If you're currently on a 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and are wondering whether you can transition to permanent residency through a 189 (Skilled Independent) or 190 (Skilled Nominated) visa, the good news is —yes,you can!
Let’s dive into the details.
189 Visa: Skilled Independent Pathway
The 189 visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa that doesn’t require employer sponsorship or state nomination. It’s ideal if you want flexibility in where you live and work in Australia.
To apply for a 189 visa while on a 482, you must:
Have an occupation on the MLTSSL (Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) — your job must be classified under this list.
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
Score at least 65 points on the points test (age, work experience, education, English proficiency, etc.).
Meet English language requirements--Competent English is the minimum,but Proficient or Superior English gets you extra points.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via Skill Select and wait for an invitation to apply.
Important Note:While holding a 482,you must still fulfill your 482 employer obligations until your 189 is granted. The 482 visa remains active until a decision is made on your PR application.
190 Visa: Skilled Nominated Pathway
The 190 visa is another permanent residency pathway, but this one requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. It’s an excellent choice if your occupation is in demand in a specific state.
To apply for a 190 visa while on a 482, you must:
Have an occupation on either the MLTSSL or STSOL (Short-Term Skilled Occupation List) — depending on the state.
Get a positive skills assessment for your occupation.
Score at least 65 points on the points test (the state nomination gives you an extra 5 points).
Achieve Competent English (minimum)-or Proficient/Superior English for bonus points.
Submit an EOI and select your preferred state/territory.
Receive a nomination and an invitation to apply-then you can lodge your 190 visa application.
Key Reminder:
You must continue working for your 482 employer until the 190 is granted (or your 482 expires).
An EOI is not a visa application-you need to wait for an invitation before applying for the 190.
If your 482 visa expires before you get an invitation,you’ll need to apply for another valid visa(e.g., another 482 or a 600 Visitor visa)or leave Australia.
Choosing Between the 189 and 190 Visa
189 Visa: Offers greater flexibility — no employer or state ties required. However, it’s highly competitive, especially for occupations in high demand.
190 Visa:Faster route to PR if your occupation aligns with a state’s needs. You must live and work in that state for a period after PR is granted.
Pro tip:If you qualify for both, submit EOIs for both the 189 and 190 to improve your chances.
Final Tips and Strategy:
Check your points score — make sure you meet the minimum 65 points.
Keep your skills assessment and English test up to date — they usually expire after 2-3 years.
Research state nomination requirements — some states have additional criteria (e.g., residing in the state or having a job offer).
Plan for your 482 expiration — don’t let it lapse while waiting for an invitation.
Need help calculating your points or figuring out which state is nominating your occupation? Let’s make your PR journey smoother and faster,contact us now.