Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)

Who this pathway suits

The Subclass 190 visa allows state and territory governments to address regional skills shortages by nominating high-calibre overseas workers. Once granted, you obtain immediate permanent residency for you and your family.Unlike Subclass 189, which requires no nomination, Subclass 190 requires an expression of interest (EOI) registered with both SkillSelect and the chosen state's migration authority (such as NSW, Victoria, Queensland, WA, SA, Tasmania, ACT, or NT).Each state maintains its own targeted skilled occupation list, minimum work experience standards, and English competency thresholds.

Eligibility at a glance

• Age under 45 years at the date of invitation
• Nominated occupation on the relevant Short-term or Medium/Long-term list approved by the nominating state
• Positive skills assessment from authorized evaluating body (e.g., ACS, Engineers Australia, VETASSESS)
• Competent English minimum (IELTS 6.0 in all bands or PTE 50)
• Score at least 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs points matrix
• Nomination approved by an Australian State or Territory government
• Meet health and character requirements

How the process works

1. Skills Assessment & English Testing — Obtain a positive assessment from your occupation's assessing authority and complete IELTS or PTE.
2. Submit SkillSelect EOI — Lodge your Expression of Interest selecting Subclass 190 and your preferred Australian state or territory.
3. State Nomination Application — Submit state nomination ROI or direct application following the specific state's invitation rules.
4. State Nomination Approval — Upon approval, the Department of Home Affairs issues an official Invitation to Apply (ITA).
5. Lodge Visa Application — Submit the complete visa application and supporting documentation within 60 days via ImmiAccount.
6. Health & Character Checks — Attend medical exams and submit national police clearances.
7. Visa Grant — Receive your permanent resident visa and plan your relocation to your nominating state.

Documents you will typically need

• Valid passport bio-data pages for all family members
• Official positive skills assessment result letter
• English language test results (less than 3 years old)
• State nomination approval notification
• Educational qualification certificates and academic transcripts
• Employment reference letters, payslips, and tax records
• Police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for 12+ months
• Health examinations completed through an authorized panel physician

Frequently asked questions