Update (October 2026)
The figures in this post date from 2020 and 2021, during COVID-19. Processing times, on-hand numbers and state programs have all changed since then. For current information see our 190 visa guide, skilled visa processing times and “What this means in 2026” below.
The subclass 190 visa is an alternative pathway to permanent residence for those who have less points with occupations not being in the list of visa subclass 189. It requires nomination from the states/ territories government to apply for the visa. Therefore, looking at the historical data of visas granted for subclass 190 can be helpful in understanding the possibilities of being invited with candidates’ current situation. This may also help in making the decision to study the courses and work in the occupations that are in high demand in a particular state/ territory.
We have done the hard work for you by consolidating all data relating to this matter released by DHA.
Visa Applications on-hand for subclass 190 in each state/ territory as at 28/02/2021
Many people who already applied for subclass 190 often wonder when their visa is granted, especially those who are offshore. The published processing time for this visa is from 13 to 16 months. Some applicants, particularly with critical skills, are often granted the visa quicker than others.
Let’s have a look at the number of visa applications on-hand of each states to estimate when you are likely to get your visa if you already lodged.
| State/ Territory | Applications on-hand for onshore applicants | Applications on-hand for offshore applicants |
| Queensland | 653 | 683 |
| Victoria | 1,049 | 1,315 |
| New South Wales | 1,738 | 1,787 |
| South Australia | 751 | 587 |
| Northern Territory | 190 | |
| Western Australia | Not released | Not released |
| ACT | Not Released | Not Released |
Total on-hand applications for subclass 190 for over 6 months:
| Onshore | 5,284 |
| Offshore | 5,300 |
| Total | 10,584 |
As can be seen in the tables above, the on-hand applications (over 6 months) for visa subclass 190 was 10,584 as of 28/2/2021. Therefore, if you lodged your visa some time end of last year, it is likely that you will have to wait for another 8 to 12 months to be contacted by the Case Officer, unless your occupation is in Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List.
Visa Applications granted for subclass 190 between 01/07/2020 and 31/12/2020
| Onshore | 07/2020 | 08/2020 | 09/2020 | 10/2020 | 11/2020 | 12/2020 |
| Primary Applicant | 349 | 152 | 207 | 273 | 642 | 586 |
| Secondary Applicant | 210 | 103 | 106 | 156 | 285 | 315 |
| Total | 559 | 255 | 313 | 429 | 927 | 901 |
| Offshore | 07/2020 | 08/2020 | 09/2020 | 10/2020 | 11/2020 | 12/2020 |
| Primary Applicant | 8 | <5 | 53 | 37 | 57 | 25 |
| Secondary Applicant | 40 | 18 | 186 | 135 | 163 | 114 |
| Total | 48 | 20 | 239 | 172 | 210 | 139 |
The number of visa grants onshore is always significantly greater than that of offshore. Onshore applicants obviously have more advantage over offshore candidates. This encourages people to study and work in Australia before lodging their visas.
Some occupations
Besides the popular occupations that receive many invitations from the governments to apply for this visas, such as nurses, engineers, ICT engineers, scientists or social workers, many people working in less common occupations are concerned about their chances of being invited and granted a visa subclass 190. Here is some data for some occupations for your reference.
Number of visa granted for particular occupations
| Occupation | Number of visas granted | Note |
| Quantity Surveyor | < 25
(from 02/2020 to 02/2021) |
Queensland had the greatest number of grants, followed by NSW.
Other states did not have any visa grants for this occupation during this period. |
| Solicitor | <10
(from 07/2020 to 12/2020) |
No state specified |
| Statistician | < 30
(from 01/2020 to 01/2021) |
No state specified |
| Systems Analyst | 79
(from 01/2020 to 12/2020) |
|
| Mechanical Engineer | 73
(from 10/2020 to 01/2021) |
Western Australia had the greatest number of visa grants for this occupation (38) while ACT has the least number of grants. |
| Civil Engineer | 103
(from 07/2020 to 01/2021) |
Majority of visa grants were for onshore applications |
Northern Territory and South Australia
Northern Territory and South Australia have become the top choices for applicants who want to pursue Australian permanent residence through visa subclass 190 and subclass 491 because of its opened and flexible programs for its residence. Northern Territory also has the longest occupational lists amongst the states/ territories.
However, during Covid19, the number of visas granted for subclass 190 in Northern Territory is also limited. Let us examine the number of grants during the period from 07/2020 to 12/2020 in Northern Territory.
Besides the limited number of visas granted, the occupations being invited are those in healthcare, engineering, ICT and social professions.
What this means in 2026
The subclass 190 visa is still a permanent, points-tested visa that needs a state or territory nomination. You still need a suitable skills assessment, an occupation on the relevant skilled list, competent English, at least 65 points (nomination adds 5 points) and to be under 45 when invited. What has changed is how each state runs its program and how the Department prioritises processing.
State programs for 2026-27
| State or territory | 2026-27 position (October 2026) |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | 190 open with an updated NSW Skills List; 491 closed under all pathways. |
| Victoria | 900 places for 190; new Registrations of Interest opened 26 October 2026, with monthly rounds from November 2026. 491 settings to be confirmed. |
| Western Australia | Open, with 4,700 places including 1,500 extra 190 places for AUKUS and defence occupations. |
| South Australia | ROIs for people living and working in SA whose visas expire by 31 January 2027; offshore candidates are invited directly from their EOI. |
| Northern Territory | Enough applications received: 190 and offshore streams closed; onshore 491 only by exception. |
| ACT | Invitations continue through the Canberra Matrix. |
Processing in 2026
The 2021 estimate of an 8 to 12 month wait no longer applies. Processing priorities for skilled visas are now set by Ministerial Directions 121 and 122 (from 19 September 2026), which favour healthcare, construction, teaching, resources, agriculture, aquaculture and fishing occupations. Check current skilled visa processing times for the latest figures.
Who this affects now
If you are planning to apply for a 190 visa, past grant numbers are only a rough guide. Places are tight in every state, many states favour people already living and working there, and lists change each program year. Keep your EOI accurate and make sure you can prove every claim.
Next steps
- Check your points with our points test calculator.
- Compare state lists on our state requirements for 190 visa page and follow invitation rounds.
- Read our October 2026 migration news for the latest state updates.
- Consider the 491 regional visa or employer sponsorship if your occupation is not on a state list, or book a consultation.
Related guides
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
- State requirements for 190 visa
- State requirements for 491 visa
- State sponsorship for Australian PR
- State invitation rounds
- New guidelines on the ACT 190 nomination program
- Skilled visa points test
- Moving states on a 190 or 491 visa
- Skilled visa processing times
After the ART Affirms Your Visa Refusal: Your Remaining Options
Visa Refused or Cancelled on Character Grounds: Review and Revocation Options
Skilled Visa Refused (189, 190, 491): Common Reasons and Your Review Options
Offshore Visa Refused: When You Can and Cannot Appeal
Reapply or Seek Review After a Visa Refusal?