Complete guide to the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa: how state and territory nomination works, state occupation lists, the +5 point boost, processing times, and pathway to permanent residency.
The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa is a permanent residency visa awarded to skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Unlike the 189, it requires state nomination but gives you an extra 5 points and opens up occupations that states specifically need.
| Visa type | Permanent, state/territory nominated |
| Duration | Permanent |
| Work rights | Full — moral commitment to live in nominating state/territory for 2 years |
| Points boost | +5 for state nomination |
| Age limit | Under 45 at invitation |
| Occupation list | State/territory nomination lists (vary by state) |
| English | Competent English minimum (higher scores more competitive) |
| Approx. base cost | ~A$4,640 main applicant (check current fee) |
Target state-listed occupations — browse jobs by state
Use our filters to narrow by location, salary, and work arrangement.
Each state and territory publishes its own occupation list and eligibility criteria, refreshed every program year (typically July). Nomination priorities shift based on local labour market needs:
Submit EOI in SkillSelect
Flag that you want to be nominated by specific states. You can select multiple.
Apply to state/territory
Most states run their own application system with additional criteria beyond points.
Receive nomination
If approved, the state nominates you and you automatically receive an invitation to apply.
Lodge visa application
60 days from invitation. Evidence all points claims and state eligibility criteria.
Decision
Processing typically 10–22 months. Living in nominating state is an obligation, not a hard visa condition.
Do I have to live in the nominating state?
It is a moral commitment of 2 years, not a formal visa condition. Most states take it seriously — repeated breaches can affect future visas and partner/family applications.
Can I choose my sponsoring state?
You can submit EOIs to multiple states, but each state has its own criteria. Some states require a prior connection (study, work, residence, partner).
Does 190 lead to citizenship?
Yes, via the standard PR-to-citizenship pathway: 4 years lawful residence including at least 1 year as PR.
How is 190 different from 491?
190 is permanent PR from day one with a moral state commitment. 491 is a 5-year provisional regional visa that leads to 191 PR after 3 years of regional residence.
When do state lists reopen?
Typically early July each year, aligned with the Australian migration program year. Some states have rolling intake and pause periodically when quotas fill.
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Disclaimer: This information is general guidance only and may change at any time without notice. Immigration law and visa conditions are complex and individual circumstances vary. Always verify current requirements at homeaffairs.gov.au. This content does not constitute legal or migration advice. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or immigration lawyer for advice tailored to your situation.
