190 Visa

Thinking about applying for a 190 Skilled Visa?

The Skylark team has a combined 57+ years of experience helping clients apply for the 190 Skilled Nominated Visa. We proudly maintain a 100% success rate for 190 Visa applications since 2015.

From our Melbourne | Australia HQ, we’ve assisted clients from over 106 countries and counting.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Australian Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa.

Obligation-free, limited sessions each week

What is a Subclass 190 Skilled Visa?

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa is a permanent visa for skilled workers who want to migrate to Australia. It’s often referred to as the ‘190 skilled independent visa’.

Unlike the 189 Visa, this visa also requires you to be nominated by an Australian state or territory government. It’s a points-tested visa, with points awarded based on factors like age, English language skills, work experience and qualifications.

We’ll help you understand your eligibility and the best strategy to secure a nomination and your 190 visa.

What is the 190 Visa application process?

The 190 Visa application process involves the following steps:

We’ll assess your eligibility and likelihood of success.

We’ll guide you through the Skills Assessment process.

We’ll submit your state/territory Registration of Interest for your state nomination.

We’ll submit an Expression of Interest to Home Affairs for your visa application.

We’ll assist you with the State Nomination application.

We’ll wait for your invitation to apply for your Skilled Visa.

We’ll help you prepare and apply for your 190 Visa.

What makes the 190 Skilled Visa different from other skilled visas?

The 190 Visa is a strong choice for skilled professionals who want to migrate to Australia but may not meet the criteria for the 189 Visa, such as specific occupations or higher points scores.

This visa includes an additional step: you must be nominated by a state or territory government. These governments select applicants based on their skills, experience and potential contribution to the local economy.

Here’s what makes the 190 Visa great:

It’s a permanent visa, so you get Australian permanent residency as soon as it’s granted

The occupation list is larger than for the 189 Visa

In most states, 65 points is enough for a realistic chance of getting invited, no matter how many others apply

You get 5 extra points just by being nominated by a state or territory

You can access Medicare as soon as you apply

You’re free to travel in and out of Australia for five years

Your application is prioritised for processing

There are also some downsides:

You’ll need to be nominated by a state or territory, which means:

  • Submitting a separate application and waiting for their decision
  • Meeting specific state or territory rules, which may depend on:
    • Where you studied
    • How long you’ve lived there
    • Your nominated occupation
  • Declaring that you’ll live in that state or territory for at least two years


Right now (2023) is one of the best times to apply for this visa. Invitation points cut-offs are the lowest they’ve been in five years and the 190 Visa is a key focus for the government due to skills shortages.

How long does it take to process a 190 Skilled Visa?

The Department of Home Affairs provides the following average processing times for the 190 Visa (as of March 2023):

25% of applications:

within 87 days

50% of applications:

within 7 months

75% of applications:

within 18 months

90% of applications:

within 36 months

In addition, you need to allow time for the state nomination stage. This varies depending on the state, but on average it adds another 2 to 3 months.

These timeframes are only estimates and can be longer if your application is incomplete or needs further assessment.

What are the requirements for the 190 Skilled Visa?

To be eligible for a 190 Visa, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

State or territory nomination

Each state or territory has its own eligibility rules. Our 1-to-1 PR Strategy Sessions are designed to help you work out which state or territory is best for you

Eligible occupation

You must nominate an occupation that appears on the STSOL. You can use our Ultimate Guide to Immigration Occupation Lists to check which occupations are eligible

Skills assessment

You must get a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority for your occupation

Points test

You’ll need a minimum of 65 points. The state or territory nomination gives you 5 extra points. Points are awarded for age, English, work experience, education and more

Age

You must be under 45 years old when you apply

English proficiency

You need to demonstrate at least Competent English. That means:

  • IELTS: 6 in each band
  • PTE: 50 in each band
  • TOEFL iBT: 12 in listening, 13 in reading, 21 in writing, 18 in speaking

Health and character

You must pass a health check and provide police certificates for each country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years

Expression of Interest (EOI)

You’ll need to submit an EOI through SkillSelect so the Australian Government can consider you for nomination

Why Skylark Migration?

We understand that choosing the right migration agent is crucial. Here are five reasons why Skylark Migration is the right fit for your Australian Skilled Visa journey:

Come and have a chat

Tell us about your situation, and we’ll try to help you get results like these:

Not sure where to start?

Book a free consultation with our migration experts, and we’ll help you understand your options and next steps.

Frequently asked questions

How can I increase my chances of getting state nominated?

Look into the requirements of different states and focus on those where your skills are in demand. Make sure your EOI highlights your commitment to living and working in that state.

You’re expected to live in the state that nominated you for at least two years. After that, you generally have more flexibility to move if needed.

We help with every step, from checking your eligibility and finding the right state for nomination to preparing your EOI and visa application. We make sure you meet all requirements so your application has the best chance of success.

How would you like to have your consultation?

Getting Australian PR can be tricky, but don’t worry, our experienced PR experts are here to help!
We have two options:
Option 1:

Book 1:1 Strategy Session

Are you a student, graduate or skilled professional? Don't have enough points, or not sure what your best options are to get PR?

What is included:

1) 30min in-depth consultation

2) 1-to-1 strategic planning session to get you from HERE to PR

3) Step-by-step recommendations by our most experienced migration agents and PR planning specialists

How would you like to have your consultation?

* Due to the complex nature of PR planning and in-depth research involved for high quality advice, this is a paid consultation.

Rest assured, initial consultations are 100% redeemable with most future service! (terms & conditions apply, see booking link for more).

Option 2:

Request Free Consulation

Please provide your details and a skilled migration specialist will be in touch. Due to high demand, spots are limited. If your case is urgent, consider booking a 1:1 Strategy Session with a senior migration agent for faster assistance.

Our senior migration consultants are experienced with all types of Australian visas
We have two options:
Book 1:1 Visa Strategy Session

What is included:

1) 30min in-depth consultation

2) 1-to-1 strategic planning session to get you from HERE to your migration goals

3) Step-by-step recommendations by our most experienced migration agents and PR planning specialists

How would you like to have your consultation?
Ask Us Here

We now have a dedicated FAQ page!

Ask questions and find answers from our experienced migration agents.

Our senior migration consultants are experienced with all types of Australian visas

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