What are the state nomination requirements for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)?

The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a points-based permanent residency visa that requires a nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state or territory has its own specific requirements for nomination, based on local labor market needs. Below are the general requirements along with details for state-specific nomination criteria:

1. Basic Eligibility Requirements

Age: You must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.
Skills Assessment: A positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation is essential. Your occupation must be on the State or Territory Skilled Occupation List.
Points Requirement: You must score at least 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs points test. However, higher points may increase your chances of being nominated, as some states prioritize applicants with higher points.
English Proficiency: You need to meet at least Competent English proficiency, though some states may require higher proficiency levels for specific occupations.

2. State or Territory-Specific Criteria

Each state and territory has specific requirements, often based on their unique skill shortages. Here's an outline of what some states generally require:

New South Wales (NSW)

Occupation List: NSW maintains a skilled occupation list that reflects the skills needed in the state. Only applicants with occupations on this list are eligible.
Work Experience: Some occupations may require additional work experience or higher points to be prioritized.
Residency in NSW: In some cases, NSW gives preference to applicants already living or working in the state.

Victoria

Occupation Demand: Victoria prioritizes occupations in healthcare, STEM, and other critical industries.
Work Experience and Skills: Applicants with advanced skills, work experience, or research expertise in their field are favored.
Living and Working in Victoria: While not mandatory, applicants who live, work, or have studied in Victoria are generally prioritized.

Queensland

Skills in Demand: Queensland maintains separate occupation lists for those living in the state, offshore applicants, and those willing to work in regional areas.
Employment Requirement: For many occupations, Queensland requires applicants to have a job offer in their field from a Queensland employer, especially for offshore applicants.
Regional Prioritization: The state favors applicants who are willing to live and work in regional Queensland.

South Australia

Occupation List: South Australia has a large list of eligible occupations, with varying requirements based on skill level and demand.
Work Experience: Specific work experience requirements apply, and applicants may need to demonstrate recent employment in their occupation.
Living in South Australia: South Australia has pathways for international graduates and professionals already residing in the state.

Western Australia (WA)

Occupational Demand: Western Australia has a two-stream occupation list, one for general streams and one for regional occupations.
State Residency: WA often favors applicants who are already living in the state, including graduates of WA institutions.
Employment or Job Offer: Certain occupations may require a job offer from a WA employer, especially for applicants outside of Australia.

Tasmania

State Residency and Study Requirements: Tasmania strongly prefers applicants who have studied or currently live in Tasmania. The state offers a pathway for graduates from Tasmanian institutions.
Job Offer: For offshore applicants, a job offer in Tasmania is typically required unless the applicant has an occupation on Tasmania's Priority Occupation List.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Points-Based Canberra Matrix: ACT uses a unique points matrix to select candidates. Points are based on criteria such as ACT residency, length of employment in ACT, and close family ties.
Living in ACT: Applicants residing and working in the ACT are prioritized, and points are awarded for those who have lived there for an extended period.

Northern Territory (NT)

Commitment to NT: The NT requires applicants to demonstrate a strong commitment to living in the region, particularly for those applying offshore.
Job Offer: Offshore applicants typically need a job offer in their occupation from an NT employer, while onshore applicants who have studied or lived in the NT are given preference.

3. Financial Capacity Requirement

Some states, such as Tasmania and Northern Territory, may require proof of financial capacity to support yourself and your family until you secure employment.

4. Commitment to the State or Territory

Most states require applicants to sign a commitment indicating that they intend to live and work in that state or territory for at least two years after receiving the visa.

The state nomination requirements for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) vary by region, with each state or territory setting specific criteria to meet its labor market needs. Generally, requirements include a positive skills assessment, meeting occupation list criteria, and showing a commitment to living and working in the state. Familiarizing yourself with each state's requirements will help you align your application with the state's priorities and increase your chances of nomination.

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