Skilled Migration

Allocation:

VIC has been allocated 3400 places, divided as follows:

• 2700 places for 190 visas 
• 700 places for 491 visas

Key features

• Victoria offers state nomination for skilled professionals living in Victoria or overseas under the following skilled visas:

• • Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) –  A permanent  visa to live and work anywhere in Victoria.
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) A provisional (5 year) visa with a pathway to permanent residency after living and working in regional Victoria for at least 3 years.
• All occupations on the relevant Department of Home Affairs skilled occupation list are eligible.
• To be invited to apply for Victorian Skilled visa nomination and assessment, you must first make or update an Expression of Interest (EOI) via the Australian Government’s SkillSelect and then submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) for Victorian State Visa Nomination. You can only have one active Registration of Interest (ROI) submitted at any time.
• If on the ROI you are asked to provide information about estimated annual earnings, this must be a base salary (not including superannuation) and use the figure from the  Annual Earnings Estimation Guide page. Over claiming on salary will result in refusal.
• Victoria is yet to confirm the occupations they are prioritising.
• For applicants living in another state or territory in Australia, you cannot apply for Victorian nomination.

• There is no charge to apply for Registration of Interest or Victorian visa nomination. The Department of Home Affairs will charge a fee when you submit your visa application. Professional fees will apply if you engage Hammond Migration.
• Victoria is highly competitive and it is not recommended to rely on nomination alone. Please contact us if you are considering applying for a sponsored work visa such as the Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage visa, Subclass 407 – Training visa, Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa  or Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme visa. We can also assist with DAMA and Labour Agreement applications.

Eligibility – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) 

The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) allows skilled migrants to live and work in designated regional areas for up to 5 years, with a pathway to permanent residence after 3 years.  After 3 years, subclass 491 visa holders may be eligible to apply for the subclass 191 visa which provides permanent residence. To be eligible to apply for Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) nomination, you must: 

• be living and working in regional Victoria or living overseas,
• be committed to living and working in regional Victoria ,
• have had your Registration of Interest (ROI) selected,
• be under 45 years of age,
• have at least Competent English,
• have a valid skills assessment in an occupation on the eligible skilled occupation list for this visa,
• have achieved at least 65 points on the Australian Government’s points test for your Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.

If you are living in Australia (onshore) you must be living in regional Victoria. VIC will not be selecting Registration of Interests (ROIs) from onshore applicants who do not live in regional Victoria (rare exemptions may apply but we await further details, eg if 485 visa holders must)

If you are living overseas (offshore), you are eligible to apply for Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) visa nomination. Subclass 491 visa holders must live and work in regional Victoria once the visa has been granted.

Employment

• You must be working in skilled employment for an employer physically located in regional Victoria.
  • A business using a virtual office or proxy office is not considered as physically located in regional Victoria.

• You must provide an estimate of your annual earnings in your ROI aligned with Annual earnings estimation guide. Victoria is very strict with overclaiming, so this is best to be avoided.

• Your employment does not have to be related to or the same as your nominated occupation but does need to be skilled. Skilled employment includes any role that is at skill levels 1, 2 or 3 in the relevant ANZSCO classification.

• There is no minimum requirement for hours worked.

• If you are not working, working in non-skilled employment, or working for an employer who is not physically located in regional Victoria, you are not eligible to apply for nomination.

Eligibility – Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)

The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) allows skilled migrants to live and work in Victoria as permanent residents. To be eligible to apply for Victorian Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa nomination, you must:

• be living in Victoria or overseas,
• be committed to living and working in Victoria,
• have had your Registration of Interest (ROI) selected,
• be under 45 years of age,
• have at least Competent English
• have a valid Skills Assessment in an occupation on the eligible skilled occupation list for this visa,
• have achieved at least 65 points on the Australian Government’s points test for your Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
• Employment
• You are not required to be working to be eligible for Victorian subclass 190 visa nomination. There is no minimum work experience and hours of work requirement.
• If you are living in Victoria and work in skilled employmentfor an employer physically located in Victoria, you you must provide an estimate of your annual earnings using the Victorian calculator – see Annual earnings estimation guide. Victoria is very strict with overclaiming, so this is best to be avoided.
• Skilled employment includes any role that is at skill levels 1, 2 or 3 in the relevant ANZSCO classification.

