189 vs 491: published differences
Key published differences between subclasses 189, 190 and 491, side by side.
| Feature | Skilled Independent (189) | Skilled Work Regional (491) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa type | Permanent | Provisional |
| Nomination / sponsor | None | State or territory nomination, or relative sponsorship |
| Where you can live and work | Anywhere in Australia | Designated regional area |
| Permanent residence | Permanent on grant | Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191), after 3 years |
| Minimum points | 65 | 65 |
| Visa application charge (main applicant) | AUD 6,135 | AUD 6,140 |
| Processing time | Varies; see the official processing time guide | Varies; see the official processing time guide |
| Source and data verified | Subclass 189 (Department of Home Affairs) · | Subclass 491 (Department of Home Affairs) · |
Charges are the "from" amounts the Department of Home Affairs publishes for the main applicant. Concessions apply in limited circumstances. Additional applicants and the second instalment (for applicants without functional English) are not included. Processing times are not fixed: the Department publishes a guide based on recently decided applications.
Charges checked against the Department of Home Affairs visa pages on 10 October 2026.