Western Australia has long been a magnet for skilled professionals looking for real career opportunities, a relaxed lifestyle, and a clear pathway to permanent residency. If you’re exploring skilled migration options, the WA 190 visa is one of the most practical and well-structured pathways available. It’s designed for people who don’t just want to move to Australia, but want to settle, work, and build a future in a state that actively needs their skills.
The WA 190 visa, officially known as the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), allows eligible professionals to live and work permanently in Western Australia. Unlike temporary visas that come with uncertainty, this pathway grants permanent residency from the moment it’s approved. That alone makes it an attractive option for skilled workers who want stability rather than short-term arrangements.
Understanding the WA 190 Visa Pathway
At its core, the WA 190 visa is a state-nominated visa. This means Western Australia selects skilled migrants based on current labour shortages across key industries, both in metropolitan Perth and regional areas. When the state nominates you, it signals to the Department of Home Affairs that your skills are genuinely needed.
Once granted, the visa gives you the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in Western Australia. You can also include eligible family members in your application, which is a major advantage for those planning a long-term move. Many applicants choose this pathway because it combines the security of permanent residency with strong employment prospects in sectors where demand remains high.
WA 190 Visa Eligibility Explained
Eligibility for the WA 190 visa is determined by a mix of federal immigration rules and state-specific nomination requirements. First and foremost, your occupation must appear on the Western Australian Skilled Occupation List. This list changes regularly to reflect labour market needs, so timing and preparation matter more than many people realise.
You’ll also need a positive skills assessment for your nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority. Age is another key factor, with applicants required to be under 45 at the time of invitation. English language proficiency is essential as well, usually at least Competent English, although higher scores can significantly improve your chances.
One of the most important requirements is the points test. You must score at least 65 points to be eligible, although meeting the minimum does not guarantee an invitation. Western Australia also requires applicants to submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and then receive a formal state nomination before they can apply for the visa itself. Depending on your occupation and whether you apply through a general or graduate stream, additional conditions may apply.
Because these requirements can shift, many applicants choose to work with a best migration lawyer Sydney professionals trust, particularly when they want clarity on eligibility before investing time and money into the process.
How the Points Test Really Works
The points test is where many applicants either strengthen or weaken their application. While the minimum requirement is 65 points, competitive occupations often require a higher score to stand out. Points are awarded based on several factors, including age, English proficiency, skilled work experience, and educational qualifications.
Applicants aged between 25 and 32 typically receive the highest age-related points. English language results can make a substantial difference, with higher scores unlocking more points and improving overall competitiveness. Work experience, whether gained in Australia or overseas, also adds weight, especially when it closely aligns with your nominated occupation.
Qualifications matter too. Recognised degrees, diplomas, or trade qualifications all contribute points, and completing eligible study in Australia can earn bonus points. Importantly, Western Australia’s state nomination itself adds five points, which often pushes applicants over the threshold. Before lodging an EOI, it’s wise to calculate your score carefully and consider whether there are realistic ways to improve it.
The WA 190 Visa Application Process
The application process for the WA 190 visa follows a structured sequence, and skipping or rushing steps can cause unnecessary delays. It begins with confirming that your occupation is on the current WA Skilled Occupation List. From there, you’ll need to obtain a positive skills assessment, which can take time depending on the assessing authority.
Once that’s in place, you submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect, outlining your qualifications, experience, and points score. If Western Australia selects your EOI, you’ll be invited to apply for state nomination. After nomination approval, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the visa itself through the Department of Home Affairs.
Processing times can vary widely. Factors such as occupation demand, document accuracy, and overall application quality all play a role. This is where working with an experienced migration agent in Australia can make a noticeable difference, particularly for offshore applicants navigating the process from abroad.
Why the WA 190 Visa Appeals to Skilled Migrants
The benefits of the WA 190 visa extend well beyond permanent residency status. From day one, you have full work and study rights, giving you flexibility as your career evolves. You gain access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, which is a significant advantage for individuals and families alike.
Over time, the visa also opens the door to Australian citizenship, provided you meet residency and other legal requirements. For many migrants, this long-term security is just as important as immediate job opportunities. The ability to sponsor eligible family members further adds to the visa’s appeal, allowing families to build a life together rather than living across borders.
Western Australia’s economy continues to grow across industries such as healthcare, construction, engineering, education, and resources. For skilled professionals willing to commit to the state, the WA 190 visa offers both lifestyle and career rewards.
Preparing a Strong WA 190 Application
A successful WA 190 application is rarely accidental. It’s built on careful preparation, accurate documentation, and realistic expectations. Ensuring your skills assessment is current, your English test results are valid, and your employment evidence is well-documented can prevent common setbacks.
It’s also essential to stay updated on changes to Western Australia’s nomination criteria and occupation lists. These updates can directly affect your eligibility or timing. Many applicants underestimate how small errors or inconsistencies can delay processing or result in refusal, which is why professional advice is often a worthwhile investment rather than an added expense.
Building Your Future in Western Australia
The WA 190 visa is more than just an immigration pathway. For many skilled migrants, it’s the foundation of a new chapter built on opportunity, security, and long-term growth. Western Australia offers a unique balance of career prospects and quality of life, making it an appealing destination for professionals ready to contribute their skills.
By understanding how eligibility works, how the points test is assessed, and how the nomination process unfolds, you place yourself in a far stronger position. With the right preparation and guidance, the WA 190 visa can be the key that unlocks your future in Australia’s west.
