Visa 190
Visa 190 Australia: Your Guide to the Skilled Nominated Visa
Are you a skilled professional looking to make Australia your permanent home? The Visa 190, also known as the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), is a highly sought-after immigration pathway for qualified individuals who are nominated by an Australian state or territory.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visa 190—from eligibility criteria and the points test to the application process and benefits of this permanent visa.
What Is Visa 190?
The 190 visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a state or territory government in Australia. It allows successful applicants and their eligible family members to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
Unlike the 189 visa (which is fully independent), visa 190 requires a nomination from a participating state or territory, and applicants are generally expected to live and work in that area for at least two years after visa grant.
Key Features of the Visa 190
Grants permanent residency
Requires state or territory nomination
Adds 5 points to your points test score
Allows you to bring eligible family members
Provides a pathway to Australian citizenship
Visa 190 Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for visa 190, you must meet the following conditions:
Be under 45 years of age
Have an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
Obtain a positive skills assessment
Achieve at least 65 points on the points test
Demonstrate competent English (e.g. IELTS 6 in each band)
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect
Receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory
Be invited to apply for the visa
Understanding the Points Test
The Australian Department of Home Affairs uses a points-based system to assess skilled visa applicants. You must score at least 65 points to be eligible for the visa 190.
Points are awarded for:
Age
English proficiency
Skilled work experience
Educational qualifications
Australian study
Partner skills
State nomination (+5 points automatically)
How to Apply for Visa 190
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for visa 190:
Check Your Occupation
Ensure your occupation is on the state or territory occupation list relevant to your preferred region.
Get a Skills Assessment
Apply to the appropriate assessing authority to confirm your qualifications and experience.
Take an English Test
Provide evidence of competent English through a test like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create a profile on SkillSelect, specifying your interest in the visa 190 and the states you're open to nomination from.
Apply for State Nomination
Visit the relevant state or territory’s migration website and apply for nomination. Each region has its own requirements.
Receive an Invitation to Apply
Once nominated, you’ll receive an invitation from the Australian government to apply for the visa.
Lodge Your Application
Submit your visa application within 60 days of the invitation.
Health and Character Checks
Undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
Visa 190 Processing Time
Visa 190 processing times may vary, but current estimates are:
75% of applications: processed in 6–8 months
90% of applications: processed in 10 months or less
Factors such as application completeness, occupation demand, and workload at the Department of Home Affairs can impact timelines.
Cost of Visa 190
Main applicant: From AUD $4,640
Additional fees apply for partners and children
Costs for skills assessments, English tests, medical exams, and police checks are separate
Benefits of Visa 190
Live and work permanently in Australia
Access to Medicare (public health care)
Opportunity to sponsor family members
Pathway to Australian citizenship
Education access for children
No restrictions on type of work after initial commitment period
Which States and Territories Offer Nomination?
Each state or territory has its own list of in-demand occupations and nomination criteria. Popular choices include:
New South Wales (NSW)
Victoria (VIC)
Queensland (QLD)
South Australia (SA)
Western Australia (WA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Northern Territory (NT)
Final Thoughts
The visa 190 is an excellent choice for skilled professionals who are willing to settle in a specific part of Australia. With state nomination, extra points, and a clear path to permanent residency and citizenship, it’s one of the most attractive migration options available.
Need expert help with your visa 190 application?
Our migration consultants can guide you through every step—from skills assessment to state nomination and visa lodgement.
