Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) — eligibility, costs & how to apply

What is the subclass 190?

The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government. Nomination adds 5 points to your score and can make the difference between waiting and being invited.

Each state and territory runs its own program with its own occupation lists, thresholds and living/working expectations, and these change through the year. Choosing the right state for your occupation and profile is the single biggest lever on a 190 — and where applicants most often go wrong on their own.

Eligibility for the subclass 190

To be eligible for the subclass 190, you generally need to meet the following:

• Your occupation is on the nominating state or territory's skilled occupation list
• You hold a positive skills assessment for that occupation
• You are nominated by a state or territory government
• You score at least 65 points including the 5 points for nomination
• You are under 45 and have at least competent English
• You usually commit to live and work in the nominating state

How to apply for the subclass 190

1. Choose a state/territory whose program suits your occupation and profile
2. Have your skills assessed and submit an EOI selecting that state
3. Apply for, and receive, state or territory nomination
4. Receive your invitation and lodge a complete visa application

Processing time and cost of the subclass 190

A subclass 190 involves two timeframes — the state nomination decision and then the visa decision — and both vary by state and demand. Some states open and close their programs during the year, so timing your application well matters. There is a visa application charge for you and each included family member. A registered migration agent can advise which states are currently open for your occupation and how long each step is taking.

Subclass 190 vs 189 vs 491

The 190 is permanent like the 189 but adds 5 points for state nomination, in exchange for a commitment to that state. The 491 adds 15 points but is provisional (regional) with a later pathway to permanent residence. If your 189 score is not competitive, a 190 is often the strongest permanent option — provided a state is nominating your occupation.

Common subclass 190 mistakes to avoid

Many of these matters come down to avoidable mistakes. The most common issues include:

• Applying to a state that is not nominating your occupation
• Not genuinely intending to live in the nominating state
• Points or skills-assessment claims that cannot be evidenced
• Missing a state's specific work-experience or commitment requirements

Do you need a migration agent for the subclass 190?

Using a registered migration agent is not compulsory, but the subclass 190 is detail-heavy and a single mistake, missing document or late response can lead to delay or refusal — and a refusal can affect future applications. A registered migration agent confirms your eligibility before you spend money, prepares your evidence, lodges your application correctly and manages any requests from the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf. Through Immigration Expert you can be matched with up to three OMARA-registered agents who handle the subclass 190 every day, compare their advice, and choose who to work with — free and with no obligation.