Subclass 189, 190 & 491 Visa: What it Means For Pharmacists, Doctors & Healthcare Professionals

Written by

Milan Verma

Reviewed by

Dr. Akram Ahmad
Subclass 189, 190 & 491 Visa
Created At : Jun 20, 2025 Updated At : Jun 20, 2025 7 min read

Australia’s Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa continues to be a leading pathway to permanent residency. In 2023–24, over 8,300 invitations were issued for this visa, with 10,073 state nominations granted, highlighting strong demand and competitive selection. Additionally, 90% of 190 visa applications are now processed within eight months, a marked improvement from previous processing times.

By mid-2024, Australia's migration program has witnessed 740,000 new arrivals, which is led by the government's efficient and permanent migration streams, focusing on long-term, skill-based immigration. If you’re a healthcare professional dreaming of building your career in Australia, this visa opens the door to a wide range of opportunities. 

Did you know: Australia offers one of the world’s fastest PR pathways for skilled talent!

In this blog, we will go through what every doctor, pharmacist & other healthcare professionals need to know about the subclass 190 visa. Exams, benefits, application process, and expert tips to strengthen your application. Let’s dig in.

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

Pharmacists and doctors, the 190 visa opens exciting opportunities! Clear a licensure exam that’s the best suitable to your career field, such as OPRA or AMC exams, meet registration requirements, and you could secure state nomination and build a rewarding future in Australia.

What is a Skilled Nominated Visa? 

Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent residence visa granted to overseas skilled workers to live and work anywhere in Australia. What makes this visa different is that you should first be nominated by the Australian state or territory. This visa is designed for people whose skills are in demand in certain states or territories of Australia. If a state or territory sees your profile as eligible, they can nominate you, and then you may receive an invitation to apply.

How Many Points Do You Need for the 190 Visa?

Applicants usually require at least 65 points on point tests, although high scores improve their opportunities. The subclass 190 visa offers a direct pathway for permanent residence, with eligibility for citizenship after 4 years of residence (including 12 months as a permanent resident), which has benefits such as Medicare access(facilitating free healthcare facilities in Australia), study options, and the ability to sponsor family members. 

Once you get nominated and complete the points test, you can apply for this visa and take the next step towards becoming a permanent resident.

Note: The 190 visa grants PR immediately, you don’t need to wait 5 years for PR.

What takes about 4 - 5 years is becoming eligible for citizenship after holding PR and meeting residency requirements.

PR Pathway for Pharmacists

The Australian Pharmacy Council (APC) regulates the OPRA exam for overseas skilled pharmacists to practice effectively in Australia, and it is the easiest pathway to get a PR visa a pharmacists. Below, we have mentioned the step-by-step process of the Subclass 190 PR visa application for pharmacists: 

Qualification: Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) or Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), including mark sheets and degree certificates. And you are a registered pharmacist in your home country.

Eligibility Check: Initial Skill Assessment, it is the first step to check if you are eligible to take the OPRA exam (Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment). This step is important to move forward with your visa application.

Licensure Examination: The OPRA exam is a test for international candidates who want to practice in Australia to ensure they meet the Australian Healthcare System. And the best part is you can take this exam from your home country.

English Proficiency: To all English-speaking countries, English proficiency is a must; you can either take any of these with a minimum score of PTE 66/OET B/IELTS 7. 

SkillSelect: Create your account on the SkillSelect website. 

Expression of Interest: Once you have completed both the exams and registered at SkillSelect, you can now fill out the EOI form. Once done, it will be assessed by the state or territory. 

Visa Invitation: After clearing all the steps, you will receive a confirmation of your Skill Nominated (Subclass 190) visa application.

Note: Pharmacists are eligible for 190 & 491 skill visas.

Also Read: OPRA Exam Eligibility

PR Pathway for Doctors

The Australian Medical Council (AMC) regulates two exams for overseas Doctors, AMC Part 1 (MCQs) and AMC Part 2 (Clinical exam), for international medical graduates to get registered and practice in Australia. This is the doctor's simple pathway to get a PR visa in Australia. Below, we have mentioned the step-by-step process of the Skill Nominated (Subclass 190) PR visa application for Doctors: 

Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Medicine (MBBS/MD/MS) from a recognised college/University from the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDoMS).

APHRA Registration: Register with the Medical Board of Australia through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). These are the four pathways for doctors:

  • Standard Pathway (In this, you have to clear AMC exams, and what we’re going to talk about in this blog) 
  • Competent Authority Pathway 
  • Specialist Pathway 
  • Short-Term Training in a Medical Specialty Pathway. 

