Get nominated by an Australian state or territory and receive 5 bonus points towards your PR application. Direct pathway to permanent residence.
Each state has its own nomination criteria and in-demand occupation lists.
Sydney & surrounds. Strong in IT, Finance, Healthcare.
Melbourne. High demand for Engineers, Teachers, Medical.
Brisbane, Gold Coast. Tourism, Healthcare, Construction.
Perth. Mining, Engineering, Healthcare shortages.
Adelaide. Healthcare, IT, Trades in high demand.
Hobart. Lower thresholds, easier nomination process.
Canberra. Government jobs, IT, Professional services.
Darwin. Healthcare, Trades, Agriculture in demand.
State nomination opens doors when 189 seems out of reach.
State nomination adds 5 points to your score, helping you reach the 65+ threshold.
Permanent residence from day one. No provisional period required.
States have additional occupations not available for 189 visa.
Many states process nominations quickly - some within weeks.
Spouse, children and dependents included on your visa application.
Access Medicare, education subsidies, and all PR benefits.
Eligible for Australian citizenship after 4 years.
Some states offer settlement support and job assistance.
Understanding the differences between these two skilled PR visas.
| Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Type | Permanent Residence | Permanent Residence |
| Nomination Required | No | Yes - State/Territory |
| Bonus Points | None | +5 Points |
| Minimum Points | 65 (typically 80-90+ for invitation) | 65 (can be lower with state preference) |
| Location Restriction | None - Live anywhere | Commit to live in nominating state for 2 years |
| Occupation List | MLTSSL only | MLTSSL + State Specific Lists |
| Competition | Very High | Varies by state - Can be lower |
| Visa Fees | AUD 4,640 | AUD 4,640 + State fees (~$300-500) |
Step-by-step guide to your Subclass 190 visa application.
Get your occupation assessed by the relevant assessing authority. Ensure your occupation is on both the federal list and your target state's occupation list.
Take IELTS/PTE and calculate your points. Remember, state nomination will add 5 points to your total score.
Create your Expression of Interest and select the states you wish to be nominated by. You can select multiple states.
Apply directly to your chosen state/territory. Each has different requirements, processing times, and occupation lists.
Once nominated, you'll receive an invitation to apply for the 190 visa. You have 60 days to lodge your visa application.
Submit your visa application with all required documents. Processing typically takes 6-12 months. Once granted, make your initial entry and settle in your nominating state.
Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.
Subclass 190 is Australia's Skilled Nominated visa, requiring state or territory nomination. It grants permanent residence and allows you to live and work in Australia, with an initial commitment to the nominating state.
Unlike 189, Subclass 190 requires state nomination and adds 5 points to your score. You should commit to living in the nominating state for at least 2 years, though it's not legally binding.
All Australian states and territories offer 190 nomination: NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, ACT, and Northern Territory. Each has different occupation lists and requirements.
Minimum 65 points (including 5 nomination points). Competitive scores vary by state and occupation but typically range from 70-85+ points before nomination.
Apply directly to your preferred state's immigration website. Each state has unique requirements including occupation lists, work experience requirements, English scores, and commitment statements.
Occupations must be on both the MLTSSL/STSOL and your target state's occupation list. State lists change frequently, so check current requirements before applying.
While there's no legal restriction on moving, you're expected to commit to the nominating state for at least 2 years. Moving immediately may affect future visa applications.
Processing typically takes 6-12 months after lodging. State nomination processing adds 2-8 weeks before you can lodge your visa application.
Generally no, but some states like NSW and Victoria may prioritize applicants with job offers. Having employment lined up can strengthen your state nomination application.
Yes, spouse/de facto partner and dependent children can be included. Your spouse's skills, English, and qualifications can add points to your application.
Our experts will assess your profile and identify the best state nomination options for you.
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