Close to the 189 threshold
Your points score is close to but not at the 189 invitation threshold. The 5-point nomination bonus can close the gap.
State Nominated · Permanent from Grant
Subclass 190, when the 189 is out of reach.
If you cannot get to the high points score the Subclass 189 demands, the Subclass 190 opens a second door. It costs you a two-year commitment to live and work in a nominating state. In exchange, you get permanent residency from grant and access to state-specific occupation lists that are often broader than the national CSOL.
Led by Gurjeev Bhalla (MARN 2519028)
Multi-state nomination analysis across all 8 jurisdictions
Who should consider the Subclass 190
Five situations where the 190 beats the 189.
If any of these apply, the 190 is worth a hard look before you wait out another 189 invitation round.
Occupation only on state list
Your occupation is not on the CSOL but is on a state list. The 190 is the only skilled pathway open to you.
State connection already
You have a connection to a particular state through work, family, or study. States prefer applicants with genuine connections.
Comfortable with 2-year commitment
You are willing to live and work in a specific state for two years. The moral commitment is real, not a formality.
Want PR faster
You want a permanent visa faster than waiting years for a competitive 189 invitation that may never come.
How Subclass 190 nomination works
Each state runs its own program.
You cannot apply to "Australia" for a 190. You apply to a specific state or territory. Matching the applicant to the right state is strategic work.
State-specific lists and criteria
Every state has its own occupation list, its own criteria, and its own application process. States often require more than just the right occupation, including working or living in the state, a relative there, or a state job offer.
Two-stage nomination
First, submit an EOI in SkillSelect and a nomination application to the state. Second, nomination triggers a formal invitation from the Department, and you lodge the 190 visa.
The 5-point bonus
Nomination gives you 5 extra points. For applicants sitting at 70 to 80 points, this is often the difference between a competitive score and an invitation.
State-by-state snapshot
How each state tends to operate.
Criteria change frequently. We track current criteria for every state and territory. Here is the general picture of how each one tends to behave.
NSW & VictoriaLarge, diverse economies. Broad lists but competitive because of volume. Often favour applicants with state work experience or qualifications. Specific stream requirements common.
Queensland & South AustraliaQueensland focuses on healthcare, engineering, and regional needs, with both 190 and 491 streams. South Australia is sometimes more accessible than eastern states for similar occupations.
Western AustraliaStrong focus on trades, mining, and engineering. Healthcare is also a priority. Industry-specific approach.
TasmaniaHistorically one of the most accessible states for 190 nomination. Strong pathway for applicants with Tasmanian study or work history.
NT & ACTNT has a small program with specific regional focus and strong DAMA pathways alongside the 190. ACT uses a matrix-based system focused on applicants with ACT connections.
The 190 is one of the most underused pathways in skilled migration.
Many applicants focus only on the 189 and wait years for invitations that may never come, while their profile would get a 190 nomination in a different state within months. Multi-state strategic analysis is often the single most impactful piece of advice a migration agent can give.
The moral commitment
Not a legal obligation. But it matters.
Subclass 190 nominations come with a moral commitment to live and work in the nominating state for two years. It is not a visa condition that can be legally enforced. But the state takes it seriously.
Not legally enforced
The commitment is not a visa condition like 8503 or 8107. It cannot be legally enforced against you. The visa itself is permanent from grant.
But it affects future applications
If you accept nomination and move away immediately, the state may flag you on future applications. It can affect nomination applications from family members.
Genuine reasons are accepted
Life happens. Jobs end, family situations change. If you have to move before two years, be honest with the state and document why. States generally accept genuine reasons.
Common 190 questions
The questions we hear most.
For a specific assessment of which state is most likely to nominate you, book a consultation.
Can I switch states after being nominated?
The nomination is for a specific state. Before the visa is granted, you cannot switch. After the visa is granted, moving to another state breaks your moral commitment but does not invalidate the visa. However, this can affect future migration applications and is not recommended without a genuine reason.
Do I need a job offer for the Subclass 190?
Not always. Many states offer nomination without a job offer, though a job offer may improve your chances or give you access to specific streams. NSW and Victoria, for example, have both open and job-offer-required streams.
How long does state nomination take?
It varies by state and occupation. Some states have ongoing nomination rounds. Others open and close windows. Timing can be anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 months or more.
What if I am nominated by one state but want to live in another?
You should live and work in the nominating state for the two-year commitment period. If you intend to live elsewhere from the start, apply for nomination from that other state instead.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.