Find a 190 Visa (Skilled Nominated) Agent

Why the 190 Is Often the Smarter Move

The 190 adds 5 points to your score through state nomination and grants the same permanent residency as the 189. For applicants who are competitive but not quite at the 189 invitation threshold, the 190 can be the pathway that actually moves. Many applicants fixate on the 189 because it sounds more independent, but the 190 often delivers the same outcome — permanent residency — on a faster timeline. An agent helps you assess whether the 190 is strategically stronger than waiting for a 189 that may not come.

State-by-State Nomination Differences

Each state and territory runs its own skilled nomination program with different priority occupation lists, minimum requirements, and assessment processes. Some states prioritise applicants already living and working in the state. Others actively recruit certain occupations nationally. Some have specific English language requirements above the visa minimum. Some have minimum work experience thresholds. Programs open and close throughout the year, sometimes with limited quotas that fill quickly. An agent who works across multiple jurisdictions knows which states are currently active for your occupation, what their specific requirements are, and how to present the strongest possible nomination application.

The Nomination Application Is Separate from the Visa

State nomination is not automatic — it is a separate application assessed by the state government. You must apply to the state, meet their criteria, and be selected before you receive an invitation to apply for the 190 visa itself. Some states have transparent criteria and predictable timelines. Others are more opaque. An agent experienced with 190 nominations knows the practical reality of each state's program, not just the published criteria.

Living Obligations After Grant

While the 190 grants permanent residency, nomination comes with a generally expected commitment to live in the nominating state for at least two years. This is not always legally enforced as a visa condition, but state governments take it seriously and may consider compliance history when assessing future nominations from the same applicant or their family members. Your agent helps you understand what this commitment means in practice.

Costs and Processing

The 190 visa application charge is approximately $4,640 for the primary applicant. State nomination application fees vary by state — some charge nothing, others charge $300 to $500. Total processing including nomination and visa grant typically takes 6 to 15 months. Agent fees range from $2,000 to $5,000.

Get Matched with 190 Visa Specialists

Tell Migratio your occupation, points score, and which states you are considering (or let the agents advise). You will be matched with 3 agents who understand the state nomination landscape and can identify your strongest option.

Which state should I apply to?

It depends on your occupation, points, current location, and whether a state is actively nominating for your category. Your agent identifies the strongest option.

Is the 190 permanent?

Yes. The 190 grants permanent residency from the date of grant, same as the 189.

Do I have to live in the nominating state?

There is a generally expected commitment to live in the state for approximately two years. Your agent explains what this means practically.

Can I apply to multiple states?

Policies vary. Some states allow you to hold nominations from only one state at a time. Your agent advises on the best strategy.

Is the 190 easier than the 189?

It can be more achievable because the additional 5 nomination points and state-specific criteria may create opportunities that the 189's national competition does not.