State and territory nomination is a key part of the 190 and 491 visa pathways. Each state has its own rules, occupation lists, and requirements. Understanding the differences can save you months of waiting.
How it works
- You submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect
- Separately, you apply for nomination through the state government's website
- The state reviews your application against their own criteria
- If they nominate you, you receive an Invitation to Apply from the Department of Home Affairs
State-by-state overview
New South Wales
- Large occupation list, particularly strong for IT, engineering, and healthcare
- Competitive, with high points thresholds
- Focuses on candidates already living in NSW or with strong ties to the state
- Processing: 4 to 12 weeks
Victoria
- One of the most popular states for nomination
- Strong in IT, engineering, education, and healthcare
- Has specific requirements around work experience and English levels
- Processing: 8 to 16 weeks
Queensland
- Growing occupation list, particularly in healthcare, engineering, and trades
- Offers both metropolitan and regional nomination pathways
- Generally less competitive than NSW and VIC
- Processing: 6 to 12 weeks
South Australia
- Very active nomination program with a large occupation list
- Offers additional pathways for international graduates of SA institutions
- Adelaide is classified as regional for some visa purposes
- Processing: 4 to 8 weeks
Western Australia
- Strong demand for mining, resources, engineering, and trades
- Separate lists for Perth metro and regional WA
- Can be very fast for in-demand occupations
- Processing: 4 to 8 weeks
Tasmania
- Smallest population, but very welcoming to skilled migrants
- Offers nomination for candidates who have studied in Tasmania
- Lower points thresholds than mainland states
- Processing: 4 to 8 weeks
ACT (Canberra)
- Uses a unique matrix system that scores applicants on multiple factors
- Strong in government, IT, and professional services
- Requires you to live and work in Canberra
- Processing: 6 to 12 weeks
Northern Territory
- Smallest program but actively seeking skilled migrants
- Strong in healthcare, education, and trades
- Lower competition but fewer job opportunities
- Processing: 4 to 8 weeks
How to choose
- Start with your occupation. Which states have it on their list?
- Look at the job market. Can you realistically find work in that state?
- Consider the competition. NSW and VIC are popular but harder to get nominated in
- Check the requirements. Some states want you to already be living there; others will nominate offshore applicants
- Talk to a migration agent if you are unsure. A good agent will know which states are currently prioritizing your occupation
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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.