Allocation:

NSW has been allocated 3600 places, divided as follows:

• 2100 places for 190 visas 
• 1500 places for 491 visas

Key features:

• Invitation rounds occur throughout the financial year. There are no predetermined or publicly announced dates for NSW invitation rounds.
• NSW considers multiple factors when selecting EOIs including but not limited to age, English language proficiency, education, points score, and total years of skilled work experience. The highest ranking EOIs within an ANZSCO unit group are invited to apply.
• NSW specifically mentions because of the high demand for NSW nomination, they strongly advise you to consider all other migration pathways and not rely solely on an invitation.
• The date you submit or amend your SkillSelect EOI does not affect your likelihood of being invited.
• The NSW Skills List help identify the critical skills needed to support the growth and development of New South Wales. The skills lists are at the ANZSCO Unit Group level. Please note that not all occupations within an ANZSCO Unit Group are eligible for the respective visa. Only occupations listed as eligible for each visa are considered for NSW nomination.
• Priority will be given to specific sectors that have persistent skill shortages within the state. This includes Construction (infrastructure and housing), Net Zero and Clean Energy, Care and Support Economy(aged care and disability services, early childhood education and care sectors), Digital and Cyber (across all sectors), Agriculture and Agrifood and Advanced manufacturing.  
• The state requirements are reflective of the federal eligibility requirements set out by the Department of Home Affairs.

Key steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet both the visa and NSW nomination eligibility requirements before applying. 
2. Submit Your EOI: If you meet the criteria, submit an EOI in SkillSelect.
3. Be Invited: NSW holds invitation rounds throughout the financial year. All valid EOIs in occupations within ANZSCO unit groups identified on the NSW Skills List are eligible for NSW nomination.
4. Respond Promptly if Invited: Your invitation to apply will be valid for 14 days only. When you apply, you need to provide valid documents to substantiate every claim made in your EOI. This 14-day window will not be extended.
5. Wait For Your Nomination Assessment: Your application will typically be assessed within six weeks after payment.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

NSW offers a state nomination pathway for highly skilled migrants under the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa to support the state’s economic growth.

Eligibility:

• Have received an invitation from Investment New South Wales to apply. This invitation is only offered to those who have met the 65 points test* requirement and have a demonstrated competency in English.
• Have a valid skills assessment by the relevant body of your nominated occupation. You can determine who this may be here.
• Skills assessment – Have a valid skills assessment for an occupation that is both:
  • Listed on the eligible skilled occupation list for this visa; and
  • Falls within an ANZSCO unit group identified on the NSW Skills List.
• Residency** – You must meet one of following criteria:
  • Working in NSW in your nominated occupation; or
  • Residing in NSW and have continuously resided in NSW for a minimum period of six months; or
  • Residing offshore and have continuously resided offshore for a minimum period of six months.

*Points are often mentioned in association with visa eligibility. The Department has provided this tool to help you determine how many points you may have.

**Time spent in NSW on a tourist visa does not count towards meeting the residency requirements for NSW nomination. To be eligible, you must reside in NSW on a visa that permits you to live and work in the state. Any time spent on a tourist visa will not be considered as part of the required residency period.

Subclass 491– Skilled Work Regional Visa

There are now currently three pathways available for the subclass 491.

Pathway 1- Direct Application – Work in Regional NSW

Eligibility:

• Meet the visa requirements set out by the Department of Home Affairs.
• You must have worked in regional New South Wales for at least six months and with one employer that is also your nominated occupation or closely related to it.
• You are paid a minimum of the TSMIT/CSIT salary rate (currently $76515) from your qualifying employer at the time of applying.

TSMIT/CSIT Concession:

Some employers may be able to apply for this concession if the nominated occupation is in the eligible occupation list. Please see eligible occupations here.

There are two categories for this concession:

Type 1 – Businesses must demonstrate that annual monetary earnings will be at least 90% of TSMIT/CSIT while also meeting Award requirements and Annual Market Salary Rate expectations for the specific occupation and location.

Type 2 – Businesses must demonstrate that monetary earnings will be at least 90% of TSMIT/CSIT and non- monetary earnings (food and board) must not be more than 10% of TSMIT/CSIT, with the total package being at least equal to the TSMIT/CSIT.

Pathway 2- Invitation for Priority Occupations

Eligibility:

• Must have a positive skills assessment result for an occupation in the NSW Regional Skills List.
• Must meet one of following criteria:
• Working in NSW in your nominated occupation; or
• Residing in NSW and have continuously resided in NSW for a minimum period of three months; or
• Residing offshore and have continuously resided offshore for a minimum period of three months.

