The 190 state sponsored visa, officially known as the Skilled Nominated Subclass 190 visa, is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government.
This visa allows eligible professionals to live and work permanently in Australia while supporting regional and state workforce needs.
Contents
What Is the 190 State Sponsored Visa?
The 190 state sponsored visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa. Applicants must receive nomination from an Australian state or territory government before they can apply.
Nomination provides additional points toward the migration points test and demonstrates that the applicant’s occupation is in demand in that state.
Core Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 190 state sponsored visa, applicants must:
- Be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Have an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list
- Receive state or territory nomination
- Score at least 65 points on the migration points test
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
- Meet competent English language requirements
- Obtain a positive skills assessment
- Pass health and character checks
Each state may impose additional nomination criteria.
How State Nomination Works
Applicants first submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. States and territories review EOIs and invite eligible candidates to apply for nomination.
Nomination approval is required before the visa application can proceed.
Benefits of the 190 Visa
- Permanent residency upon approval
- Access to Medicare
- Ability to sponsor eligible family members
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
- Freedom to work and study in Australia
Unlike provisional regional visas, the 190 state sponsored visa grants immediate permanent status.
Points Test Factors
- Age
- English proficiency
- Skilled employment experience
- Educational qualifications
- Australian study requirement
- Partner skills
- State nomination (5 additional points)
Higher points scores increase the likelihood of receiving an invitation.
Application Process
- Step 1: Obtain skills assessment
- Step 2: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Step 3: Receive state nomination invitation
- Step 4: Lodge visa application
- Step 5: Complete medical and police checks
- Step 6: Await Department of Home Affairs decision
Processing times vary depending on application volume and occupation demand.
State Obligations
Although the 190 visa grants permanent residency, applicants are generally expected to live and work in the nominating state for a specified period.
Costs Involved
- Visa application charge
- State nomination fee
- Skills assessment fees
- English test fees
- Medical examination costs
Fee amounts vary depending on state and family members included.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Incorrect points claim
- Invalid skills assessment
- Failure to meet English requirements
- Inconsistent employment history
Accurate documentation and honest points calculation are essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 190 visa permanent?
Yes. The 190 state sponsored visa grants permanent residency upon approval.
Do I need a job offer?
Not always. Some states require employment evidence, while others do not.
Can family members be included?
Yes. Eligible dependents may be included in the application.
Final Thoughts
The 190 state sponsored visa provides a direct pathway to permanent residence in Australia for skilled professionals nominated by a state or territory. Meeting points requirements and state nomination criteria significantly improves success rates.