Eligibility Check: This is a similar step as above, the document verification process by AMC, and it has two steps:

  1. Create an AMC portfolio on the Australian Medical Council's official website and upload the required documents. 
  2. Electronic Portfolio of International Candidates (EPIC) Verification: Upload your credentials on the official website. 

Licensure Examination: The AMC exam is a test to assess doctors’ knowledge to meet the Australian Healthcare System. Clear AMC Part 1 & AMC Part 2. 

English Proficiency: English proficiency is a must, with a minimum score of PTE 66/OET B/IELTS 7. 

1 Year RMO work experience: After your medical registration, one year of Resident Medical Officer job is required as your SkillSelect for your clinical skills and familiarity with the Australian healthcare system.

Registration: Apply for medical registration with the Medical Board of Australia (MBA).

Skill Assessment Letter: After clearing both AMC exams, English exam, and successful registration with the MBA, you will receive the skills assessment letter. 

EOI: Once you have completed all three exams, you can now fill out the EOI form. Once done, it will be assessed by the state or territory. 

Visa: Occupations listed on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) are in high demand in Australia. Doctors can apply for Australia-sponsored Permanent Residency (subclass 190) with an invitation or sponsorship from the state government.

For doctors on the STSOL, the following visa subclasses may be applicable:

  • Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
  • Training visa (subclass 407)
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) - State or Territory nominated
  • Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) - Short-term stream
  • Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 494)

(Optional) WBA: You need to register with the Medical Board of Australia and start working under a WBA provider who’ll offer you an internship and a work visa with sponsorship. It is a continued assessment for over 6 months to 1.5 years duration.

Also Read: Top 5 Visas for Doctors After AMC Exam in Australia

Eligibility Requirements for Subclass 190 visa

To qualify for a skilled nominated visa (Subclass 190), you will need to cover all the following criteria. It is a checklist designed to ensure that you are fully prepared to settle and succeed in Australia: 

  • Age: You must be under 45 when you receive your invitation to apply.
  • AHPRA Registration: Ensure that you clear the licensure exam (OPRA/AMC) and get your official registration certificate.
  • Eligibility Check: You need a positive assessment (document verification) from the relevant authority in your nominated occupation list. It will take around 3 months to complete this process.
  • Point Test: Get at least 65 points (on factors such as age, skill, English, work experience, partner's status, nominations). 
  • Nominations of the State or territory: You must be nominated by the Australian state or territory, and fulfill any additional criteria they need. 
  • Health and Character verification: You need to obtain health verification and character verification from the Australian health & police departments. 

What are the Benefits of a Subclass 190 visa?

  • Access to state-specific benefits or programs offered to nominated skilled migrants, especially in regions actively seeking healthcare professionals.
  • Permanent residency from day one - you can live, work, and study in Australia.
  • Access to Medicare Australia’s public healthcare system helps cover your full medical costs.
  • Free or low-cost education for your children at public schools up to high school.
  • Ability to sponsor eligible family members or relatives for Australian visas.
  • Australian Citizenship - you meet the residence and other eligibility requirements.
  • Social security - benefits and access to some government services are available to permanent residents.
  • Strong job prospects in the state or territory that nominates you, often with additional local support or recommendation.

Read more: Why English Proficiency Is Important for Pharmacists?

 

What is the difference between a 189 and 190 visa?

FeatureSubclass 189 (Skilled Independent)Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated)
Nomination requiredNo nomination required.Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.
Residency obligationCan live and work anywhere in Australia.Must live and work in the nominated state/territory initially.
Points requirementMinimum 65 points.Minimum 65 points + state nomination adds 5 points.
Invitation to applyBased solely on points score in SkillSelect.Invitation based on points score and state nomination.
Occupation listMust be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).Can be on the MLTSSL or state-specific occupation lists.
Path to citizenshipEligible after meeting residency and other criteria.Eligible after meeting residency and other criteria.
FlexibilityMore flexible—no geographic restrictions.Some commitment to stay in the nominating state/territory initially.

Note: Both visas offer permanent residency and access to Medicare and other PR benefits.

Read more: How to Become a Clinical Pharmacist in Australia?

Step-By-Step Application Process of Skilled Visa 190

  • Every state or territory has its skilled occupation list and nomination rules (Work experience, English proficiency, etc). You can check the list on the official website.
  • Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. If your points score is competitive, the states/territories may nominate you.
  • If nominated, you will get 60 days to apply for an Australian skilled visa (subclass 190).
  • You can apply inside or outside Australia, but if you are onshore (e.g., Bridging A or B Visa), then some visa conditions may apply.
  • You need at least 65 points, which are earned through age, English proficiency, work experience, qualification, partner skills, and other factors.
  • Cost starts from the main applicant fee AUD 4,640, with additional fees.
  • You can include eligible family members in your application. They will have the same rights as you.
  • You must follow Australian laws, visa conditions, and any obligations to the nominating state/territory.
  • The visa allows unlimited travel to and from Australia for five years after the grant.