Pathway 3- Regional NSW Graduate

Eligibility:

• Must have an eligible educational qualification (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or research degree) that is also related to your nominated occupation from an institution located in a designated regional area of NSW.
• Must have graduated in the last 24 months prior to applying for nominations as per Academic Transcripts/ Completion Letters.
• Qualify you to claim points for ‘Study in regional Australia’
• The nominated occupation must be on the NSW Regional Skills List.
• You must meet one of following criteria:

• Working in NSW in your nominated occupation; or
• Residing in NSW and have continuously resided in NSW for a minimum period of three months; or
• Residing offshore and have continuously resided offshore for a minimum period of three months.

Allocation:

SA has been allocated 2250 places, divided as follows:

• 1350 places for 190 visas 
• 900 places for 491 visas

Overview

State nomination enables the state government to nominate highly skilled migrants to meet South Australia’s skills needs.

There are four nomination streams available for Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas. These include:

1. South Australian Graduates
2. Skilled Employment in South Australia
3. Outer Regional Skilled Employment
4. Offshore

To apply for state nomination through one of these streams you must first lodge an Expression of Interest to the Department of Home Affairs as well as a Registration of Interest (ROI) via South Australia’s Skilled and Business Migration Portal. From here, you may then receive an invitation to apply with state nomination from the South Australian government.

South Australia offers a state nomination pathway for the Skilled Nominated Visa – Subclass 190 if you meet the state nomination requirements.  

Key features 

A Subclass 190 visa allows applicants to stay in South Australia indefinitely. 

State nomination from South Australia provides you with five additional points to help you qualify for a subclass 190 visa under the Department of Home Affairs points test*. 

Eligibility  

To be eligible to apply for nomination, you must: 

• Have an active Expression of Interest (EOI) with the Department of Home Affairs with South Australia as your first preferred State
• Score at least 65 points in the Department of Home Affairs points test
• Nominate an occupation on the South Australia’s Skilled Occupation List
• Currently live and work in South Australia
• Be under the age of 45 at the time your state nomination is approved

• Have a valid skills assessment  

• Have at least Competent English and/ or meet the English requirement of your occupation’s registration requirement
• Have an eligible skilled occupation, as determined by the Migration (Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities) Instrument 2019; and 

 If you satisfy these initial requirements set out by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, you may then be able to apply under the following South Australia state-specific streams.  

Stream 1: Graduates   

To be eligible for this pathway you must have completed your qualification at a South Australian education provider and meet the following study requirements: 

• Your course in South Australia must be Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) registered, with a minimum of 46 CRICOS weeks 
• Your study meets the minimum qualification level listed for your nominated occupation on the Skilled Occupation List 
• A minimum of 75% of your qualification must have been completed in South Australia 
• You must have resided in South Australia for at least one year during your studies
• Have been residing and working for the last 6 months, and be currently employed, in a full-time job (at least 30 hours per week). Your job must be related to, and at the same skill level as, your nominated occupation.  
• Your minimum 6-month work-experience in your nominated field must have taken place post-course completion.  

Stream 2: Skilled Migrants  

This pathway may be available to international graduates, self-employed applicants, and sub-contractors already living and working in South Australia.  

Requirements include: 

• Have been living in South Australia for at least the last 12 months;  

• Have been working for the last 12 months, and be currently employed, in a full-time (at least 30 hours per week) job. Your job must be related to, and at the same skill level as, your nominated occupation; and  

• Have undertaken your skilled work experience post-course completion.  

Stream 3: Skilled Migrants (Outer Regional)  

Similarly to stream 2, if you are skilled migrant already in living and working in South Australia, but specifically in an outer regional area of the state, this pathway may be available to you.   

Requirements: 

• Currently work and live in Outer Regional South Australia. The postcodes included in this area are listed on the South Australian government website, and linked here for your convenience.  

• Your nominated occupation must be included in South Australia’s State’s Skilled Occupation List;.

• Have been living and working in Outer Regional SA for the last 9 months, and be currently employed, in a full-time job (at least 30 hours per week). Your job must be related to, and at the same skill level as, your nominated occupation.  

• Have undertaken your skilled work experience post-course completion.  

 Stream 4: Skilled Migrants (Offshore) 

You must be offshore and submitted an Expression of Interest using the Commonwealth Government’s SkillSelect system. This pathway will be available if following your Expression of Interest, South Australia invites you to apply for state nomination.  

