The Subclass 190 State Nominated visa is a permanent residency pathway for skilled workers who receive nomination from an Australian state or territory government. It adds 5 points to your points test score, which can be the crucial difference between receiving an invitation and waiting indefinitely in the SkillSelect queue.
How state nomination works
- Check state occupation lists — each state publishes its own list of occupations it will nominate for, which may differ from the national skilled occupation list
- Meet state-specific requirements — each state has its own criteria beyond the federal visa requirements
- Apply for state nomination — submit an application directly to the state government
- Receive nomination — if approved, the state nominates you in SkillSelect
- Receive invitation — with the 5 bonus points, you receive an invitation to apply for the 190 visa
- Lodge visa application — within 60 days of invitation
Key state programs
New South Wales (NSW)
NSW targets high-value occupations, particularly in health, engineering, IT, and trades. Requirements typically include having a job offer or working in NSW, or meeting a high points threshold. NSW receives the most applications nationally and is highly competitive.
Victoria (VIC)
Victoria has a broad occupation list and actively seeks skilled workers across many sectors. Requirements generally include a commitment to living and working in Victoria, relevant work experience, and meeting minimum points thresholds.
South Australia (SA)
South Australia has one of the most accessible nomination programs, with a large occupation list and pathways for international graduates. SA also has a strong DAMA program for regional employers.
Queensland (QLD)
Queensland focuses on occupations in demand within the state, with requirements that typically include relevant work experience and a commitment to living in Queensland.
Western Australia (WA)
WA has a targeted occupation list focused on the state's key industries: mining, resources, health, and trades. The Graduate stream is available for WA university graduates.
Tasmania (TAS)
Tasmania has traditionally been one of the most accessible states for nomination, with pathways for people who have studied, worked, or have family in Tasmania.
ACT
The ACT uses a matrix-based system that scores applicants on factors like ACT residency, employment, and English ability. Living and working in the ACT is usually required.
Northern Territory (NT)
The NT actively recruits skilled workers to address labour shortages. Requirements often include a commitment to living in the NT and employment or a job offer in the Territory.
190 vs 189: which should you pursue?
- Score 75+? → 189 may be sufficient depending on your occupation; also apply for 190 as a backup
- Score 65-74? → 190 is likely your best pathway; the 5 bonus points bring you to 70-79
- Occupation not on 189 list? → check state lists; some states nominate occupations not on the national list
- Want to live anywhere? → 189 has no geographic restrictions; 190 requires you to live in the nominating state for at least 2 years
The 2-year obligation
If granted a 190 visa, you are expected to live and work in the nominating state for at least 2 years. While this is not a formal visa condition (your visa remains valid wherever you live), breaking this commitment can affect future nomination applications and is tracked by state governments.
Tips for a successful nomination
- Research multiple states — your occupation may be on one state's list but not another's
- Meet state requirements exactly — each state has specific documentation requirements; incomplete applications are often rejected
- Apply to multiple states — you can apply for nomination from more than one state simultaneously (though you can only accept one)
- Demonstrate genuine commitment — states prefer applicants who genuinely intend to live and work there, not those who plan to move to Sydney the moment they get PR
State nomination programs change frequently — occupation lists, requirements, and quotas are updated regularly. A registered migration agent who monitors state programs can advise which states currently offer the best pathway for your specific occupation and circumstances.