Overview
The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is a permanent visa designed for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. It allows successful applicants to live and work in Australia indefinitely. This visa is ideal for individuals with qualifications and experience in occupations that are in demand across various regions of Australia.
Unlike independent skilled visas, the 190 visa requires nomination from a state or territory, which means applicants must meet both federal and state-specific criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the 190 visa, you must meet the following general requirements:
- Age: Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
- English Language: Demonstrate at least Competent English (e.g. IELTS score of 6 in each band or equivalent).
- Skills Assessment: Hold a valid skills assessment for an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Points Test: Score at least 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs points test.
- Nomination: Receive nomination from a participating state or territory government.
State-Specific Requirements
Each state and territory has its own nomination criteria. Examples include:
- New South Wales (NSW): Must have resided in NSW or offshore for at least six months and hold a valid skills assessment in an eligible occupation.
- Victoria (VIC): Must have lived and worked in Victoria for the past six months in a highly skilled occupation supporting the state’s economic recovery.
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Must meet ACT Matrix scoring requirements and demonstrate residency and employment in Canberra.
- South Australia (SA): Must have lived and worked in SA for six months and meet graduate or skilled worker stream criteria.
Application Process
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the 190 visa:
- Check Eligibility
- Confirm you meet both federal and state/territory nomination requirements.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Lodge your EOI through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system.
- Apply for State/Territory Nomination
- Use your EOI ID to apply for nomination via the relevant state portal (e.g. Live in Melbourne for VIC).
- Receive Invitation
- If nominated, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
- Lodge Visa Application
- Submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
- Await Decision
- Monitor your application status and respond to any requests for further information.
Cost and Processing Time
From AUD 4910（Update date：2025.07）
- 50% of applications: 16 Months
- 90% of applications: 21 Months
（Update date：2025.07）
Note: These figures are subject to change. Always confirm current fees and timelines before applying.
Conditions and Obligations
Once granted, the 190 visa allows you to:
- Live and work in Australia permanently.
- Enrol in Medicare (Australia’s public health system).
- Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
- Apply for Australian citizenship (subject to eligibility).
Obligations include:
- Reside in the nominating state or territory for at least two years.
- Notify the state/territory of any changes in contact details or circumstances.
- Comply with Australian laws and visa conditions.
Common Questions
Do I need a job offer to apply?
Not necessarily. While some states prefer applicants with employment, others focus on qualifications and experience.
Can I include family members?
Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children in your application.
What if I don’t meet the points requirement?
You may consider improving your English score, gaining more work experience, or exploring other visa pathways.
Is this visa available to offshore applicants?
Yes, many states accept offshore applicants who meet their criteria.
Helpful Tips
- Prepare Early: Ensure your skills assessment and English test results are valid and ready before submitting your EOI.
- Tailor Your Application: Align your profile with the needs of the state or territory you’re targeting.
- Avoid Common Mistakes:
- Submitting incomplete documentation.
- Applying without checking state-specific requirements.
- Missing deadlines for nomination or visa lodgement.
- Stay Informed: Visa policies and occupation lists change frequently. Check https://ausimmi.com.au for updates and guidance.
Ready to Apply?
If you're considering the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190), our team at Aussie Immigration Services is here to help. We offer personalised advice, document preparation, and support throughout the application process.
Contact us today to begin your journey towards permanent residency in Australia.