For most occupations, applicants must have a minimum of three years of skilled employment in their nominated or related occupation within the last 5 years to secure an invitation to apply for SA nomination.  This excludes construction which only requires a minimum of one year of skilled employment within the last three years.  

Your nominated occupation must be included in South Australia’s State’s Skilled Occupation List. 

South Australia will be assessing candidates on merit by the following factors:  

1. English language ability  

1. Years and field of skilled employment  

1. Expression Of Interest points  

The Department of Home Affairs website also has a points calculator here. We can assist you in determining which points may be available to you. 

Allocation:

WA has been allocated 3400 places, divided as follows:

• 2000 places for 190 visas 
• 1400 places for 491 visas

Cost

The 2025-2026 program year has reintroduced the $200 application fee.

Professional fees will also apply if you engage Hammond Migration for assistance.

Eligibility

There are two streams available to applicants- the General Stream and the Graduate Stream. The General Stream is then broken down into pathways via either Schedule 1 or Schedule2 of the WA Skilled Migration occupation list (WASMOL).

Requirements of General Stream WASMOL Schedule 1

• Occupation listed on WASMOL Schedule 1 occupation list
• Positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation (occupation must be the same on the EOI and application to WA)
• Satisfy the Department of Home Affairs requirement for Subclass 190 and/ or Subclass 491
• Minimum score in English language test (score derived from a single sitting). Specific scores listed here.
• Demonstrate at least one year of work experience in Australia or overseas in the nominated (or closely related) occupation over the last 10 years. Experience will only be considered for work post qualification, in in paid employment, and with minimum 20 hours per week in the role. Evidence of this employment must also be provided which may includes payslips or a letter from an employer.

Applications for a 190 visa must also have a contract of employment in your nominated (or closely related) occupation for full-time employment in Western Australia, for at least six months from the date of your application for State nomination. Full-time employment is defined as an average of at least 35 hours work per week. You are able to provide two contracts of employment to make up the 35 hours.

General stream WASMOL Schedule 2 (other occupations)

• Occupation listed on WASMOL Schedule 2 occupation list.
• Positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation (occupation must be the same on the EOI and application to WA)
• Satisfy the Department of Home Affairs requirement for Subclass 190 and/ or Subclass 491
• Minimum score in English language test (score derived from a single sitting). Specific scores listed here.
• Applications for a 190 visa must also have a contract of employment in your nominated (or closely related) occupation for full-time employment in Western Australia, for at least six months from the date of your application for State nomination. Full-time employment is defined as an average of at least 35 hours work per week. You are able to provide two contracts of employment to make up the 35 hours

Graduate stream

• Occupation listed on WASMOL Graduate stream occupation list
• Positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation (occupation must be the same on the EOI and application to WA)
• Satisfy the Department of Home Affairs requirement for Subclass 190 and/ or Subclass 491
• Minimum score in English language test (score derived from a single sitting). Specific scores listed here.
• Gained a qualification:
  • From an accredited WA educational institution
  • At PhD, Masters, Bachelor (including Honours), Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Trade Certificate III level or higher
  • Through Full-time study and face to face learning
  • Of at least two academic years duration.

Vocational education and training (VET) qualification at a Certificate III level or above may also be considered.

Study gained through an English language program can be used to meet the study requirement, if you have also gained at least one of the qualifications listed above.

 You will need to provide the following:

• award certificate/s;
• a record of your results, such as transcript/s or a statement of attainment showing two years full-time study in Western Australia; and
• a letter from your education provider confirming, the details of your course including the delivery method, start and completion dates and study load. If you studied at multiple education providers to fulfil the two-year study requirement, a letter must be provided from each education provider.

If you were studying under an Australian student visa, you will also need to provide:

• confirmation of enrolment/s (COEs) issued by the Department of Education for the duration of your two years of WA study.
• evidence of approval from your education provider if any part of your full-time course was completed at a reduced study load. Study completed at a reduced load due to credit transfers from outside of Western Australia is not eligible.

The education provider determines whether a course is full-time or part-time. The onus is on the applicant to provide evidence to show two years of full-time study in Western Australia.

 Invitation Rounds

Invitations for WA State nomination are anticipated to be issued each month. The number of invitations issued each month may vary depending on the number of applications being processed by WA Migration Services. If you are invited, WA Migration Services will contact you via email with a link to the State nomination application form. 

