Australian State Nominations | The Fundamentals
Application ≠ Aus State Nomination
What’s an Australian State Nomination?
It’s a government-initiated process wherein a state or territory nominates skilled migrant workers for visa subclasses.
General Migration Visas eligible for State Nomination
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) Skilled Regional Nominated (subclass 491)
Why does this matter?
Immigration runs the visa procedures through a points-based system, so getting a State Nomination can boost your points. For applicants, this is typically the initial imperative step for 190 & 491 subclasses.
Points-based Visa Requirements | 190 & 491 Visas
The Department of Home Affairs and the Australian states have their own clear set of requirements which we’ll be talking about in this guide. Certain important factors like skills, occupation, and location are considered.
Interested in General Skilled Migration Visas?
3 Pitfalls + Proven Pro Tips
Making errors is something that’s common, but when it comes to visa applications and state requirements, there are mistakes we highly suggest you avoid. Together, our goal is for you to reduce risks and increase your chances of getting nominated. Are you on board?
Pitfall #1 Not State-Specific
Not meeting specific state criteria
Why it’s a mistake: Each state has different requirements with varied occupation lists, and this list changes every year.
Pro Tip: Abide by State Requirements
Follow the state-specific guidelines
Criteria Checklist
All states and territories have specific criteria they base their decisions on. The eligibility list will determine who gets a nomination. Find out more about each state’s nomination process in the official websites provided below.
Australian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
What’s your Focus?
- Ensure your occupation is on the state list
- Carefully review other state requirements and see what other factors the state values (salary, work experience, English ability)
- Ensure you meet the residency requirement for the state
- The states and territories want you to set up a foundation in that state so that once you’re invited, you don’t leave. You remain in that state.
Immi’s Note: If the state or territory agency that nominates you withdraws your nomination after you have applied, your application becomes invalid.
Pitfall #2 Nomination from Another State
You’re keen on getting a nomination from another state
Why it’s a mistake: The government will only invite you only if you’re living and working in the state. Once the visa is approved, there’s no legislative requirement that you remain in that state.
Pro Tip: Live & Work in the Same State
Seek out a nomination from the same place you’re located
When you’ve put down roots in the state you’re applying for, you’ll be able to meet certain requirements which can include:
- A particular occupation on the state’s skills list
- Living and working in the state for a specific duration (important for the 491)
- Receiving a job offer from an employer located in the state
What’s your Focus?
- Meeting the residency and working requirements of the state that you’re in.
Pitfall #3 Applying to All
To level up your chances, you opt to apply to all states/territories
Why it’s a mistake: It would be a waste of time, money, and other resources.
Pro Tip: One State / Territory = One Application
It’s not necessary to submit applications to all of them
The best chance of getting nominated is to keep your application to a minimum. This is the recommended pathway.
What’s your Focus?
- Let your focal point be the state you’re living & working in and to meet all of their specific requirements.
Want to apply for a State Nomination but don't know where to start? We've got you!
Tip Takeaways | The Recap
To sum this all up, let’s review the key takeaways:
DO
☑️ Follow the state-specific requirements
☑️ Live & work in the state you’re applying for
☑️ Apply to only just 1 state or territory
DON’T
🙅 Not meet the specific state criteria
🙅 Apply for a nomination in another state
🙅 Apply to all Australian states
