190 Skilled Nominated Visa


The Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190 Visa) is a points tested permanent residency visa for skilled migrants. This Skilled Visa does not require the sponsorship of an Australian employer; however it requires that applicants meet a point’s test pass mark and are nominated by an Australian State/Territory.
Step 1 – Identify a suitable occupation on the Skilled Occupation List

Applicants will first need to identify an occupation from the MLTSSL or STSOL which is currently being nominated by an Australian State/Territory for migration, which they are suitably qualified and experienced in.

A useful website to determine the occupations being sponsored by each State/Territory under the 190 Visa can be found here. 

Step 2 – Assess Points Test Score

Applicants will then need to assess their Points Score to determine if they meet the Points Test Pass Mark. Amongst others categories, points are awarded for an applicant’s Age, English ability, Work Experience and Qualifications, with the pass mark currently set at 60 (inclusive of the points awarded to you if you are Nominated by a State/Territory)..

For a useful summary of the breakdown of the points test click here.

Step 3 – Obtain a Migration Skills Assessment

Applicants will also need to obtain a Migration Skills Assessment from the appropriate Assessing Authority for their respective occupation.

Step 4 – Submit an Expression of Interest

Once a Migration Skills Assessment has been obtained and the applicants Points Score has been accurately calculated, they will be in a position to submit an Expression of Interest to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. During this process, applicants will need to nominate which State/Territory they wish to be considered for migration under.

Step 5 – Apply for State/Territory Nomination

Applicants will then be required to make a formal application for consideration under each States/Territories migration plan in order to be nominated for the 190 Visa.

Step 5 – Invited to Apply

Applicants will then need to wait until they are Invited to Apply for the Visa by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

Step 6 – Apply for the Visa

Once an Invitation to Apply has been received, applicants will have 60 days to submit their 190 Visa application for consideration.

In addition to the above, applicants and their family will need to meet strict health and character requirements in order to be granted this visa.