Key facts
- Subclass
- 190
- Points required
- 65
- English requirement
- IELTS 6.0+ each band
- Occupation lists
- MLTSSL, STSOL
Visa costs
| child fee | AUD $1,195 |
| partner fee | AUD $2,385 |
| application fee | AUD $4,765 |
Subclass 190: Common questions
Do I have to stay in the nominating state forever?
No. The 190 visa has a 2-year obligation to live and work in the nominating state, but after that you are free to move anywhere in Australia.
Is the nomination a guarantee of a visa?
No. Nomination means you receive an ITA and the 5 bonus points — the Department still assesses your visa application independently.
How long does state nomination take?
Processing varies widely — from 4 weeks to 6+ months depending on the state and volume of applications.
How does Subclass 190 compare?
The three points-tested skilled visas trade off speed, flexibility, and location requirements. Here is how they line up against each other.
| Visa | Permanence | Points bonus | Sponsorship | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 189Skilled Independent | Permanent from day one | No sponsor or state nomination required | High scorers (typically 80+ points) | |
| Subclass 190Skilled NominatedCurrent page | Permanent from day one | +5 | Requires state/territory nomination | Applicants close to the cut-off, flexible on location |
| Subclass 491Skilled Work Regional | Temporary (5 years), 191 path to PR after 3 years | +15 | Requires state/regional sponsor or eligible relative | Anyone open to regional Australia (biggest boost) |
Overview
The Skilled Nominated visa is a points-tested permanent visa that requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. Nomination adds 5 points to your score and can make the difference in a competitive invitation round.
Who is this visa for?
- Skilled workers whose points score is close but not high enough for a 189 invitation
- Applicants willing to live and work in a particular state or territory
- Workers whose occupation is on a state nomination list
- Professionals seeking permanent residency without needing an employer sponsor
Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Submit an EOI in SkillSelect and apply for state/territory nomination separately
- Receive a nomination from one of the eight states or territories
- Occupation must appear on the nominating state's occupation list
- Hold a positive skills assessment
- Score at least 65 points (effectively 60 before the +5 nomination bonus)
- Meet health and character requirements
- English: IELTS 6.0+ in each band
Application process
Application Process
- Research which state or territory nominates your occupation
- Complete a skills assessment
- Lodge an EOI in SkillSelect and tick the 190 pathway
- Apply for state/territory nomination via the relevant portal
- If nominated, receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Lodge the visa application within 60 days
- Undergo health examinations, police checks, and await the decision
Quick eligibility check
Answer 3 questions to see if the Subclass 190 might suit you.
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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.