The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is one of the most reliable pathways to secure permanent residency (PR) in Australia. This visa is designed for skilled professionals whose occupations are in demand in specific Australian states or territories.
Unlike the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), the Subclass 190 visa requires state or territory nomination, which increases your chances of receiving an invitation.
What Is Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190?
The Subclass 190 visa is a points-tested permanent visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently with the support of a state government.
Once granted, you can:
- Live and work anywhere in Australia
- Access Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare)
- Sponsor eligible family members
- Travel freely
- Apply for Australian citizenship
Although you are expected to stay in the nominating state initially, you are not permanently restricted.
What Does State Sponsorship Mean?
State sponsorship means that an Australian state or territory nominates you based on their labor market needs.
Each state publishes its own:
- Skilled occupation list
- Eligibility requirements
- Priority sectors
- Nomination quotas
When a state nominates you, you receive 5 additional points, improving your ranking in the SkillSelect system.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Skilled Nominated Visa 190, you must:
- Have an occupation on the relevant skilled list
- Obtain a positive skills assessment
- Score at least 65 points (including state nomination points)
- Be under 45 years of age
- Meet English language requirements
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Higher points significantly improve your chances of selection.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Check Occupation List
Confirm that your occupation is listed on both:
- The general skilled occupation list
- The specific state occupation list
2. Get Skills Assessment
You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority to prove your qualifications and experience.
3. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create and submit your EOI through SkillSelect, indicating your interest in Subclass 190 and preferred states.
4. Apply for State Nomination
Each state has its own application process. You may need to:
- Apply directly through the state portal
- Meet additional criteria such as work experience or job offers
5. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Once nominated, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
6. Lodge Visa Application
Submit your visa application within 60 days, along with all required documents.
State-Specific Requirements
Different states have different priorities:
- New South Wales (NSW): Focuses on highly skilled professionals
- Victoria (VIC): Requires strong experience in targeted sectors
- South Australia (SA): Offers pathways for offshore applicants
- Western Australia (WA): Prioritizes industry-specific roles
- Tasmania (TAS): May require local employment or study
Choosing the right state strategy is crucial for success.
Benefits of Skilled Nominated Visa 190
Permanent Residency
You receive PR status immediately, allowing long-term settlement in Australia.
Additional Points Advantage
State nomination provides 5 extra points, improving your selection chances.
Higher Invitation Probability
Compared to Subclass 189, this visa often has lower cut-off scores.
Access to State Opportunities
You can benefit from job opportunities and development programs offered by your nominating state.
Documents Required
Applicants typically need:
- Passport
- Skills assessment report
- English language test results
- Educational certificates
- Work experience documents
- State nomination approval
- Medical and police clearance certificates
Accurate documentation is critical to avoid delays or refusal.
Processing Time
Processing timelines may vary:
- State nomination: 1–3 months
- Visa processing: 6–9 months
Faster processing is possible with complete and accurate applications.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants face rejection due to:
- Incorrect points calculation
- Applying to the wrong state
- Incomplete documentation
- Weak employment evidence
- Not meeting state-specific criteria
A strategic and well-prepared application improves approval chances.
Who Should Apply for Subclass 190?
This visa is ideal for:
- Skilled professionals with moderate to high points
- Applicants whose occupation is in demand in specific states
- Candidates willing to live in a nominated state
- Individuals seeking direct permanent residency
It is a strong alternative for those who may not qualify for Subclass 189.