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Subclass 190 State Nominated: which state to apply to first

Subclass 190 - the Skilled Nominated permanent visa - requires state or territory government nomination in addition to the points-tested eligibility. Each state has its own occupation list, its own nomination criteria, and its own timing. Strategic selection of state matters as much as the points profile.

The basic 190 framework

  • 190 gives you 5 additional points over 189 (state nomination bonus)
  • You must commit to living and working in the nominating state for at least 2 years
  • Each state runs its own nomination program with specific eligibility
  • Once nominated, you apply for the federal visa like any other skilled visa

2026 state-by-state snapshot

NSW: Largest state program. Focus on healthcare, education, engineering. Stream 1 (high points, Australia experience), Stream 2 (specific occupations, lower threshold).

Victoria: Strong on technology, engineering, healthcare. Emphasis on regional Victoria for 190; metro quotas tighter.

Queensland: Focus on healthcare, trades, teaching. Significant regional nomination through companion 491 program.

South Australia: Historically easier state for 190, with broader occupation list and lower effective thresholds. Genuine commitment to SA residency strictly enforced.

Western Australia: Returned to active 190 program post-2022. Focus on mining services, healthcare, construction trades. State-by-state thresholds vary.

Tasmania: Smaller program but generous on onshore Tasmanian study graduates. Strong pathway from Tasmanian uni.

ACT: Points-based “Matrix” system. Excellent pathway for applicants willing to live in Canberra.

NT: Smaller program; specific focus on skilled workers willing to live and work long-term in the Territory.

Which state to apply to first?

Factors to consider:

  • Occupation: check each state’s current 190 occupation list. They differ.
  • Points: lower points often viable in SA, TAS, NT; higher points needed in NSW, VIC, QLD.
  • Australia experience: most states require or prefer local (state) work experience.
  • Commitment: you will need to genuinely live and work in the state for 2+ years.

A common 2026 pattern: onshore applicant in Melbourne obtains TAS 190 through Tasmanian study, relocates to Hobart for the commitment period, then PR granted.

The 491 alternative

Subclass 491 is a regional version of state nomination:

  • Provisional visa (5 years) leading to 191 PR
  • Regional definition varies by state but generally excludes capital cities (except in some states where greater metropolitan Adelaide and Perth count as regional)
  • Additional 15 points (vs 5 for 190)
  • More accessible points threshold

Many applicants choose 491 as a stepping stone to PR, rather than 190, because of the higher point value and more open nomination criteria.

Timing

From EOI lodgement to visa grant on 190:

  • State invitation: 3-12 months (depends on state, occupation)
  • Federal visa application processing: 6-12 months after invitation
  • Total: 9-24 months typical

The 190 timeline is typically longer than 189 because of the extra state step.

The commitment

“Live and work in the nominating state for at least 2 years” is a genuine commitment. States verify this through:

  • Address declarations
  • Employment evidence
  • Tax returns lodged with state address

Breaking the commitment (moving interstate within 2 years of 190 grant) doesn’t invalidate the PR (PR is permanent once granted), but it damages the relationship between state nomination programs and applicants. Future immigration applications by family members can be affected.

For lending once granted

190 PR is equivalent to 189 PR for lending purposes:

  • Full 95% LVR access
  • FHG eligibility
  • All major lenders
  • All standard products

During the provisional period (for 491), lending is more restricted: most lenders treat 491 holders as non-resident equivalent with 80% LVR cap.

Strategic sequencing

If you have 80-85 points and a common occupation:

  • Lodge 189 EOI as primary
  • Lodge 190 EOI for NSW, VIC, QLD as parallel
  • Lodge 491 EOI for any regional program fitting your profile
  • Take the first invitation that comes

If you have 65-75 points:

  • 189 unlikely to invite
  • Focus on 190 from smaller states (SA, TAS, WA) or 491 regional programs
  • Consider which state you can genuinely commit to for 2+ years

If you have an Australian qualification from a regional university:

  • Strong pathway via that state’s 190 or 491 program
  • Examples: TAS graduates via Tas 190; regional NSW/VIC graduates via 491

The 2026 state program reviews will update each state’s allocation and occupation priority lists. Check specific state websites monthly during EOI submission period.