Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa.

The subclass 190 is a permanent skilled visa that requires nomination from an Australian state or territory government. It awards 5 bonus points, making it more accessible than the 189 for applicants who fall just short of the highest scores. In return, you commit to living in the nominating state for at least two years.

At a glance

Visa type
Permanent
Sponsorship
State/territory nomination
Points bonus
+5 points from nomination
Location
Nominating state (2 years)
Application cost
$4,640 (main) + state fee
Processing time
6-11 months

How state nomination works.

Each Australian state and territory runs its own skilled migration program. To receive nomination, you typically need to:

  • Have an eligible occupation: Your occupation must appear on the state's specific occupation list, which may be a subset of the national list.
  • Meet state-specific criteria: States may require minimum years of experience, specific English scores, or evidence that you can find work in the state.
  • Demonstrate genuine commitment: You need to show a genuine intention to live and work in the nominating state for at least two years.
  • Apply through the state: Each state has its own application portal and process. Fees range from $0 to $500 depending on the state.

State occupation lists change frequently. Check each state's migration website for current requirements.

Eligibility requirements.

The 190 shares most eligibility criteria with the 189, plus the nomination requirement:

  • State nomination: You must receive and accept nomination from a state or territory government.
  • Occupation: Your occupation must be on the MLTSSL or STSOL and on the nominating state's list.
  • Skills assessment: Positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
  • Age: Under 45 at the time of invitation.
  • English: At least competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent). Some states require higher.
  • Points: At least 65 points including the 5-point nomination bonus. Competitive scores are typically 80-90.
  • Health and character: Standard health and character requirements apply.

Application process.

  1. 1

    Get your skills assessed

    Same as the 189 - obtain a positive skills assessment from your designated assessing authority.

  2. 2

    Submit an EOI in SkillSelect

    Lodge your Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and select the 190 visa. Indicate which states you are interested in.

  3. 3

    Apply for state nomination

    Apply directly through your preferred state's migration portal. Some states invite candidates from SkillSelect, others accept direct applications. Processing takes 4-12 weeks.

  4. 4

    Receive nomination and invitation

    Once a state nominates you, the 5 bonus points are added to your EOI and the Department of Home Affairs issues an invitation to apply.

  5. 5

    Lodge your visa application

    You have 60 days to lodge through ImmiAccount with all supporting documents, health checks, and police clearances.

  6. 6

    Wait for a decision

    Processing typically takes 6-11 months. The visa grants permanent residency on approval.

How this compares.

Subclass 189

No sponsorship needed but requires 90+ points. Live anywhere in Australia.

Subclass 491

+15 points but regional only. Provisional visa - PR via 191 after 3 years.

See the full 189 vs 190 vs 491 comparison.

Frequently asked questions.

How do I get state nomination for a 190 visa?
Each state and territory has its own nomination program with different criteria. Generally, you need to have an occupation on that state's occupation list, meet minimum points and English requirements, and demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in the state. You apply directly through the state's migration website.
Which state is easiest to get 190 nomination from?
This depends on your occupation, experience, and circumstances. States like South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory tend to have broader occupation lists and lower thresholds. NSW and Victoria are more competitive but have larger occupation lists. Research each state's current requirements and occupation lists.
Do I have to live in the nominating state?
Yes. The 190 visa carries a condition requiring you to live in the nominating state or territory for at least two years after the visa is granted. While this is not enforced with the same strictness as the 491 regional requirement, it is a genuine obligation and states may track compliance.
How many extra points does state nomination give?
State nomination for the 190 visa awards 5 bonus points. These are added to your base points score automatically when you receive nomination. This means if you have 85 base points, nomination brings you to 90.
Can I change states after getting a 190 visa?
You are expected to live in the nominating state for at least two years. After that period, you are free to move anywhere in Australia. Moving before the two years may affect future visa applications or citizenship, though the 190 itself is a permanent visa and cannot be cancelled for this reason alone.
How long does state nomination take?
Processing times vary by state. Most states process nominations within 4 to 12 weeks, but this can vary significantly depending on demand and the time of year. Some states have specific intake periods rather than accepting applications year-round.

Check your 190 eligibility.

Find out which states might nominate you based on your occupation and experience.

Get your free assessment

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