Read more: How to Get A Pharmacy Job in Australia?

Australia Permanent Residence System 

If you are aiming for a permanent residence in Australia, then understand how the number system works. This system helps the government choose skilled migrants who can contribute to the future of the country. Each point test visa-like 189, 190, or 491 checks all the factors. These points add you to give you a clear picture of where you stand.

In November 2019, the points test changed to make it even and give more chances to more people. Here’s what’s important:

  • Specialised Education: If you have a Master’s by research or a PhD from an Australian university, that’s worth 10 points now — double what it used to be.
  • Partner points:

    • If your partner is under 45, has good English, a positive skills assessment, and their job’s on the skilled list, you get 10 points.
    • If your partner has good English but no skills assessment, you still get 5 points.
    • If you are single or your partner is already an Australian citizen or PR holder, you will also get 10 points.
    • State enrollment or family sponsorship: For 190 and 491 visas, it now gives you 15 points (above 10). 

Read more: How to Become A Retail Pharmacist in Australia as an Overseas Pharmacist

Important Consideration

State/territory Criteria - Each Australian state and territory determines its own enrollment rules, such as which occupations are eligible, required work experience, Language proficiency, and local residence requirements.

“Moral Obligation” to Stay - It is not a visa condition, but it’s expected that you live and work in the nominated state or territory for about two years. This is an informal agreement—it won’t affect your visa if you move, but you should continue to complete any state-required surveys during this period

Relocating Between States - Legally, you’re free to move anywhere in Australia after receiving your visa. However, it is the best practice to inform both the nominee state and the Department of Home Affairs and provide your reasons to transfer goodwill and transparency. 

Processing time varies - It is expected that the state enrollment process will take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks, while the subsequent federal visa decision may take months based on the charge and personal circumstances.

Other factors that help in PR 

Australian Study Credits
Completing at least two years of study in Australia earns you 5 extra points

Regional Study Bonus
If your Australian study is in a designated regional area, you gain an additional 5 points

Professional Year Program
Completing a Professional Year in engineering, accounting, or IT within Australia can earn 5 points, while also enhancing your job prospects locally

Community Language Skills (CCL)
If you're fluent in a recognised community language and pass the NAATI CCL test, you secure an extra 5 points

Specialist STEM Qualifications
Graduates holding a Master’s by research or PhD—especially in STEM fields—can claim 10 points (up from 5 in Nov 2019)

Partner Skills & their English Proficiency
You earn 10 points if your spouse has both competent English and a positive skills assessment; 5 points if they have competent English alone.

Important Additional Considerations for Subclass 190 Visa

  • State Nomination Quota Updates (2025)
    By mid-2025, many states (including NSW, VIC, and QLD) will have stopped their general enrollment intake or will be limited to priority pathways (eg, Gold Pass, Critical Skills). There are still some enrollment places available in Tasmania and Western Australia, focusing on important occupations.
  • Processing Times
    The state-nominated phase can be taken anywhere from 1 to 6 months based on the state, business demand, and completion of your application. Home Affairs Visa Processing Stage usually takes 6 to 12 months, most applications are processed within 8-9 months if the documents are correct and complete.
  • Invitation Rounds (Latest Status)
    There is no determined schedule for the 190 visa invitation round. The States issue invites on a rolling basis, which is affected by demand, quota, and business priorities. For example, NSW and VIC have not held a normal phase due to the complete allocation recently.
  • Obligations After Visa Grant
    Although not legally required, you expect to live and work in the nominated state or territory for about two years as a moral commitment. If you plan to move, it is a good practice to inform both the enrolled state and the home affairs to ensure transparency.

New Changes & Policy Updates for Subclass 190 Visa

  • Overhauled Points System (effective July 2025)
    A revamped structure now rewards 5+ years of work experience with 20 points (up from 15), and gives extra recognition to Australian qualifications (+5 points). There's also a new skills priority category that grants additional points for occupations deemed critical, like healthcare, technology, and renewable energy.
  • Consolidated Occupation List
    Australia MLTSSL/STSOL is going into a single, dynamic occupation shortage list (OSL). This integrated list is updated regularly to show the shortage of real-time skills.
  • Income Limit  Increase
    The minimum salary requirements for skilled visas (190, 482, 186, etc.) increased to reflect the wage hike. From July 1, 2024, the temporary skilled migration income threshold (TSMIT) increased by almost AUD 73,150. Although the subclass is not specific to 190, it reflects a comprehensive policy trend
  • Stricter Skilled Migration Focus
    The Albanese government has confirmed a decisive change towards efficient and permanent stay, which plans to further tighten international student visa rules, increase the salary limit and maintain more control over immigration levels.
  • State-Level Updates on Nomination Quotas
    As of early 2025:
    • NSW, VIC, and QLD have filled or closed their 190 nomination quotas and are now focusing on Priority Streams (E.G., STEM, Healthcare).
  • Tasmania and Western Australia Still Have Spots Left But Are Prioritizing Specific Skilled Occupations

