Skilled Migration
Points-tested pathways to permanent residency
Independent, state-nominated and regional skilled visas — 189, 190 and 491. Strategy, points and occupation analysis from MARA-registered agents.
Condition 8549: The Designated Areas List Has Been Remade for 2026
The Migration (Designated Areas) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/004) commenced on 22 September 2026 and repealed IMMI 16/044 — which was due to sunset on 1 October. The areas are identical. The full Schedule 1 postcode list, what condition 8549 actually requires, and why "designated area" is not "designated regional area".
Read the guide →Student Visa to Permanent Residency: The Complete 2026 Pathway Guide
Everything you need to know about converting your student visa into permanent residency — from Subclass 500 to PR via 485, 189/190 and employer sponsorship.
Read Article →189 vs 190 vs 491 — Which Skilled Visa Is Right for You?
A comprehensive comparison of Australia's three main skilled migration pathways — skilled independent, state nominated and regional provisional.
Read Article →From Visa Refusal to 190 Nomination — One Client's Story
After a 189 refusal, the right strategy led to a successful 190 state nomination. Here's what changed and what you can learn.
Read Article →People also ask about Skilled Migration
What is the difference between the 189, 190 and 491 visas?
The 189 is points-tested permanent residency with no sponsor. The 190 is permanent residency with state nomination (worth 5 points). The 491 is a regional provisional visa (worth 15 points) that leads to PR via the 191 after three years.
How many points do I need for skilled migration in 2026?
You need a minimum of 65 points to be eligible, but competitive invitation scores are typically well above that and vary by occupation. State and regional nomination can add the points that lift you into invitation range.
Can I still get PR with a low points score?
Often, yes. State nomination, regional study, partner points, additional English testing and a skills reassessment are all levers that can raise your score. The right strategy is the difference.
Ready to action your skilled migration plan?
Get an honest, no-obligation read on your pathway from a MARA-registered agent.