Queensland 190 Visa Requirements 2025–2026: Skilled Migration Nomination Guide

Introduction

Queensland remains one of Australia’s most attractive destinations for skilled migrants, offering strong employment prospects, world-class education, and an enviable lifestyle. Each year, the Queensland Government participates in the Australian Skilled Migration Program, nominating skilled workers for visas that provide permanent residency pathways.

For the 2025–2026 program year, the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) continues to play a key role in meeting the state’s workforce needs. However, Queensland has introduced specific eligibility requirements that applicants must meet to secure state nomination.

In this article, we break down the Queensland 190 visa requirements for 2025–2026, covering eligibility criteria, work experience rules, occupation lists, and conditions that apply once you receive nomination.

What is the Queensland 190 Visa?

The Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) is a points-tested permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory government.

Key features:

Provides permanent residency in Australia.

Requires nomination by Queensland Government.

You must live and work in Queensland for two years after your visa grant.

Offers a pathway for skilled professionals to build their careers in Australia.

General Queensland 190 Visa Nomination Requirements

To be eligible for a Queensland 190 visa nomination in 2025–2026, applicants must meet both Department of Home Affairs (DHA) requirements and Queensland-specific criteria.

Department of Home Affairs (DHA) Criteria

Be under 45 years of age when invited.
Have a valid skills assessment in an eligible occupation.
Meet the minimum points test (65 points or more).
Achieve competent English or higher (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent).
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.

Queensland-Specific Requirements

• Must have an occupation listed on the Queensland Skilled Occupation List (QSOL).
• Provide evidence of minimum work experience in your nominated occupation.
• Commit to living and working in Queensland for at least two years.
• Additional criteria apply depending on whether you are onshore or offshore.

Queensland 190 Visa Requirements 2025–2026

Queensland sets its own nomination rules to ensure skilled migrants meet the labour market needs of the state.

1. Residency Commitment

Applicants must commit to living and working in Queensland for two years after visa grant.

This condition ensures that Queensland benefits from the skills of nominated migrants.

2. Occupation List Requirements

Your nominated occupation must be on the Queensland Skilled Occupation List (QSOL) for the 2025–2026 year.

Occupations are selected based on state labour shortages.

Each occupation may have different experience or English language requirements.

3. Work Experience Requirement

At least five years of post-qualification work experience in your nominated occupation is required in most cases.

Experience must be relevant and verifiable.

Applicants may need to demonstrate their employment history with contracts, payslips, and references.

4. Onshore Applicants

If you are currently in Queensland:

You must already be living and working in your nominated occupation.

Employment must be full-time (at least 35 hours per week).

Casual or part-time work may not meet the requirements.

5. Offshore Applicants

If you are applying from overseas:

You must demonstrate the five years of work experience requirement.

Your occupation must be listed as offshore-eligible on the QSOL.

Some occupations are open only to offshore candidates, while others are prioritised for onshore.

6. English Language Proficiency

Minimum requirement: Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent).

Some occupations require Proficient or Superior English to ensure competitiveness in the labour market.

7. Points Score

You must have a minimum of 65 points under the DHA points test.

Higher points increase your chances of selection as competition for Queensland nomination is strong.

Pathways to Queensland 190 Nomination

Queensland offers different nomination streams to reflect applicant backgrounds.

A. Skilled Workers Living in Queensland

• Must have an eligible occupation on the QSOL.
• Must be employed full-time in Queensland in the nominated occupation.
• Require minimum five years’ experience.
  

B. Skilled Workers Living Offshore

• Can apply if their occupation is listed on the QSOL as offshore-eligible.
• Must provide strong evidence of work experience.
• Offshore applicants face higher competition due to preference for onshore candidates.

C. International Graduates in Queensland (190 not priority, more common for 491)

• While Queensland has separate graduate pathways, the subclass 190 focuses mainly on experienced workers.
• Graduates may be directed to the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) instead.
  

Why Choose Queensland for Skilled Migration?

Strong Economy: Queensland’s growing industries include health, education, construction, engineering, IT, and agriculture.

Lifestyle: Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and regional areas offer excellent work-life balance.

Migration-Friendly Policies: Queensland continues to support skilled migrants to meet its workforce needs.

Permanent Residency Pathway: The 190 visa provides stability for families and individuals planning to settle long term.

Application Process for Queensland 190 Visa

1. Check Occupation List – confirm eligibility on the QSOL.
2. Obtain Skills Assessment – ensure your skills are recognised by the relevant authority.
3. Meet English Requirement – obtain valid test results.
4. Calculate Points – ensure at least 65 points.
5. Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) – via SkillSelect.
6. Apply for State Nomination – if invited by Queensland.
7. Lodge Visa Application – through the DHA once nominated.

Key Takeaways

The Queensland 190 visa requirements for 2025–2026 include five years’ work experience, occupation eligibility, and a two-year residency commitment.

Both onshore and offshore candidates can apply, but onshore workers are often prioritised.

English proficiency and competitive points are essential.

The program is highly competitive, making professional guidance crucial.

Conclusion

The Queensland Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) offers an excellent pathway to permanent residency for skilled professionals in 2025–2026. However, with strict requirements and competitive selection, it is vital to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and aligned with Queensland’s workforce needs.

If you are serious about migrating to Queensland, working with a MARA-registered migration agent can greatly improve your chances of success.

Remember:

This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent