Australia is a land of opportunity, offering a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and a thriving job market. If you’re considering moving to Australia, the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), commonly referred to as the 190 visa, is an excellent option for skilled professionals. This guide will help beginners understand the ins and outs of the 190 visa, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process.
What is the 190 Visa?
The Subclass 190 visa is a points-tested permanent residence visa designed for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government. With this visa, you can live and work in Australia indefinitely. It’s particularly appealing because it provides permanent residency status, which includes access to Medicare, education, and other government services.
Key Benefits of the 190 Visa
- Permanent Residency
The 190 visa grants you permanent residency in Australia, offering stability and access to numerous rights and privileges. - Pathway to Citizenship
After holding permanent residency for a specific period and meeting other requirements, you may become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship. - State Sponsorship
State nomination often provides additional points, increasing your chances of meeting the points requirement for the visa. - Access to Medicare
As a permanent resident, you can access Australia’s public healthcare system. - Family Inclusion
You can include eligible family members in your application, ensuring they too can enjoy the benefits of permanent residency. - Flexibility to Work and Study
The visa allows you to work or study anywhere in the sponsoring state or territory.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 190 visa, you must meet specific requirements:
- Nomination by a State or Territory: You must receive an official nomination from an Australian state or territory government. Each state has its list of occupations in demand, which determines eligibility.
- Skilled Occupation List: Your occupation must be listed on the relevant Skilled Occupation List for the state or territory you’re applying to.
- Skills Assessment: You must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation. This confirms that your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards.
- Points Test: A minimum score of 65 points is required on the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test. Points are awarded for factors like age, English language proficiency, work experience, and education.
- Age Limit: You must be under 45 years of age when you receive your invitation to apply.
- English Language Proficiency: A minimum level of English proficiency, typically evidenced by scores from tests such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL, is required.
- Health and Character Requirements: All applicants must meet specific health and character requirements, including undergoing medical examinations and providing police clearances.
Application Process
The process for applying for the 190 visa involves several stages:
- Skills Assessment: The first step is to obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority. This assessment verifies that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. In your EOI, provide details of your skills, qualifications, and points score.
- State Nomination: Apply for nomination from your chosen state or territory. Ensure your occupation is on the state’s list and that you meet their additional criteria, such as residing in the state or having a job offer.
- Invitation to Apply: If your EOI is successful, you will receive an invitation to apply for the 190 visa. Invitations are issued based on your points score and other factors like state-specific demand.
- Visa Application: After receiving the invitation, you have 60 days to submit your visa application online. Include all necessary documents, such as identity proof, skills assessment, and health certificates.
- Visa Grant: If your application is approved, you will receive the 190 visa, granting you permanent residency in Australia.
One needs to research the specific requirements of the state one is interested in before proceeding.