between 189 vs 190 vs 491 can be challenging. Each visa has different eligibility requirements, benefits, and long-term outcomes under the Australian skilled migration program.
With expert guidance from Upright Migration Consultants, known as one of the best migration consultants in Melbourne, you can select the right Australia PR pathway based on your profile, points score, and occupation demand.
Understanding Australia PR Visa Options
Australia offers multiple skilled migration visas, but the most popular options are Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491 visas.
Subclass 189 Visa – Skilled Independent Visa Australia
The Subclass 189 visa Australia is a points-tested Australia PR visa that does not require state or employer sponsorship.
Who Should Apply for 189 Visa?
- Applicants with high points scores
- Occupations listed on the MLTSSL
- Candidates looking for full flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia
Key Benefits
- Direct Permanent Residency
- No state or regional restrictions
- Ideal for highly skilled professionals
Due to limited invitations, this visa is highly competitive under Australian skilled migration.
Subclass 190 Visa – Skilled Nominated Visa Australia
The Subclass 190 visa Australia requires state nomination, providing 5 additional points toward your PR application.
Who Should Apply for 190 Visa?
- Applicants willing to live in a specific Australian state
- Candidates with occupations on state demand lists
- Those seeking direct PR with higher chances than 189
Key Benefits
- Direct Australia PR
- State support and nomination
- Better invitation chances compared to 189
Subclass 491 Visa – Skilled Work Regional Visa Australia
The Subclass 491 visa Australia is a regional skilled migration visa offering 15 extra points and a pathway to PR.
Who Should Apply for 491 Visa?
- Applicants with lower points
- Candidates open to regional Australia
- Occupations in regional demand lists
Key Benefits
- Higher invitation chances
- Clear pathway to PR through Subclass 191
- Ideal option for Australia PR from India
189 vs 190 vs 491 – Which Visa Is Best for You?
| Profile Type | Best Australia PR Pathway |
| High points & independent | Subclass 189 visa |
| State support & direct PR | Subclass 190 visa |
| Lower points & higher success | Subclass 491 visa |
There is no single best visa — only the best Australia PR visa for your profile.
Why Choose Upright Migration Consultants?
Upright Migration Consultants is a trusted name in Australia PR visa services, recognized as one of the best migration consultants in Melbourne.
Our Expertise
✔️ MARA-registered migration agents
✔️ Personalized Australia PR eligibility check
✔️ High success rate in skilled migration Australia cases
✔️ Transparent and ethical visa processing
Head Office: Melbourne, Australia
India Branch: Chandigarh
As experienced Australia PR consultants in Melbourne and Chandigarh, we assist clients worldwide with accurate guidance and end-to-end visa support.
Start Your Australia PR Journey Today
Confused between 189 vs 190 vs 491 visas?
Let Upright Migration Consultants guide you toward the most suitable Australia PR pathway.
>> Book a consultation today
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Upright Migration Consultants – Trusted Australia PR Consultants in Melbourne & Chandigarh
Frequently Asked Questions – 189 vs 190 vs 491 Australia PR
1. What is the main difference between 189, 190, and 491 visas?
The main difference between 189 vs 190 vs 491 lies in nomination and PR status.
- 189 visa Australia: Independent visa with direct PR
- 190 visa Australia: State-nominated visa with direct PR
- 491 visa Australia: Regional visa leading to PR
2. Which Australia PR visa is best for low points?
The Subclass 491 visa Australia is suitable for applicants with lower points, as it provides 15 additional points and higher invitation chances under Australian skilled migration.
3. Is Subclass 190 better than Subclass 189?
Both visas serve different profiles.
- 189 visa is ideal for candidates with very high points
- 190 visa suits applicants seeking state nomination and improved invitation prospects
4. Can I get permanent residency through the 491 visa?
Yes. The Subclass 491 visa offers a pathway to PR through Subclass 191 after meeting regional residence and income requirements for three years.
5. Which visa gives more points for Australia PR?
- 189 visa – No additional points
- 190 visa – 5 additional points
- 491 visa – 15 additional points
This makes 491 visa Australia beneficial for applicants needing higher points.
6. Can I move anywhere in Australia on a 190 visa?
Applicants must initially live and work in the nominating state, after which flexibility may be available depending on state conditions.
7. Which Australia PR visa is easier to obtain?
The Subclass 491 visa Australia generally has higher invitation chances due to regional demand, depending on occupation and points score.
8. Why choose Upright Migration Consultants for Australia PR?
Upright Migration Consultants, one of the best migration consultants in Melbourne, provides:
- MARA-registered migration agents
- Tailored Australia PR strategies
- End-to-end visa assistance
- Support from Melbourne and Chandigarh offices
9. Do you offer Australia PR services from India?
Yes. Through our Chandigarh branch, we assist applicants pursuing Australia PR from India with professional guidance and transparent processes.
10. How can I check my Australia PR eligibility?
You can book an Australia PR eligibility assessment with Upright Migration Consultants, trusted Australia PR consultants in Melbourne and Chandigarh.
