Overview
The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is a permanent residency pathway for skilled workers. To apply, you must first be nominated by the ACT government. The ACT uses the 'Canberra Matrix' to rank candidates based on their economic contribution and commitment to the territory, rather than just federal points.
Who qualifies
To be eligible, you must meet federal requirements (including a valid skills assessment and English test) and ACT-specific criteria. Canberra residents must generally show continuous employment and residence in the ACT. Overseas applicants must have an occupation on the ACT Critical Skills List. All applicants must commit to living and working in Canberra for at least two years after visa grant.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet both Department of Home Affairs requirements and ACT nomination criteria.
- 2
Step 2: Submit SkillSelect EOI
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in the federal SkillSelect system.
- 3
Step 3: Complete Canberra Matrix
Submit your Canberra Matrix via the ACT Migration Application Portal to express interest in ACT nomination.
- 4
Step 4: Receive Invitation
If your Matrix score is high enough, you will be invited to apply for ACT nomination.
- 5
Step 5: Apply for Nomination
Submit your formal ACT nomination application and pay the service fee.
- 6
Step 6: Visa Application
Once nominated, you will receive an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs to lodge your visa application.
Required documents
- Valid skills assessment
- English language test results
- Proof of ACT residence (for residents)
- Employment contracts and payslips
- Educational qualification certificates
- Identity documents (passport)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
This is a permanent residency visa; it provides a direct pathway to living in Australia indefinitely and potential eligibility for Australian citizenship.
Family options
Spouse and dependent children can be included in the visa application.
Language notes
Applicants must meet the English language requirements specified by the Department of Home Affairs for their nominated occupation.
After arrival
You are expected to live and work in the ACT for at least two years from the date of your arrival or visa grant.
Common pitfalls
- Claiming points in the Canberra Matrix that cannot be substantiated with evidence.
- Failing to maintain eligibility criteria between Matrix submission and visa grant.
- Confusing federal SkillSelect points with Canberra Matrix points.
- Not paying the ACT service fee within the required timeframe.
FAQs about Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory
Who is the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory for?+
Skilled professionals, including those currently residing in Canberra or overseas, who have an occupation on the ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List and meet the territory's specific economic contribution criteria.
What are the eligibility requirements for Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory?+
To be eligible, you must meet federal requirements (including a valid skills assessment and English test) and ACT-specific criteria. Canberra residents must generally show continuous employment and residence in the ACT. Overseas applicants must have an occupation on the ACT Critical Skills List. All applicants must commit to living and working in Canberra for at least two years after visa grant.
How much does the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory cost?+
Typical fees listed for Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory: ACT Nomination Service Fee: AUD $357.50 (incl. GST); Federal Visa Application Charge: From AUD $6,140 (subject to change).. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: ACT nomination typically processes within weeks; federal visa processing varies (often 9–18 months)..
How long can I stay on the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory?+
Permanent residency
Can I work on the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory?+
Full work and study rights in Australia.
Does Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory lead to permanent residence in Australia?+
This is a permanent residency visa; it provides a direct pathway to living in Australia indefinitely and potential eligibility for Australian citizenship.
What are common mistakes with Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - Australian Capital Territory?+
Claiming points in the Canberra Matrix that cannot be substantiated with evidence. Failing to maintain eligibility criteria between Matrix submission and visa grant. Confusing federal SkillSelect points with Canberra Matrix points.