Subclass 190 Visa State Nomination Process

Australia is a popular choice for skilled professionals because of its strong job market, high quality of life, and long-term stability. The Subclass 190 visa (Skilled Nominated Visa) offers a direct pathway to permanent residence through nomination by an Australian state or territory. However, different state rules and competitive points requirements can make the process confusing. 

This guide breaks down the Subclass 190 visa. Read along to improve your chances of getting Australian PR.

What Is the Subclass 190 Visa in Australia?

Subclass 190 visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by state or territory governments. You need to satisfy certain eligibility requirements as well as meet the Australian points test with the required points, unlike other visas.

The main facts concerning the Subclass 190 visa are that:

  • It allows permanent living, working, and studying in Australia.
  • You must have a skill or a job that is included in the skilled occupation listing of the state or territory.
  • It has to be nominated by a state or a territory.
  • It provides additional points on the points test, which simplifies the invitation to be received.

It suits skilled workers who intend to relocate to Australia together with their family and spend the rest of their lives there.

Benefits of the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

The subclass 190 visa has a lot of advantages and is a favourable option for applicants. Key advantages include:

  • Permanent Residency: You are entitled to spend the work period in Australia as long as you have an Australian PR.
  • Family Inclusion: Your family, wife, husband, and children can be included in your visa.
  • Access to Healthcare: You can utilise Medicare in terms of healthcare.
  • Education Benefits: You have an opportunity to study in Australian schools at the local fee.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: Once you have satisfied the residency requirements, you can attempt to become an Australian citizen.
  • State Nomination Bonus Points: When nominated by a state, you receive 5 additional points on the points test, and this increases your chances of receiving an invitation.

Subclass 190 Visa vs Subclass 189 Visa

When considering permanent residency in Australia, you may also come across the Subclass 189 visa. Understanding the differences between these visas is important.

FeatureSubclass 189 VisaSubclass 190 Visa
TypeSkilled IndependentSkilled Nominated
Nomination RequiredNoYes (state/territory)
Points BonusNo+5 points for nomination
ResidencyPermanentPermanent; must live/work in the nominating state for 2 years
Occupation ListMLTSSLState-specific MLTSSL/STSOL

This comparison brings out the fact that, though both visas result in the permanent status of the person, the Subclass 190 visa has the added benefits of state nomination and additional points, making it a wise option for most skilled applicants.

Key Differences Between 189 and 190 Visa

Understanding the differences makes it easier to decide if the Subclass 189 or 190 visa suits your skills and points.

  • Nomination: The 189 visa is independent, meaning no state nomination is needed, while the 190 visa requires state nomination.
  • Points Test: 190 visa applicants get an additional 5 points for state nomination.
  • Occupation Requirements: 190 may accept a wider list of occupations based on state demand.

For skilled workers, the skilled nominated vs skilled independent visa choice depends on your points score and occupation eligibility.

Subclass 190 Visa Requirements

Before applying, it is important to understand the subclass 190 visa requirements. Meeting these requirements is essential for a successful application.

Age Requirement

  • You must be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
  • Applicants aged 25–32 years get maximum points under the points test.
  • Points decrease with age: 25 points (18–24 years), 30 points (25–32), 25 points (33–39), 15 points (40–44).

English Language Requirement

  • Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.
  • Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
  • Higher English proficiency scores increase points under the points test.

Skilled Work Experience

  • You must have relevant work experience in your nominated occupation.
  • Points are awarded based on the number of years of work experience:
    • 3–5 years: 5 points
    • 5–8 years: 10 points
    • 8+ years: 15 points

Educational Qualifications

  • A recognized bachelor’s or higher degree is required for most skilled occupations.
  • Points are allocated for higher qualifications:
    • Bachelor’s degree: 15 points
    • Master’s degree: 15–20 points
    • PhD: 20 points

Occupation List (MLTSSL / STSOL)

  • Your occupation must be on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL).
  • Each state may have different occupation requirements for nomination.

State Nomination Requirement

  • You must apply for state nomination from one of Australia’s states or territories.
  • Each state has its own eligibility criteria, including work experience, occupation demand, and residence commitment.

Subclass 190 Points Requirement Explained

The subclass 190 points determine your eligibility to receive an invitation to apply. The minimum points required are 65, but most competitive applicants score 70–85 points.

Minimum Points Required

To be eligible for the Subclass 190 visa, you should attain 65 points in the points test. To boost your chances of an invitation, one would recommend getting a score of 70 points and above, since the higher the points you get, the higher the probability of getting invited.

  • Minimum: 65 points
  • Recommended for higher chances: 70+ points

Points Breakdown (Age, English, Experience, Education)

The points breakdown shows how different factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and education contribute to your total score for the Subclass 190 visa.

