The Australian Visa Subclass 190, also known as the Skilled Nominated Visa, is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government. It allows individuals to live and work in Australia permanently. This visa is a popular pathway for skilled workers who wish to migrate to Australia and have the qualifications and skills that are needed by the Australian economy.
Key Features of Subclass 190 Visa
- Permanent Residency: Provides permanent residency status to the visa holder and eligible family members included in the application.
- Nomination by a State or Territory: Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.
- Point-Based System: Applicants must score sufficiently in the points test, which assesses factors like age, English language ability, skilled work experience, and educational qualifications.
- Live and Work in Australia: Allows visa holders to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, with access to public healthcare (Medicare) and the Australian education system.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Offers a pathway to Australian citizenship, subject to meeting residency requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nomination: Before applying for the visa, applicants must be nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency.
- Occupation: Applicants must have an occupation on the relevant list of skilled occupations that matches their skills and qualifications.
- Skills Assessment: Must have a suitable skills assessment for the occupation.
- Points Test: Must score at least 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs points test, though higher points may be required to receive an invitation to apply.
- Age: Must be under 45 years of age when the invitation to apply is issued.
- English Language: Must have competent English language proficiency.
- Health and Character: Must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government.
Application Process
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Through SkillSelect, indicating your interest in being nominated by a state or territory government.
- State or Territory Nomination: Receive a nomination from an Australian state or territory government.
- Invitation to Apply: After receiving a nomination, you might be invited to apply for the visa.
- Visa Application: Submit a complete visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation, including all required documents and information.
Considerations
- Commitment to a State or Territory: While this visa allows for living and working anywhere in Australia, visa holders are expected to live for at least two years in the state or territory that nominated them.
- Processing Times: Can vary based on the number of applications received and the completeness of the application.
- Costs: Involves costs for the visa application, health checks, police certificates, and other certificates or tests required.
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) offers skilled workers a valuable opportunity for permanent residency in Australia, encouraging the contribution of their skills to the Australian community and economy.
