Features
190 visa is points based and allows skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government live and work in Australia as a permanent resident.
Eligibility
- have a relevant occupation on the 190 visa occupation list
- have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation
- meet the points test pass mark of 65 points (as of 1 July 2018)
- be nominated by a state or territory government agency
- Lodge an EOI and be invited to apply
- Be aged between 18 and 44 inclusive
- have Competent English
- Meet health and character requirements
The process
Nomination by a State or Territory Government
Each State and Territory Government has its own list of occupations in demand in their area. There may be specific requirements in relation to your work experience, English language ability or specialised skills.
Submit an expression of interest (EOI) via SkillSelect with details of your nominated occupation, skills and qualifications. SkillSelect will estimate a points score; if you score high enough, Australian state and territory government agencies will be able to view your EOI and decide if they want to nominate you.
Points score
- You must be able to meet the points score on your invitation letter. This score will be 65 points (as of 1 July 2018) or more.
- The score on your invitation letter is based on the information in your EOI.
- You must be able to meet the points score eligibility at the time you are invited to apply for the visa.
Can I Apply in Australia or Overseas?
You can be in or outside Australia when you submit your EOI. You can either be in Australia or overseas when you apply for a Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa. To be able to lodge from within Australia, you would need to hold a substantive visa or a Bridging A, B or C visa. Once you apply from within Australia, you will receive a bridging visa allowing you to remain in Australia during processing of your visa application. If your current visa is refused or cancelled you might not be eligible to apply for the 189 visa while you were in Australia.
What you can do with a 190 visa
This is a permanent visa. It lets you:
- stay in Australia indefinitely
- work and study in Australia
- enrol in Medicare, Australia’s scheme for health-related care and expenses
- sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence
- travel to and from Australia for five years
- apply for Australian citizenship, if eligible.
