Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - New South Wales

Overview

The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by the New South Wales government. It is a points-tested visa that allows you to live and work in Australia indefinitely. By receiving a nomination from NSW, you gain 5 points toward your total score in the SkillSelect system.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be under 45 years of age, have a positive skills assessment for an occupation on the relevant skilled list, and achieve at least 65 points on the points test. You must also be invited to apply by the NSW government, which selects candidates based on state-specific skill shortages and labor market needs.

Application steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Skills Assessment

   Obtain a formal skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.

2. 2

   Step 2: English Test

   Complete an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS, PTE) to meet the minimum proficiency requirements.

3. 3

   Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)

   Submit an EOI via the Australian Government's SkillSelect system, indicating your interest in the 190 visa and NSW nomination.

4. 4

   Step 4: State Nomination

   Apply for NSW state nomination if required by the current program settings and receive an invitation.

5. 5

   Step 5: Visa Application

   Once invited by the Department of Home Affairs, lodge your complete visa application within 60 days.

Required documents

• Valid passport
• Positive skills assessment
• English language test results
• Evidence of points claims (e.g., employment references, degree certificates)
• Health and character clearances

PR, family, language & arrival

Common pitfalls

• Failing to keep EOI information updated
• Inaccurate points claims
• Letting skills assessments expire before invitation
• Not checking the specific NSW occupation list requirements