Skilled – Nominated (subclass 190)

Australian states and territories regularly nominate highly skilled people to move to Australia for work. These nominations are carried out under the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). It is an invites-only visa program. Successful applicants get to live permanently in Australia as they pursue work, study, and other endeavours.

What is the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass, 190)?

The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-tested permanent-residency visa to Australia. Those interested must first submit an Expression of Interest to the Department of Home Affairs. SkillSelect accepts EOI submissions throughout the Australian financial year. Points are issued based on your submission, and candidates with high ranking EOIs are invited to apply for the visa.

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa is a permanent residency visa type for skilled workers and their family (spouse/ defacto partner and their children) who are sponsored by a state. Unlike the subclass 189, this visa requires an applicant to submit an expression of interest with a specific state selected, fulfil all the requirements for their occupation (for the state in question) as well as submit any documents required for that state. You can also default to ‘any state’ as well to broaden your options.

What Can You Do with the 190 Visa?

With the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190, you can:

  • Live in Australia permanently
  • Work and study in Australia
  • Bring your close family and dependents to Australia
  • Sponsor relatives for many temporary Australian visas
  • Move freely throughout Australia after spending the first two years in your nominating territory

To apply for this visa, you must

  • have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
  • be nominated for this visa by an Australian state or territory government agency.
  • receive an invitation to apply for this visa
  • have enough points to be eligible to apply
  • be aged under 45 when invited