Welfare Worker — Subclass 190 Pathway
Skilled Nominated visa · Permanent
At a glance
- Visa
- Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated visa
- Points test
- Yes — points-tested via SkillSelect
- Sponsor
- State / territory nomination required
- Eligibility list
- MLTSSLSTSOLCSOL
- Base fee
- from $4,640 (check immi.gov.au for current fee)
- Processing time
- ~8-14 months (median)
Skills assessment for this occupation
Assessing Welfare Worker for migration purposes is handled by: CWA.
Each occupation has a single designated assessing authority for migration purposes — refer to the occupation page for the body that assesses it.
Welfare Worker × Subclass 190 — pathway overview
Welfare Workers (ANZSCO 272613), listed on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), are eligible for the permanent Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa. The Subclass 190 is points-tested and requires formal nomination from an Australian state or territory government. State and territory governments issue invitations based on their specific workforce needs, and each jurisdiction publishes its own eligibility criteria and occupation ceilings. Applicants must be under 45 at time of invitation and hold Competent English (IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent). A positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for community welfare must be obtained before submitting an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. Competitive points scores are typically 85 or above. The indicative application fee is from AUD 4,640, with processing typically 8 to 15 months. Upon visa grant, permanent residency is conferred. For advice tailored to your individual circumstances, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.
Content last generated: 2026-06-26
Key requirements
High-level criteria for Subclass 190. Verify every requirement on immi.gov.au before applying.
- Under 45 years of age at invitation
- Competent English (IELTS 6 or equivalent)
- Positive skills assessment in a nominated occupation on a state list
- State or territory nomination (each state runs its own program)
- Commitment to live and work in the nominating state
- Health and character requirements
Other visa pathways for Welfare Worker
State nominations for Welfare Worker
States currently nominating this occupation — see the dedicated pages for state-specific criteria.