Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
Points-tested permanent residence with a state/territory nomination that adds 5 points and can rescue a borderline score.
Official Australia pageWho this route is for
Skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government, typically because their occupation is in demand there and they meet that state's specific (often stricter) criteria.
Eligibility requirements
- Be nominated by a state or territory government and then invited to apply; nomination adds 5 points to your score.
- Occupation on the relevant state/territory skilled occupation list with a positive skills assessment.
- Under 45 at invitation; at least Competent English (IELTS 6 / equivalent).
- Meet the 65-point minimum to lodge an EOI, but each state sets its own higher thresholds plus job-offer, work-experience or residency conditions.
- Usually a commitment to live and work in the nominating state (commonly around 2 years).
- Meet health and character requirements.
Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.
Recent changes & caveats
2025-26 state/territory nomination allocations were reduced significantly across NSW, Victoria, WA and SA, making nomination more competitive. Each state runs its own program with distinct lists and rules, so eligibility is effectively two-layered (state criteria plus the federal points test).
Check your points first
Use the free Skilled Migration Points Calculator to see if you're likely to qualify before you start.
Other Australia routes
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) - Points-tested stream
PermanentThe flagship 'no sponsor needed' permanent visa: score enough points, get invited, then live and work anywhere in Australia.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
ProvisionalA 5-year regional provisional visa worth a big +15 points, designed as a stepping stone to PR via subclass 191.
Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191)
PermanentThe permanent-residence finish line for 491 (and old 494) holders who have lived and earned in regional Australia for three years.
Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) - Core / Specialist / Essential streams
TemporaryThe renamed and rebuilt TSS visa (since Dec 2024): employer-sponsored work for up to 4 years with a faster, more portable path to PR.