The occupations eligible for a Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) include healthcare professionals, engineers, IT specialists, teachers, tradespeople, accountants, and other skilled workers listed on Australia’s state and territory occupation lists. Eligibility depends on your occupation, skills assessment, age, English proficiency, and state nomination requirements.
Australia continues to face skill shortages across multiple industries, creating opportunities for overseas professionals seeking permanent residency. The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is one of the most popular pathways because it offers permanent residency and allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia after receiving state or territory nomination.
However, one of the first questions applicants ask is: Which occupations are eligible for the Subclass 190 visa?
The answer depends on Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists and the specific requirements of each state or territory.
What Is the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)?
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who receive nomination from an Australian state or territory government.
With this visa, you can:
- Live and work permanently in Australia
- Include eligible family members
- Access Australia’s healthcare system
- Study in Australia
- Apply for Australian citizenship if eligible
The visa is designed to address labour shortages in occupations that Australia currently needs.
Which Occupations Are Eligible for a Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)?
Eligible occupations are occupations listed on the relevant state or territory skilled occupation lists and approved by the Australian Government.
Some of the most common occupations include:
Healthcare Occupations
- Registered Nurse
- General Practitioner
- Physiotherapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Medical Laboratory Scientist
Healthcare remains one of Australia’s highest-demand sectors due to an ageing population and increasing healthcare needs.
Information Technology Occupations
- Software Engineer
- ICT Business Analyst
- Systems Analyst
- Developer Programmer
- Cyber Security Specialist
The Australian technology industry continues to grow, increasing demand for skilled IT professionals.
Engineering Occupations
- Civil Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Mining Engineer
Large infrastructure and construction projects have increased opportunities for engineering professionals.
Education Occupations
- Early Childhood Teacher
- Secondary School Teacher
- Special Education Teacher
Qualified teachers are regularly invited by multiple Australian states.
Trade Occupations
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Carpenter
- Motor Mechanic
- Welder
Trades continue to play an important role in Australia’s workforce and migration programs.
How Can You Check If Your Occupation Is Eligible?
The easiest way is to follow a step-by-step approach:
Step 1: Identify Your Occupation
Choose the occupation that best matches your qualifications and work experience.
Step 2: Obtain a Skills Assessment
You must receive a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Step 3: Review State Occupation Lists
Each Australian state has its own occupation list and nomination criteria.
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Your EOI is submitted through SkillSelect and includes your points score and occupation details.
Step 5: Receive State Nomination
If selected, the state issues a nomination, allowing you to apply for the visa.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for the Subclass 190 Visa?
In addition to having an eligible occupation, applicants generally need to meet these requirements:
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation
- Obtain a positive skills assessment
- Meet English language requirements
- Score at least 65 points on the migration points test
- Receive nomination from an Australian state or territory
- Meet health and character requirements
Meeting the minimum points requirement does not guarantee an invitation, as competition varies by occupation and state.
Why Does the Occupation List Change?
Australia regularly updates occupation lists to match current labour market needs.
Factors influencing these changes include:
- Workforce shortages
- Population growth
- Healthcare demands
- Infrastructure projects
- Economic priorities
- Regional workforce requirements
For example, healthcare and technology occupations have consistently remained among the most in-demand professions over recent years.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)?
The visa offers several long-term advantages:
- Permanent residency from the date of visa grant
- Ability to sponsor eligible family members
- Access to Medicare
- Freedom to work and study in Australia
- Pathway to Australian citizenship
- Opportunities across various Australian states and territories
For many professionals, the Subclass 190 visa provides a stable and long-term migration pathway.
Should You Use a 190 Visa Agent?
Applying for a Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) involves occupation selection, skills assessments, points calculations, and state nomination requirements.
A qualified 190 visa agent blacktown can assist with:
- Occupation eligibility checks
- Skills assessment guidance
- Points calculation
- State nomination strategies
- Visa application preparation
Professional guidance can help applicants avoid errors and understand the latest migration requirements.
FAQs
What occupations are most commonly invited under the Subclass 190 visa?
Healthcare professionals, nurses, software engineers, teachers, engineers, electricians, and accountants are among the occupations frequently invited by Australian states.
Can occupation lists differ between Australian states?
Yes. Each state and territory maintains its own occupation list and nomination requirements, which may vary throughout the year.
Is a skills assessment mandatory for the Subclass 190 visa?
Yes. Applicants generally need a positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority before receiving an invitation.
Can I apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 190 visa?
Yes. The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent residency visa that allows eligible skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia.
Conclusion
The occupations eligible for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) cover a wide range of professions, including healthcare, engineering, information technology, education, and skilled trades. Since occupation lists and state requirements can change, it is important to verify your eligibility carefully and prepare a strong application.
If you are planning to apply, consulting an experienced 190 visa agent blacktown can help you understand occupation requirements, state nomination options, and the overall migration process with greater confidence.

