190 Visa
190 Visa Australia: Skilled Nominated Visa Explained
Are you a skilled professional looking to move to Australia permanently? The 190 visa, officially known as the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), is a popular pathway for qualified workers who have skills needed in specific Australian states or territories.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 190 visa, including eligibility, application steps, points requirements, and benefits.
What Is the 190 Visa?
The 190 visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia with nomination from a state or territory government. Unlike the 189 visa, which is fully independent, the 190 visa requires a commitment to live and work in the nominating state or territory for at least two years.
Key Features of the 190 Visa:
Offers permanent residency
Requires state or territory nomination
Applicants must meet skills and points test requirements
Allows you to include eligible family members
Pathway to Australian citizenship
190 Visa Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 190 Skilled Nominated Visa, you must:
Be under 45 years old at the time of invitation
Have an occupation listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
Obtain a positive skills assessment for your occupation
Score at least 65 points on the points test
Have competent English (e.g., IELTS 6 or equivalent)
Be nominated by an Australian state or territory
Receive an invitation to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)
190 Visa Points Test Explained
The Department of Home Affairs uses a points-based system to rank visa applicants. You must score a minimum of 65 points, but higher scores increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
Points are awarded for:
Age
English language proficiency
Skilled employment experience
Educational qualifications
Australian study requirements
Partner qualifications
State nomination (adds 5 points automatically)
How to Apply for a 190 Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:
Check Your Occupation
Ensure your occupation is on the State/Territory Occupation List for the area you wish to live in.
Get a Skills Assessment
Apply through the relevant assessing authority to confirm your qualifications and experience match the Australian standard.
Sit an English Language Test
Submit valid results from IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or other accepted tests.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create a profile in SkillSelect and express your interest in the 190 visa, selecting your desired nominating state/territory.
Apply for State Nomination
Each state/territory has its own nomination requirements and application process. Visit their official website to apply.
Wait for Invitation
If nominated, you will receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs.
Lodge Your Visa Application
Submit your full visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
Health & Character Checks
You’ll be required to undergo medical exams and provide police clearance certificates.
Processing Time for the 190 Visa
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the application and the nominating state. As of 2025:
75% of applications: processed within 6 months
90% of applications: processed within 9 months
Complete and accurate applications help speed up the process.
190 Visa Cost
Main applicant: From AUD $4,640
Secondary applicants (spouse/partner or children): Additional fees apply
Additional costs may include skills assessments, English tests, police checks, and health exams
Benefits of the 190 Skilled Nominated Visa
Permanent residency from the date of visa grant
Work and study rights across Australia
Access to Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
Sponsor eligible family members for PR
Apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements
Extra 5 points toward the points test from state nomination
Frequently Nominated Occupations
While each state or territory has its own demand list, common 190 visa occupations include:
Registered Nurses
Civil Engineers
ICT Professionals
Electricians
Accountants
Early Childhood Teachers
Social Workers
Final Thoughts
The 190 visa is an excellent option for skilled professionals who are willing to contribute to the workforce in specific Australian states or territories. With the added benefit of state nomination points and permanent residency, it remains one of the most attractive migration pathways to Australia.
Looking for help with your 190 visa application?
A registered migration agent can assist with eligibility checks, state nomination processes, and documentation to ensure your best chance at success.
