Yes — an applicant on a Subclass 417 Working Holiday visa can apply for Subclass 189, 190, and 491 skilled migration visas, provided they meet the specific eligibility criteria.
These visas are points-tested and differ significantly from employer-sponsored visas. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each:
🏆 Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa (Permanent)
Can they apply? ✔️ Yes
Key Requirements:
- Nominated Occupation: Must be on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Skills Assessment: A positive assessment from the relevant authority is required.
- Points Test: Must score at least 65 points based on:
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Age
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English language ability
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Skilled employment (Australia and overseas)
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Educational qualifications
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Australian study
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Credentialled community language skills
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- Age: Generally under 45 years at the time of invitation.
- English Language: At least competent English (e.g., IELTS 6.0 in each band).
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Must submit an EOI through SkillSelect.
- Health and Character: Must meet standard requirements.
🔍 Important Consideration:
This is a truly independent visa — no state nomination or employer sponsorship required. However, competition is high, and required point scores are often above 65, especially in high-demand occupations.
🏙️ Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa (Permanent)
Can they apply? ✔️ Yes
Key Requirements:
- State/Territory Nomination: Required — the main difference from the 189 visa.
- Nominated Occupation: Must be on the state/territory’s occupation list (may be broader than the MLTSSL).
- Skills Assessment: Positive assessment required.
- Points Test: Minimum 65 points, including 5 points for state nomination.
- Age: Under 45 years at invitation time.
- English Language: At least competent English.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Must indicate the desired state/territory.
- State-Specific Requirements: Vary and may include:
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Residency in the state
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Local work experience
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A job offer in the state
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- Health and Character: Must meet requirements.
🧭 Important Consideration:
This visa adds 5 points for nomination but requires you to meet both federal and state-specific criteria. Most states expect visa holders to live and work locally for at least 2 years.
🌄 Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
Can they apply? ✔️ Yes
Key Requirements:
- Nomination or Sponsorship: By a state/territory or an eligible family member in a regional area.
- Nominated Occupation: Must be on a regional skilled occupation list.
- Skills Assessment: Positive result is mandatory.
- Points Test: Minimum 65 points, with 15 points for nomination or sponsorship.
- Age: Under 45 years at the time of invitation.
- English Language: Must demonstrate competent English.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Required.
- Commitment to Regional Australia: Must live, work, and study in a designated regional area.
- Health and Character: Standard checks apply.
🚀 Pathway to PR:
The 491 visa is provisional, but provides a pathway to Subclass 191 Permanent Residence after:
- 3 years of regional residence
- Meeting income requirements
📌 Important Consideration:
This visa is tailored to attract skilled migrants to regional Australia — offering higher points and more occupations. However, the regional commitment is a critical factor.
📚 General Tips for Subclass 417 Visa Holders Applying for Skilled Visas
- ✅ Maintain Lawful Status: Always remain lawfully in Australia. If you apply onshore, you’ll typically receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA) to stay during processing.
- ⏳ Timeframe: Processing times vary — it can take months to over a year, depending on your occupation and situation.
- 💰 Cost: Application fees, skills assessments, English tests, and health checks can add up. Budget accordingly.
💡 Final Thoughts
While being on a Subclass 417 Working Holiday visa does not guarantee eligibility, it also doesn’t restrict you from applying for a skilled visa. As long as you meet the skills, points, age, and language criteria — you can pursue permanent residency pathways in Australia.
Want help checking your eligibility or improving your points score? Let us know — we’re here to help! 🇦🇺
