Skilled Nominated Visa
(Subclass 190)

The general expectation is that you will reside in the nominating state for at least two years after the visa is granted. This is a condition of accepting state nomination.

You are generally expected to work — or genuinely seek work — in the nominating state during the commitment period. Working remotely for an employer in another state may or may not satisfy this depending on the circumstances.

The Department of Home Affairs may consider your compliance with the state commitment when assessing future applications — for example, a Resident Return Visa or citizenship application. Non-compliance can be a negative factor.

In some circumstances — such as family hardship, domestic violence, or genuine inability to find suitable work — it may be possible to argue that relocation was necessary. This is assessed case by case and is not automatic.

If your points score sits just below the typical 189 invitation cutoff, the 5-point nomination bonus from state nomination may be enough to receive an invitation. The 190 is commonly used by applicants who have a competitive but not top-tier score.

If you have been living, working, or studying in a particular state, or have family there, state nomination may be a natural fit. Many states prioritise applicants with existing ties when assessing nomination applications.

State occupation demand differs from the national MLTSSL. A state experiencing shortages in your occupation may be actively seeking nominations in your field — even if federal demand is lower. Check each state's current occupation lists.

Unlike the 491, the 190 grants permanent residence from the date of the visa grant — there is no provisional stage and no separate application for PR. This suits applicants who prefer the certainty of permanent status immediately.