Australia Skilled Nominated Visa (190) 2026: Full Guide

Q: How is the subclass 190 different from the 189?

The 190 requires nomination from an Australian state or territory government, while the 189 requires no sponsor at all. In exchange for state nomination, 190 applicants receive bonus points on the points test, which can make an invitation achievable at a lower base score.

Q: Do I have to live in the nominating state?

Generally, yes. States nominate candidates to help fill their own labour market gaps, and most expect you to live and work in that state for a period after arrival — check the specific commitment required by the state that nominates you.

Q: Can I apply to more than one state at once?

Rules vary by state — some allow simultaneous applications, others don't. Each state also runs its own occupation list and criteria, so eligibility for one state doesn't guarantee eligibility for another.

Who this suits

The subclass 190 works like the 189 — points-tested, permanent, independent of any employer — but with one key difference: you need nomination from an Australian state or territory government. In exchange, you receive bonus points on the points test, which often makes an invitation realistic at a lower base score than 189 requires.

Core requirements

State or territory nomination — approval from the specific state or territory you're applying to, based on their current occupation lists and priorities.
Nominated occupation — must be on that state's relevant skilled occupation list.
Skills assessment — a positive assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Points test — the same core points test as 189, plus bonus points for the nomination itself.

Most states expect nominated candidates to live and work in that state for a defined period after arrival — check the specific commitment before nominating, since it's a genuine condition, not just a formality.

How the process works

Skills assessment — from the authority relevant to your occupation.
Submit an EOI — through SkillSelect, indicating interest in specific states.
State nomination — the state reviews and, if approved, nominates you.
Invitation and visa application — nomination typically leads to an invitation, followed by the full application including health and character checks.

A note on accuracy: each state and territory sets its own occupation lists and criteria, and these open and close throughout the year. Nothing on this page is legal advice — your matched migration agent will confirm which states are currently open for your occupation.

Common questions

How is the subclass 190 different from the 189?

190 requires state or territory nomination; 189 requires no sponsor. In exchange, 190 applicants get bonus points, often making an invitation achievable at a lower base score.

Do I have to live in the nominating state?

Generally yes — states expect you to live and work there for a period after arrival. Check the specific commitment required.

Can I apply to more than one state at once?

Rules vary by state. Each also runs its own occupation list, so eligibility for one doesn't guarantee eligibility for another.

Skilled Nominated Visa (190)

Who this suits

Core requirements

How the process works

Common questions

How is the subclass 190 different from the 189?

Do I have to live in the nominating state?

Can I apply to more than one state at once?

Have a state in mind for your occupation?