State Nomination for Australian Skilled Visas

💡 State Nomination Overview

State Nomination is a process that allows Australian states and territories to nominate skilled workers for permanent residency. Applicants who receive a nomination can apply for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) or Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491), both of which allow the applicant to live and work in Australia and pursue permanent residency.

State nomination is highly beneficial, as it offers an additional 5 points for visa applications, and some states also provide specific streams that target certain high-demand occupations.

⚡ At a Glance: State Nomination Rules for Skilled Visas

Applies to:

Skilled visas, including Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa).

Key Tests:

Must meet the points test for skilled migration.

Must have an occupation on the current DHA eligible skilled occupation list (CSOL-linked).

Must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the nominating state (e.g., occupation, language proficiency, work experience).

Consequences:

Missing the state nomination or failing to meet the state’s requirements can result in the refusal of your visa application.

Waivers:

There are no waivers for state nomination requirements, so applicants must ensure they meet the specific state or territory’s criteria.

📜 What Is State Nomination?

State Nomination is the process through which Australian states and territories nominate skilled workers to apply for a permanent skilled visa, such as Subclass 190 or a provisional visa like Subclass 491.

Each state and territory has its own eligibility criteria and occupation lists that applicants must meet to be considered for nomination. Nomination by a state provides extra points for your visa application, improving your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the visa.

Example: If your occupation is in demand in New South Wales (NSW), you may be eligible for a nomination under NSW’s skilled migration program, which gives you an additional 5 points toward your visa application.

🌟 Why State Nomination Matters

State Nomination is a crucial pathway for skilled workers who wish to migrate to Australia. It allows you to access additional points for your visa application, increasing your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

State-nominated applicants often have faster processing times and more flexible eligibility requirements, especially for those applying under Subclass 491 for regional areas.

🔍 Step-by-Step: Meeting State Nomination Requirements

Step 1: Check State Occupation Lists

Research and confirm that your occupation is on the state’s Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL),. States and territories may have their own lists of occupations in demand.

Example: Queensland may list Project Managers on their state’s list, while Victoria may focus on healthcare professionals.

Step 2: Ensure You Meet Points Requirements

To qualify for Subclass 190 or Subclass 491, you must first meet the points test. State nomination can provide an additional 5 points.

Example: If you have 60 points and receive 5 points from a state nomination, you now have 65 points, which may be enough to receive an invitation to apply.

Step 3: Review State-Specific Eligibility Criteria

Each state has specific eligibility criteria for nomination. This may include work experience, English proficiency, and a commitment to live and work in the state.

Example: Some states require applicants to have 2 years of work experience in their nominated occupation or to have studied in that state.

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

You must submit an EOI through SkillSelect to express your interest in migrating to Australia. Your EOI must include details of your occupation, qualifications, and whether you’re seeking state nomination.

Step 5: Apply for State Nomination

Once invited by a state, you must submit a nomination application to the relevant state or territory government. Each state has its own process for handling applications.

Example: After receiving an invitation from South Australia, you would submit an application to their government, providing supporting documents such as skills assessments and proof of employment

Step 5: Submit Your Visa Application

After receiving the state nomination, you can apply for the relevant visa (e.g., Subclass 190 or Subclass 491). Your application will be assessed by the Department of Home Affairs.

📋 Required Documents for State Nomination

Skills Assessment: (from the relevant assessing body like Vetassess, ANMAC, etc.).

Educational Certificates : (e.g., degrees, diplomas).

English Proficiency Test Results : (e.g., IELTS, PTE).

Work Experience Documentation: (e.g., job references, pay slips)

State Nomination Application: (submitted to the relevant state or territory).

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Not Meeting State-Specific Criteria: Failing to research and meet the requirements for state nomination can result in delays or refusal.

Incorrect or Incomplete EOI: Ensure your EOI is complete and includes accurate information about your occupation, qualifications, and experience. Missing information can reduce your chances of being invited.

Not Having Required Documents: Ensure all required documents (e.g., skills assessment, English proficiency, police clearance) are submitted correctly.

🌟 Why It Matters

State Nomination can make a significant difference in your chances of successfully migrating to Australia. Meeting the criteria and receiving a state nomination not only adds 5 points to your visa application but also opens up opportunities to live and work in areas that are in need of skilled workers.

❓FAQs

What happens if I don’t meet the State Nomination requirements?

👉 Missing state nomination requirements can result in your visa being refused or your application being delayed

How do I know if my occupation is eligible for State Nomination?

👉 You can check the relevant State Occupation List for each Australian state and territory to confirm if your occupation is listed.

Can I apply for State Nomination from overseas?

👉 Yes, you can apply from overseas, but you must meet all eligibility criteria set by the state or territory.

How do I apply for a State Nomination?

You apply for State Nomination by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect and then applying to the relevant state government after receiving an invitation.

Can I be nominated by multiple states?

👉 Yes, you may receive nominations from more than one state or territory, but you will need to choose which one to accept.

📞 Book a Free Consultation with a Migration Expert

Speak directly with a MARA-registered migration agent and have your Skilled Visa strategy explained step-by-step — at no cost.

Why Trust Visa Advisor?

Choosing the right migration partner can make all the difference.

Here’s why Visa Advisor is the trusted choice

Expert Guidance

MARA-registered agents with years of experience simplify your migration journey.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees—just honest advice.

Global Support

Flexible online and in-person consultations, wherever you are.

Smart Tools

Advanced visa finders and calculators to make decisions easier.

Proven Results

Trusted by clients for reliable, personalized migration support.

Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.