CriteriaPoints
Age18–24: 25, 25–32: 30, 33–39: 25, 40–44: 15
EnglishCompetent: 0, Proficient: 10, Superior: 20
Skilled Work Experience (Outside Australia)3–5 years: 5, 5–8 years: 10, 8+ years: 15
Skilled Work Experience (In Australia)1–3 years: 5, 3–5 years: 10, 5–8 years: 15, 8+ years: 20
EducationBachelor’s: 15, Master’s: 15–20, PhD: 20
State Nomination5 points

With this information on the point allocation, you can realise what to concentrate on in order to get maximum points and have a better chance of getting an invitation.

State Nomination Bonus Points

State nomination provides an additional 5 points to your overall score, which can significantly boost your chances of receiving an invitation through SkillSelect. Key benefits include:

  • Better eligibility: It assists individuals who are almost at the minimum points required.
  • Increased competitiveness: It increases your application to the system.
  • Better opportunities of ITA: It gives you better chances of getting an Invitation to Apply to Subclass 190 visa.

This incentive will help the Subclass 190 visa become more achievable for skilled workers.

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Step-by-Step Subclass 190 Visa State Nomination Process

The Subclass 190 visa procedure has numerous steps. The application can be made simpler by knowing each step.

Step 1: Skills Assessment

  • Submit your qualifications and experience with an accredited body to send your skills assessment.
  • Ensure that your job title appears on the list of approved ones and that your documents are in accordance with the assessment regulations.

Step 2: Place Expression of Interest (EOI).

  • Make your Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
  • Provide information regarding your abilities, previous employment, and the ratings that you have received.
  • Those who are invited will be those individuals who have attained the required point threshold through their EOI.

Step 3: Get nominated on a State level

  • Select a state or a territory and nominate it.
  • Every state can demand some additional things, like a promise to reside there or an employment opportunity.
  • You will receive 5 points on your EOI score in case you state nomination.

Step 4: Invitation to apply (ITA)

  • After satisfying the eligibility criteria and meeting the minimum required points, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
  • You have the chance with ITA of submitting your formal visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.

Step 5: Lodge Visa Application

  • Prepare all the documentation and online Subclass 190 visa application.
  • Make the payments and ensure that everything is right with no delays.

Documents Required for Subclass 190 Visa

To submit an application for the Subclass 190 visa, carry with you the following papers:

  • Passport and ID
  • Skills evaluation certificate.
  • English test results
  • Letters of work experience on the job.
  • College or university diplomas.
  • State nomination approval
  • Character certificates (medical test, police record)

Store these files in sequence to be able to make the visa process quicker.

Explore: How to Navigate Employer-Sponsored Visa Successfully

Subclass 190 Visa Processing Time

Processing time varies depending on factors such as your occupation, points score, and completeness of documents.

Average Processing Time

The processing time for the Subclass 190 visa depends on each stage of the application, from skills assessment to visa approval.

StageDuration
Skills Assessment4–8 weeks
State Nomination2–12 weeks
Visa Processing6–12 months (average)

These timelines give a clear idea of how long each step may take, helping you plan your application process more effectively.

Factors Affecting Processing Speed

Several factors can influence how quickly your Subclass 190 visa application is processed, affecting the overall timeline.

  • Accuracy and completeness of documents
  • Occupation demand and points score
  • Health or character issues
  • Verification delays by assessing authorities

The process can be sped up by keeping the documentation clear and following all the steps with the right guidance. 

Conclusion

The Subclass 190 visa is one that ensures that one can spend their life in Australia. The tips on who can apply, what you need, and how an individual can become a permanent resident will help you get your permanent residency.

Complete your Subclass 190 application with Visa Axis. We provide you with professional assistance and the right guidance to permanently settle in Australia.

FAQs

It is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state/territory. With a two-year commitment, you can live, work, and study indefinitely. It is perfect for professionals like nurses or IT professionals from India who would wish to have family-friendly permanent residence.

A minimum of 65 points would be required. Scoring 70 – 85 points, you have a better chance of an invitation. This comes with an extra 5 points for state nomination, too. Use a calculator to check where you are by using an online calculator.

Applicants must be less than 45 years, show good English speaking ability, have relevant work experience & qualifications, have a job listed on the state’s skilled occupation list, and get the state nomination approved. The best outcome starts with a proper skills assessment.

Applications are typically between 6 and 12 months, based on the importance of the occupation and how well your papers are finished. Priority jobs are handled earlier in time. Looks into your progress in ImmiAccount.

The primary applicant costs AUD4640, and there are additional costs that are paid by relatives. A complete package comprising skills tests and medical checks usually costs approximately AUD 10,000, budget to have plans to spend accordingly.

Author

  • Ali Mavli is a seasoned immigration expert with over 8 years of experience in the field of visa consultation and immigration services. As a key member of the VisaAxis.co team, Ali has successfully guided countless individuals and families through the complexities of the visa application process, helping them achieve their dreams of studying, working, and living abroad.

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