Which states can I apply for a subclass 190 and 491 visa for my occupation?

Australia's Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) programs are both state or territory-sponsored visas. This means your eligibility depends on which state or regional government is currently accepting applications for your nominated occupation.

Each Australian state and territory maintains its own Skilled Occupation List, nomination criteria, and invitation process. The eligibility and opportunities vary based on occupation demand, local skill shortages, and state migration quotas.

1. Understanding State and Territory Nomination

For both the 190 and 491 visas:

You must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.

Then, apply for state or regional nomination based on your occupation, skills, and eligibility criteria.

If nominated, you receive extra points:

Subclass 190: +5 points

Subclass 491: +15 points

Each state assesses nominations independently and may require additional criteria such as:

Residency or work experience in that state
Specific English language level
Minimum work experience or job offer
Commitment to live and work in the state or regional area

2. States and Territories You Can Apply To

Here's an overview of Australian states and territories that offer pathways for Subclass 190 and 491 nominations - along with their typical eligibility trends:

New South Wales (NSW)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Key Sectors: IT, Engineering, Healthcare, Accounting, and Construction
NSW conducts regular invitation rounds and often targets occupations in specific ANZSCO unit groups.
For Subclass 491, applications are open to candidates living and working in regional NSW.
You can apply directly via SkillSelect - no separate application required for 190, but 491 needs regional nomination.

Victoria (VIC)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Focus Areas: Health, STEM, ICT, and Education professionals
VIC prioritizes applicants who are living and working in Victoria and contributing to the local economy.
Offshore applicants are considered only if their occupation is critically needed.
The nomination process is invitation-based, meaning you must submit an EOI and wait for an invitation.

Queensland (QLD)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Preferred Occupations: Engineering, Trade, Health, IT, and Agriculture
Managed by Migration Queensland, this state welcomes both onshore and offshore candidates.
For 491, applicants who are living and working in regional Queensland are given priority.
Some streams require a job offer in Queensland.

South Australia (SA)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Highly Popular for Offshore Applicants
South Australia has one of the largest and most flexible occupation lists.
The state accepts applications from both onshore and offshore candidates.
SA operates a points-based nomination system, favoring applicants with higher scores, strong English skills, or relevant work experience.
Excellent for occupations in healthcare, trades, IT, and engineering.

Western Australia (WA)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Key Occupations: Engineering, Construction, Hospitality, Healthcare, and Education
WA invites candidates through the State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP).
Offshore applicants are accepted under specific streamlined occupation lists.
Regional Western Australia offers attractive opportunities for 491 visa holders.

Tasmania (TAS)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Known for welcoming international graduates and offshore skilled workers.
Tasmania provides several nomination pathways:
Graduates from Tasmanian institutions
Skilled workers currently employed in Tasmania
Overseas applicants with skills in demand
Applicants must show a commitment to live and work in Tasmania long term.

Northern Territory (NT)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Key Sectors: Health, Education, Hospitality, Construction, and Trades
NT has a small but targeted migration program, focusing on critical local shortages.
Offshore applicants are accepted but must show a genuine intention to settle in the Territory.
Preference is given to those with job offers or previous study/work in NT.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT - Canberra)

Visas: Subclass 190 & 491
Operates the Canberra Matrix system, where points are awarded for factors such as residency, occupation, English skills, and employment.
Applicants living and working in Canberra are prioritized.
Offshore nominations are limited and invitation-based.

3. How to Find Which States Accept Your Occupation

To determine where your occupation is currently in demand:

Visit each state's official migration website for updated occupation lists.
Check the ANZSCO code for your occupation and compare it with the State Skilled Occupation Lists.
Review specific requirements (e.g., residency, work experience, English level).

Alternatively, you can get a professional assessment done through Apical Immigration Experts, where our specialists identify the best state nomination opportunities based on real-time data.

4. Why State Nomination Matters

State or regional nomination not only enhances your points score but also:

Gives you a clearer pathway to Permanent Residency.
Increases your chances of receiving an invitation faster.
Allows you to live, work, and gain valuable experience in Australia - helping you transition to PR more easily.

5. How Apical Immigration Experts Can Help

Our team continuously tracks each state's latest updates, occupation lists, and quota changes. We provide:

Personalized assessment of your eligibility across all Australian states.
Guidance on selecting the best region based on your skills, occupation, and visa goals.
End-to-end support with skills assessment, EOI submission, and state nomination applications.
With expert planning, we ensure you target the right states that actively invite candidates for your occupation - maximizing your chances of securing a skilled visa.

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