Australia is a top destination for skilled professionals seeking permanent residence and better quality of life. A popular migration route is skilled enrolled visa subclass 190, which allows skilled workers to live and work permanently in a specific Australian state or region.
If you are planning to apply for this visa, understanding 190 visa requirements is the first and most important step. This broad guide makes you walk who is eligible, what is involved in the process, and how to increase the possibility of being approved in 2025.
What Is the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190?
The Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190 is a points-tested permanent residency visa. It is designed for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Unlike the Subclass 189 visa (which is independent), the 190 visa requires state sponsorship.
With the 190 visa, you can:
Live and work permanently in Australia
Study in Australia
Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare)
Sponsor relatives to come to Australia
Apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
Who Can Apply for the 190 Visa?
To apply for the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Below are the essential 190 visa requirements:
✅ Key 190 Visa Requirements (As of 2025)
1. Nominated Occupation
Your occupation must be listed on the relevant state or territory skilled occupation list, which varies between regions. This is one of the most important 190 visa requirements, as you cannot apply if your occupation is not listed.
2. Skills Assessment
You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation. This verifies that your skills and qualifications meet Australian standards.
3. State or Territory Nomination
You must receive a nomination from a state or territory government. Each state has its own criteria, such as work experience, education, and English language level.
For example:
New South Wales might prioritize IT professionals
Victoria may focus on healthcare or engineering roles
South Australia often supports regional applicants
4. Points Test – Minimum 65 Points
You must score at least 65 points on the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test. The higher your points, the better your chances of receiving a nomination and invitation to apply.
Points are awarded for:
Age (maximum points for 25-32 years)
English proficiency (extra points for superior scores)
Skilled work experience
Education qualifications
Partner’s skills and English level
Australian study or regional study
State nomination (adds 5 points automatically)
5. Age Limit
You must be under 45 years of age at the time of receiving the invitation to apply for the visa.
6. English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate competent English:
IELTS: At least 6 in each component
PTE: At least 50 in each section
Higher scores can earn you more points.
7. Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
Before applying for the visa, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect. The Australian Government and state/territory authorities use this system to evaluate and invite skilled workers.
8. Health and Character Checks
You must meet Australian health and character requirements. This usually involves undergoing medical exams and providing police clearances from countries where you’ve lived for more than 12 months.
State Nomination: A Key Step in the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190
Each Australian state and territory has different criteria for nomination. These can include:
Residency requirements (you may need to live in the state before applying)
Work experience in the nominated occupation
Job offers from local employers
Ties to the state (study, family, etc.)
It’s important to research the specific guidelines for the state you wish to apply for. Some states prioritize occupations in high demand, while others support regional migration or international graduates from local universities.
Application Process for the 190 Visa
Here’s a simplified step-by-step outline of the process to apply for the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that your occupation is on the state’s occupation list and that you meet the 190 visa requirements, including age, skills assessment, and English proficiency.
Step 2: Get a Skills Assessment
Apply to the relevant authority for your nominated occupation and obtain a positive skills assessment.
Step 3: Submit Your EOI (Expression of Interest)
Register your interest through SkillSelect. Indicate that you are seeking nomination from one or more states.
Step 4: Wait for State Nomination
If a state is interested in your profile, they will contact you and invite you to apply for nomination. Submit your nomination application with the required documents.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Once nominated, you’ll receive an ITA from the Department of Home Affairs to apply for the visa.
Step 6: Lodge Your Visa Application
Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs and submit all necessary documents, including police checks, medical exams, and proof of English.
Step 7: Visa Decision
If approved, you’ll be granted the 190 visa with permanent residency status.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and the state. On average:
l State nomination takes 4–12 weeks
l Visa processing can take 6–9 months after lodging the application
To avoid delays, ensure that your documentation is complete and accurate.
Benefits of the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190
Permanent Residency: Unlike temporary visas, this provides long-term stability.
Extra Points for Nomination: State nomination adds 5 points to your EOI score.
Access to Services: Medicare, education, and work rights for you and your family.
Pathway to Citizenship: After meeting residency requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship.
Final Tips for a Successful Application
l Stay Updated: Visa requirements and occupation lists can change yearly. Always check the latest criteria.
l Target the Right State: Apply for nomination in a state that needs your skills and matches your profile.
l Consult a Professional: Consider working with a registered migration agent to guide you through the process.
Conclusion
Skilled enrolled visa subclass 190 Australia has an excellent route to permanent residence, especially willing to contribute to a specific state or region for skilled workers. By meeting the 190 -visa requirements and align your skills with state needs, you greatly improve the chances of success.
Be informed, prepare your documents quickly, and be strategic about where you apply. With the right approach, the 190 -visa can open the door for a safe and prosperous future in Australia.
