Subclass 190 Visa: Your 2026 Guide to Skilled State Nomination

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian state or territory government. Unlike the 189 visa, the 190 visa requires a nomination, but in exchange, it provides an additional 5 points toward your points test, often making the difference between an invitation and a long wait.

What is a 190 Visa in Australia?

The 190 visa is a points-tested, permanent resident (PR) visa. From the day your visa is granted, you have the right to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely, though you are expected to live in your nominating state for the first two years.

Key Benefits of the Subclass 190

• Permanent Residency: You can stay in Australia indefinitely.
• Medicare Access: Enrol in Australia's public healthcare scheme.
• Citizenship Pathway: Apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
• Work Flexibility: You are not tied to a single employer, unlike sponsored work visas.

190 Visa Requirements for 2026

To qualify for a visa 190, you must meet both the federal requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs and the specific 190 state nomination criteria.

Federal Eligibility

• Points Test: You must score at least 65 points (including the 5 points from state nomination).
• Age: Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
• English Language: Prove at least "Competent English" (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent).
• Skills Assessment: Have a positive assessment for an occupation on the skilled nominated visa list.

State-Specific Requirements

Each state has its own visa 190 requirements. For example:

• NSW & Victoria: Priority is given to sectors like Health, Education, and Infrastructure.
• ACT: Uses the "Canberra Matrix" system with specific 190 visa salary requirements for onshore residents.
• Western Australia: Often requires a WA employment contract for at least 6 months.

The 190 Visa Process: Step-by-Step

The 190 visa process is a multi-stage journey that requires careful planning.

1. Skills Assessment: Secure a positive assessment for your nominated occupation.
2. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI via SkillSelect, indicating your interest in 190 state nominations.
3. Registration of Interest (ROI): Some states, like Victoria, require a separate ROI on their local portal.
4. State Nomination: If selected, you apply to the state. Once approved, you receive a formal invitation to apply for 190 visa.
5. Visa Lodgement: You have 60 days to submit your final 190 visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.

Working with Australian Migration Lawyers during this process ensures all documentation is correct, deadlines are met, and your EOI is optimised for success.

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190 Visa Conditions After Granted

While the visa subclass 190 is a permanent visa, there are a few "moral" and legal obligations. Typical 190 visa conditions include:

• Two-Year Commitment: You are expected to live and work in the state that nominated you for the first two years.
• Stay Informed: You must keep the state updated on your address and employment status during this period.

Get in touch with us

The Subclass 190 visa is an excellent pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers willing to commit to a state or territory. Careful planning, understanding state-specific requirements, and maximising your points are key to success.

For tailored advice and expert guidance, reach out to Australian Migration Lawyers. We can help you navigate the state nomination process, optimise your points, and improve your chances of securing a Subclass 190 visa in 2026.

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FAQ: Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa

Is 190 visa permanent?

Yes, the visa 190 is a permanent residency visa. You do not need to apply for another visa to stay in Australia, though you will need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) if you travel abroad after the initial 5-year travel facility expires.

What are the 190 visa work experience requirements?

While the federal government requires a skills assessment, individual states often require at least 6 to 12 months of 190 visa work experience in your nominated field to be eligible for nomination.

How do I get a 190 bridging visa?

If you apply for the sc 190 while inside Australia on a substantive visa, you will automatically be granted a 190 bridging visa (typically Bridging Visa A) to allow you to remain in the country while your PR is being processed.

What are the chef 190 visa requirements?

Chefs are currently in high demand. Requirements generally include a Certificate IV or Diploma, a positive Skills Assessment (usually via TRA), and meeting the state-specific points threshold for hospitality.