By the Global Nurse Guide Immigration Strategist
If you are a nurse in the UK, India, or the Philippines dreaming of an Australian life, you likely have two numbers swirling in your head: 189 and 190.
These aren’t just random codes; they are the two main “Golden Tickets” to Permanent Residency (PR). Choosing the wrong one could mean waiting months longer than necessary—or missing out entirely.
This guide breaks down the critical differences for the 2025/2026 migration year, helping you decide which strategy wins your future.
Subclass 189: The ‘Freedom’ Visa
Official Name: Skilled Independent Visa
Think of the 189 visa as the “Gold Standard” of Australian migration. It is completely independent, meaning you don’t need a state, an employer, or a family member to sponsor you.
- The Pro: Total Freedom. Once granted, you can live and work anywhere in Australia immediately. You could land in Sydney, move to the Gold Coast a week later, and settle in Melbourne the next month. There are no strings attached.
- The Con: Competition. Because it’s so desirable, it is harder to get. You rely entirely on your own points score (Age + English + Experience + Education).
- 2026 Data & Trends:
- The Door is Open: After a quiet period, the November 2025 Invitation Round was a game-changer. The Department of Home Affairs issued approximately 15,000 invitations, with a massive number allocated to Registered Nurses.
- Realistic Score: In this recent round, nurses were getting invited with scores around 75–80 points.
Subclass 190: The ‘Smart’ Visa
Official Name: Skilled Nominated Visa
Think of the 190 visa as a “Contract.” A specific Australian state (like Victoria or Western Australia) agrees to nominate you. In exchange, you agree to live in their state for your first two years.
- The Pro: The Point Bonus. This is the secret weapon. If a state nominates you, you automatically get +5 extra points.
- Example: If you have 70 points on your own, the 190 visa bumps you to 75 points—often pushing you over the line to get an invite.
- The Con: The Commitment. You are morally (and policy-wise) obligated to live and work in that specific state for 2 years after your visa is granted. You cannot just land in Melbourne and move to Sydney immediately.
Snapshot Comparison: 189 vs. 190
| Feature | Subclass 189 (Independent) | Subclass 190 (State Nominated) |
|---|---|---|
| Freedom | 🟢 Winner: Live anywhere immediately. | 🟡 Condition: Must live in the state for 2 years. |
| Points Boost | 🔴 None. relies on your raw score. | 🟢 Winner: Get +5 Points automatically. |
| Cost (2025/26) | AUD $4,910 (Main Applicant) | AUD $4,910 (Main Applicant) |
| Processing Time | Approx. 8–9 Months | Approx. 6.5–8 Months |
| Invitation Speed | Variable (Quarterly rounds) | Consistent (States invite monthly/weekly) |
The “Points” Reality Check (2026)
Don’t be fooled by the “minimum” requirement.
- Official Minimum: The government says you need 65 points to apply.
- The Hard Truth: In 2026, 65 points is rarely enough to receive an invitation quickly.
The Realistic Target for Nurses: To be “safe” and secure an invite in the next round, you should aim for 75–80 Points.
🏆 Best for Low Points: Subclass 190 If you are sitting at 70 points, applying for a 190 visa is your best strategy. That automatic +5 boost takes you to 75, putting you right in the “invited” zone.
State Hotspots: Who is Hiring in 2026?
If you choose the 190 route, you need to know which states are actually inviting nurses right now.
1. Victoria (Melbourne)
- Status: Very Active.
- System: They use a “Registration of Interest” (ROI) system.
- Verdict: Victoria is aggressively recruiting healthcare workers. If you have Superior English and decent experience, your chances here are high.
2. Western Australia (Perth)
- Status: Priority List.
- System: Nurses are listed on “WASMOL Schedule 1” (Medical List).
- Verdict: WA often prioritizes candidates who have a contract (job offer), but for nurses, they are historically generous. It’s a great option if you want higher wages and a relaxed lifestyle.
3. New South Wales (Sydney)
- Status: Highly Competitive.
- System: NSW has a “sharper target” list and often invites only the highest point scorers.
- Verdict: Great if you have 85+ points, but harder to crack than Victoria or WA if your points are average.
Final Strategy: Which One Should You Pick?
Do not choose just one. Choose BOTH.
The smartest immigration strategy for a nurse in 2026 is:
- Calculate your points.
- Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the 189 Visa (to keep your options open for total freedom).
- Lodge a separate EOI for the 190 Visa in your preferred state (e.g., Victoria or WA) to grab those extra +5 points.
This “Double-Dip” strategy ensures that if the federal government does a massive round (like Nov 2025), you are in the pool. But if they go quiet, a state government can still pick you up.
Ready to start? Check your points score today and ensure your English test results (IELTS/PTE) are current. Every single point counts.
(Disclaimer: Immigration rules change frequently. Data is accurate as of January 2026. Always consult a registered migration agent for personal advice.)
