The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is a permanent visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. It works like the 189 (points test, skills assessment, invitation through SkillSelect), but the nomination adds 5 points and lets each state choose people who fit its own labour market.
The 190 visa charge is A$6,140 for the main applicant (from 1 July 2026).
At a Glance
| Requirement | 190 Skilled Nominated |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Permanent |
| Nomination | By a state or territory government agency |
| Points test pass mark | 65 points (nomination adds 5) |
| Age | Under 45 when invited |
| English | At least Competent at the time of invitation |
| Occupation | On the relevant skilled occupation list for the 190 |
| Skills assessment | Suitable assessment for your occupation |
| Visa charge (main applicant) | A$6,140 |
How State Nomination Works
You lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect and select the state or territory you're interested in. State and territory agencies can see completed EOIs. Each sets its own criteria, which can include:
- an occupation on the state's own list
- living or working in the state already
- a minimum points score or work experience
- a separate application or registration of interest with the state, sometimes with a fee
If a state nominates you, Home Affairs invites you to apply. Without a nomination, you can't be invited for the 190. Each of the eight states and territories runs its own program and opens and closes it during the year, so check the state agency's current criteria before you rely on them.
States usually ask you to commit to living and working there for a period after the visa is granted.
Who Can Get a 190 Visa
Home Affairs says you must:
- be nominated by a state or territory government agency
- have an occupation on the relevant skilled list and a suitable skills assessment
- be invited to apply through SkillSelect
- score at least 65 points, including the 5 nomination points (points test guide)
- be under 45 when invited
- have at least Competent English when invited
- meet health and character requirements
If you hold, or last held, a 491 or 494 visa, you must have held it for at least 3 years before you can apply.
What the 190 Visa Costs
| Charge | Amount |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | A$6,140 |
| Each additional applicant 18 or over | A$3,070 |
| Each additional applicant under 18 | A$1,535 |
A second instalment applies to family members aged 18 or over without Functional English. Some states also charge their own nomination application fee.
How to Apply for a 190 Visa
1. Check the state's criteria
Pick the state or states where your occupation and profile fit, and read their current requirements.
2. Get a skills assessment and English test
Both must be valid at the time of invitation.
3. Lodge an EOI in SkillSelect (and any state application)
Some states nominate from SkillSelect directly. Others need a separate registration or application.
4. Receive the nomination and invitation
Once the state nominates you, Home Affairs sends the invitation.
5. Lodge your visa application within 60 days
Provide evidence for every points claim, plus health and character documents for every applicant.
190 vs 189 vs 491
| 189 | 190 | 491 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa type | Permanent | Permanent | Provisional (5 years) |
| Nomination | None | State or territory | State/territory or eligible relative |
| Extra points | 0 | 5 | 15 |
| Where you live | Anywhere | The nominating state, for a period | A designated regional area |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points do I need for a 190 visa?
At least 65, including the 5 points for state nomination. States often expect more, depending on the occupation and how many applicants they have.
Do I have to live in the nominating state?
States usually ask you to commit to living and working in the state for a period after grant. Check the nominating state's current requirements.
How much does the 190 visa cost?
A$6,140 for the main applicant from 1 July 2026, plus A$3,070 for each additional applicant aged 18 or over and A$1,535 for each child under 18. Some states also charge a nomination fee.
Can I apply to more than one state?
You can select more than one state in a single EOI or lodge separate EOIs, but each state applies its own rules, and some ask that you have not applied elsewhere.
Get Help With a 190 Visa
State programs change often and each has its own rules. A registered migration agent can tell you which state is realistic for your occupation and points. Tell us your situation and we'll introduce you to registered migration agents near you. It's free to ask.
This page is general information, not immigration advice. Source: Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), Department of Home Affairs.