What This Means for You

  • Check current occupation eligibility — the new OSL may open doors for jobs previously excluded.
  • Those with strong experience and Aussie qualifications stand to benefit greatly from the extra points.
  • Nomination timing is critical—some states have already closed general intake for 190; you may need to target priority pathways or other states.
  • PR pathway remains strong, but expect higher wage expectations and stricter selection criteria moving forward.

If Australia is your dream destination, make sure you are doing everything correctly or if you need any help, you can get guidance from our experts.

FAQs

Q- What is 190 visa for Australia?

Ans- The subclass 190 visa is a skilled, enrolled visa that provides permanent residence to skilled workers nominated by the Australian state or territory. This allows you to live and work permanently in Australia.

Q- How long can I live in Australia with a 190 visa?

Ans- The 190 visa grants indefinite status in Australia as a permanent resident. However, the visa-related travel facility is valid for five years from the date of grant.

Q- Which visa is faster 189 or 190?

Ans- Processing time can be different, but the 190 visa is often processed fast, as enrollment by a state or territory can speed up your application. The actual speed depends on your circumstances and the demand of the state.

Q- Do you need a job offer for a visa in Australia?

Ans- No, you usually do not require a job offer for skilled visas like 190. Instead, you require a positive skill evaluation, meet the minimum points requirements, and receive state or territorial enrollment.

Q- What is the IELTS score for 190 skilled visas?

Ans- You need at least a competent English level, which means IELTS 7 in each band. A high score can help you get more points in your visa application.

Q- Is it easy to get a visa 190?

Ans- Getting a visa 190 is not easy. You must meet the requirements, including skill evaluation, English proficiency, a point test, and state enrollment. Competition is high for many occupations in many states & territories.

Q- What are the minimum points for 190 visa?

Ans- The minimum points that are eligible for a 190 visa are 65 points. However, in practice, successful applicants often score high based on the state demand and profile list.

Q- What is the age limit for PR in Australia?

Ans- To apply for skilled PR visas like 190, you should usually be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation. There are very few exceptions (like occupation & work experience).

Q- What is the validity of the 190 visa?

Ans- The 190 visa provides permanent residence. The visa does not end, but its travel facility lasts for five years, after which you have to apply for a resident return visa to re-enter Australia.

Q- What to do after being given a 190 visa?

Ans- Once your 190 visa is provided, you should go to the nominee state or territory, register for Medicare, update your records, and start living and working in your designated occupation.

Q- How much does it cost to get PR in Australia?

Ans- The main applicant fee for efficient PR visas begins with AUD 4,640, with additional fees for skill assessment, English exam, medical examination, and family member application fees.

Q- What is a skill in demand visa in Australia?

Ans- Demand visas include Australia's skills like 190, 189, and 491. These occupations are experiencing a shortage in healthcare, IT, engineering, and trades.

Q- What are the benefits of subclass 190?

Ans- Subclass 190 -visa holders get benefits like full PR rights, access to Medicare, the ability to sponsor family, apply for citizenship, and the benefit of free or subsidized education and healthcare.

Q- What is the 10-year rule in Australia?

Ans- The 10-year rule refers to eligibility for citizenship or permanent residence if a person arrives as a child and stays in Australia continuously for 10 years. This does not apply to 190 visa holders.

Q- Which course is best for PR in Australia?

Ans- Courses that lead to occupations in the shortage of skills, such as nursing, IT, engineering, and teaching, are considered a good option to increase your chances of obtaining PR in Australia.

Q- Can I get an Australian visa without a job offer?

Ans- Yes, many Australian visas, like 190 and 189, do not require job offers. Instead, you need a positive skill evaluation, meet the points requirements, and (for 190) state enrollment.

Milan Verma
Milan Verma
about the author

Milan is a professional writer with over 5+ years of experience specializing in creating SEO data-driven content for international clients in the tech, healthcare, and interior design industries. Her expertise has been largely in copywriting & blog writing with good eye for design. She has joined Academically to align with the mission of helping qualified healthcare professionals across the globe achieve their passions and dreams.

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