Dreaming of a new life in Australia with permanent residency? The Subclass 190 Visa (Skilled Nominated Visa) is one of the most popular pathways for skilled professionals. It offers long-term security, career opportunities, and the chance to settle in different states and territories across Australia.
This guide explains the Subclass 190 visa requirements, eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and common questions — plus how expert migration consultants can make your journey smoother.
What Is the Subclass 190 Visa?
The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa is a permanent residency visa for qualified workers who receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory.
Unlike the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa), which doesn’t require state nomination, the 190 visa gives you an edge by awarding extra points in the points test. This nomination significantly boosts your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.
Each state and territory manages its own skilled occupation list and nomination process. For example, New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and other states may invite applicants depending on their skills and local demand.
Subclass 190 Visa Requirements
To apply for the Subclass 190 Visa, you must meet these general requirements:
- Occupation in Demand – Your nominated job must appear on the relevant state’s skilled occupation list.
- Skills Assessment – You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority.
- Points Test – A minimum of 65 points is required, based on age, English, qualifications, and work experience.
- State Nomination – Apply for and receive nomination from a state or territory government.
- Expression of Interest (EOI) – Lodge your EOI in Skill Select and wait for an invitation.
- Age – Must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.
- English Language Requirement – Meet the required level of English proficiency.
- Health & Character Checks – Pass medical exams and provide police clearance.
👉 Some states may set extra nomination criteria depending on their labour market needs.
Benefits of the Subclass 190 Visa
The 190 Visa provides a clear pathway to permanent residency and comes with major advantages:
- Live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
- Earn extra points from state nomination, improving your selection chances.
- Full work rights for you and family members.
- Access to Medicare and other government services.
- Pathway to Australian citizenship.
- Ability to sponsor eligible relatives.
- Flexibility to settle in states that value your occupation.
Step-by-Step: 190 Visa Application Process
- Check Occupation & Points – Confirm your occupation is on a skilled list and calculate your score.
- Skills Assessment – Obtain a positive assessment through the relevant authority.
- English Language Test – Take an accepted test if required.
- Submit EOI – Lodge an Expression of Interest via SkillSelect.
- Apply for State Nomination – Submit a separate application with your chosen state or territory.
- Invitation to Apply – Receive an official invitation from the government.
- Visa Application – Submit your Subclass 190 visa application online. Processing Period – Wait for outcome (varies by case). Visa Grant – Receive permanent residency and begin your new life in Australia.
190 Visa vs 189 vs 485 – Key Differences
| Feature | Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) | Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) | Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) |
| State Nomination | Yes | No | No |
| Points Test | Yes | Yes | No |
| Occupation List | State & Federal | Federal Only | Graduate list |
| Permanent Residency | Yes | Yes | No |
| Work Rights | Full | Full | Full (temporary) |
| Best For | Skilled professionals nominated by a state | Highly competitive skilled workers | International graduates |
Why Choose State Nomination?
- Higher chances of selection – Nomination gives you extra points.
- Occupation-based demand – States nominate workers for skills they need.
- Settlement support – Nomination reflects where your skills are valued most.
- Career opportunities – Different states have demand across healthcare, IT, engineering, trades, education, and more.
For example, NSW often nominates IT and finance professionals, while regional states may prioritise healthcare, trades, or engineering.
Why Work With FTS Education & Visa Services
We specialise in helping skilled migrants navigate the complex Subclass 190 Visa process.
- Stay updated on state nomination changes.
- Maximise your points test score.
- Avoid delays, refusals, or errors with expert review.
- Support for complex and appeal cases.
Real Stories: FTS Education & Visa Services Makes the Difference
Hundreds of clients have trusted FTS Education & Visa Services to guide their pathway to an Australian future.
Here’s what real clients say:
Begin Your 190 Visa
Journey Today The Subclass 190 Visa is your gateway to a new life in Australia. With strong demand for skilled professionals, state nominations provide one of the most reliable routes to permanent residency. At FTS Education & Visa Services, we provide clear guidance, professional support, and a proven track record of success.
📞 Contact our team today and take the first confident step toward your Skilled Nominated 190 Visa and Australian permanent residency.
FAQ
Yes, you can apply whether you’re offshore or onshore.
Processing times vary but typically range between 6 to 12 months.
While not legally binding, you are expected to live and work in your nominating state for at least two years.
The main application fee is about AUD 4,770. Additional fees apply for dependents, medicals, skills assessments, and English tests.
Typical documents include passport, skills assessment, English test results, police clearance, health reports, and employment/education evidence.
Some states require onshore applicants to already reside there, while offshore applicants must show genuine intention to relocate.
No. You must nominate an occupation from the relevant state’s list.
Yes. The visa grants permanent residency with a 5-year travel authority. After that, you’ll need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to keep travelling in and out of Australia.
