A Guide to Australian 190 Visas

Skilled Workers State Sponsorship

The 190 visa is one of the premier options available for skilled workers looking to emigrate to Australia through state sponsorship. This visa grants permanent residency and requires the holder to live and work within the sponsoring state for two years. After fulfilling this initial commitment, the individual is free to live and work anywhere in Australia, even though the visa is state-nominated.

The 190 visa is an excellent choice for those who have 60 points or more on the points-based assessment and whose skills are listed on the relevant skills lists.

Eligibility and Skills Lists

To be eligible for the 190 visa, applicants must have their occupation listed on one of the following:

Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL): This list replaced the previous ‘Skilled Occupation List’ (SOL) and is available in Schedule 1 of the relevant regulations.

Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL): This list replaced the previous ‘Consolidated Sponsored Occupation List’ (CSOL).

Each state in Australia has a limited number of 190 visas allocated annually by the federal government. Consequently, states are highly selective in offering invitations to apply for this visa. The selection process is based on a range of criteria and tests set by the Australian Government, including skills and experience, family history, character, and health. While each case is assessed on its individual merits, presenting a strong case to the state government is crucial for success.

Applying for State Sponsorship

When applying for the 190 visa, it is important to understand that Australian states operate their immigration policies similarly to how successful companies manage recruitment. They seek the best candidates from a global pool of talent. In return, they offer one of the highest standards of living in the world, attracting many applicants.

In some states, having a job offer is a prerequisite for receiving an invitation to immigrate. This requirement underscores the competitive nature of the 190 visa process and the importance of securing employment as part of your application strategy.

State-specific Requirements

Different states have their own specific requirements and conditions for the 190 visa. Here’s an overview of what some states expect:

New South Wales (NSW): NSW often prioritizes applicants with occupations on their critical skills list and may require evidence of job offers.

Northern Territory (NT): Applicants may need to demonstrate strong employability in the NT and commit to residing in the region for a specified period.

South Australia (SA): This state has a robust selection process, often favouring applicants who can fill regional skill shortages.

Queensland (QLD): Applicants must typically have an occupation in demand and a job offer in a regional area.

Western Australia (WA): WA requires applicants to meet specific skill requirements and may prefer those who have job offers in regional areas.

Victoria: Victoria looks for skilled workers in key sectors such as health, education, and technology, often requiring a job offer in these fields.