The Australia 190 Skilled Nominated (Permanent) Visa remains one of the most popular pathways for skilled workers who want to settle permanently in the country. In 2025, significant updates have been introduced to make the visa process more transparent and responsive to the nation’s labour market needs. This visa allows skilled migrants to live and work in Australia permanently, provided they are nominated by a state or territory government.
Why the 190 Visa Is Important
Australia continues to face shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, engineering, education, IT, and construction. The 190 PR Visa helps bridge these gaps by bringing in skilled professionals who are committed to contributing to Australia’s economy while also enjoying the benefits of permanent residency.
Key Updates to the 190 PR Visa in 2025
The latest changes aim to align the program more closely with state-specific requirements and national skill shortages. Key highlights include:
- Priority processing for applicants in critical sectors such as aged care, health, and renewable energy.
- Expanded occupation lists for certain states and territories.
- Revised English language benchmarks for smoother entry.
- More places allocated in the 2025 migration program to meet labour demand.
Updated Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the 190 PR Visa in 2025, applicants must still meet general requirements such as submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), being nominated by a state or territory, and scoring at least 65 points on the immigration points test. However, new criteria focus more on regional needs and verified work experience.
| Eligibility Factor | Previous Rules | 2025 Updates |
|---|---|---|
| Points Requirement | Minimum 65 points | Minimum 65, but priority given to 80+ points holders |
| Occupation List | State-specific shortage list | Expanded to include renewable energy & digital roles |
| English Language Requirement | Competent English | Higher score required for healthcare & teaching |
| Work Experience | Minimum 1–3 years depending on role | Greater weight for experience in regional Australia |
| Processing Priority | Standard order | Priority for critical sectors & regional applicants |
Benefits of the 190 PR Visa in 2025
With these updates, successful applicants gain the benefits of:
- Permanent residency in Australia.
- Access to healthcare (Medicare) and education benefits.
- The right to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia.
- A pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Application Process Moving Forward
The process in 2025 follows the same structure but with stricter evaluation of state nomination needs. Applicants must:
- Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
- Receive a nomination from a state or territory.
- Submit their visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.
- Provide updated documents such as English test results, skills assessment, and employment evidence.
What This Means for Aspirants
For skilled migrants, the 2025 update provides both opportunities and challenges. While competition may increase due to stricter requirements, those working in priority sectors or regional areas will find a faster and more secure pathway to permanent residency.