Overview
The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa is a points-tested permanent residence visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Nomination adds 5 points to your score. You must have an occupation on the relevant list, a suitable skills assessment, competent English, and be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest.
The Subclass 190 visa suits skilled workers whose occupation is in demand in a particular state or territory. The extra 5 points from nomination can be decisive in competitive invitation rounds — but each jurisdiction sets its own rules and they change through the year, so timing and occupation matter.
Fees and processing times above are sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and shown with the date verified.
Who is eligible
- Be nominated by an Australian state or territory government
- Submit an Expression of Interest and be invited to apply
- Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Hold a suitable skills assessment for that occupation
- Be under 45 at time of invitation
- Have at least competent English
- Meet health and character requirements
This visa is points-tested. Estimate your points with our calculator .
Costs
The base application charge is A$4,640 . An additional A$2,320 applies per applicant aged 18 or over . Fees are indexed each year — see the official Visa Pricing Estimator for the current figure.
Processing times
Around 75% of applications are finalised within 4 months, and 90% within 7 months. Source: Department of Home Affairs — Global visa processing times .
How to apply
- Check state nomination criteria. Each state and territory publishes its own occupation lists and eligibility requirements, which change during the year.
- Submit an EOI and apply for nomination. Lodge an EOI in SkillSelect and apply to your chosen state or territory.
- Receive nomination and invitation. If nominated, you are invited to apply for the visa.
- Lodge a complete application. Apply within 60 days of invitation with all evidence.
- Complete health and character checks. Undergo health examinations and provide police certificates.
How it compares
| Feature | 189 | 190 | 491 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional (5 yrs) |
| Nominator | None | State/territory | State or eligible family |
| Points bonus | 0 | +5 | +15 |
Frequently asked questions
How many points does state nomination add?
State or territory nomination for the Subclass 190 visa adds 5 points to your points test score.
Can I move states after I get a 190 visa?
The 190 is a permanent visa, but you are expected to live and work in the nominating state or territory, usually for around two years. Confirm the specific commitment with the nominating government.
Is the 190 visa permanent?
Yes. It grants permanent residence from the date of grant, with work, study and Medicare access and a pathway to citizenship.