Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent visa that lets skilled workers live and work in Australia — but with one condition: you need to be nominated by a state or territory government. This visa is perfect if your job is in demand in a particular part of Australia and you’re happy to settle there.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Here’s what you need to be eligible for the 190 visa:
Your job must be on the skilled occupation list
First, check if your profession is on the official list for this visa. If it’s there, you’re off to a good start.
You need to be nominated by a state or territory
Before you can apply, a state or territory in Australia needs to officially nominate you based on their local job needs.
You must score at least 65 points
Australia uses a points system for skilled visas. You earn points based on things like:
- Your age
- English language skills
- Work experience
- Education level
- Partner’s skills
- State nomination (this gives you an extra 5 points automatically)
You should be under 45 years old
You must be younger than 45 at the time you receive your invitation to apply.
You need to prove your English is good enough
You need a positive skills assessment
You’ll need to show competent English – usually an IELTS score of at least 6 in each band, or an equivalent test result.
You must meet health and character checks
You have to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
You can’t just apply directly. First, you register your interest through a system called SkillSelect, and then wait for an invitation from a state or territory.
You need to agree to live in the state that nominates you
Highlights of the Subclass 190 Visa
- An applicant must be invited to apply for the Visa.
- Satisfy the points test.
- Applicant must have suitable skill assessment for occupation.
- Must meet health and character requirements.