Ranking

Candidates eligible for the General streams will be ranked in accordance with the following:

• currently residing in Western Australia
• currently residing offshore or in another Australian state or territory
• occupations in priority WA Industry sectors (in no particular order):
  • building and construction;
  • healthcare and social assistance;
  • hospitality and tourism; and
  • education and training.
• occupations in all other WA industry sectors
• highest EOI points score
• oldest EOI submission date

Graduate stream applicants will be ranked as above, with graduates of higher qualifications being ranked above those with lower qualifications.

WA residency evidence

Applicants receiving a prioritised invitation based on residing in Western Australia must be able to substantiate this claim by providing evidence such as a residential property lease agreement, bank or mortgage statement, insurance policies, registration or driver’s licence renewal notice.

Allocation:

TAS has been allocated 1850 places, divided as follows:

• 1200 places for 190 visas 
• 650 places for 491 visas

Key features

Migration Tasmania provides several distinct pathways for skilled professionals and graduates currently residing in the state to seek visa nomination. Each pathway outlines specific eligibility criteria and candidate attributes that must be met.

It’s important to note that meeting the published minimum requirements does not guarantee nomination. The number of available nominations is capped each year by the Australian Government, meaning only a limited number of applicants can be selected.

To qualify for Tasmania’s skilled visa nomination, applicants must first submit an EOI in the SkillSelect system and then a Registration of Interest (ROI) and meet the eligibility criteria for the priority attributes they claim in their application. These attributes are used to rank candidates for selection.

Nomination can be granted under six main pathways, which include four for applicants currently in Tasmania and two for those applying from overseas:

1. Tasmanian Skilled Employment Pathway (TSE)
2. Tasmanian Skilled Graduate Pathway (TSG)
3. Tasmanian Established Resident Pathway (TER)
4. Tasmanian Business Operator Pathway (TBO)

5. Subclass 190 Overseas Applicant (Health or Education Sector Job Offer) Pathway
6. Subclass 491 Overseas Skilled Occupation Profiles – Invitation Only Pathway

1. Tasmanian Skilled Employment Pathway (TSE)

Subclass 190 (Onshore Applicants)
Applicants must:

• Have worked in Tasmania in a position directly related to their skills assessment (same ANZSCO 3-digit group) and comply with any occupation-specific requirements.
• Have been employed for at least 9 months (or 6 months if working in education, health, or allied health) — or 15 months under the “long-term employment” category.
• Hold a valid skills assessment in a TSE Priority Occupation (for the “Priority Occupation” option), or in any eligible occupation under the long-term employment category.
• Have worked an average of 20 hours per week during the qualifying period and earned a minimum of $57,000 per year ($28.85/hour), excluding overtime or loadings.
• Be living in Tasmania, with genuine intent to stay employed in the same field for at least two years after nomination.
• Have dependants who have resided in Tasmania for at least three months (if applicable).
• Hold a valid 12-month employment contract with at least three months remaining.
• Be working for a Tasmanian business operating for at least 12 months, offering fair pay and working conditions equivalent to Australian citizens or permanent residents.
• Self-employed individuals or contractors must show 12 months of business activity in Tasmania and hold a relevant skills assessment.

Subclass 491 (Onshore Applicants)
Applicants must:

• Have worked in Tasmania for at least 9 months in a role earning $57,000 or more annually, or 12 months if earning between the National Minimum Wage and $57,000.
• Have averaged 20 hours per week during that time.
• Be living and working in Tasmania at the time of application and intend to remain for at least two years.
• Have dependants residing only in Tasmania.
• Be employed by a Tasmanian business that has been operating for at least 12 months, offering an ongoing role with a minimum 12-month contract.
• If the job is not directly related to the applicant’s skills assessment, they must demonstrate suitable qualifications or experience under the OSCA framework.
• Self-employed or subcontractors must show 12 months of activity and a relevant skills assessment.
• For positions paying below $57,000, the employer must provide proof of recruitment difficulty and career development opportunities.

2. Tasmanian Skilled Graduate Pathway (TSG)

Subclass 190 (Onshore Applicants)
Applicants must:

• Have completed a CRICOS-registered course at a Tasmanian tertiary institution (minimum 92 weeks in duration, AQF Level 5 or above).
  Alternatively, a Certificate III may be accepted if related to an OSCA Major Group 3 or 4 occupation.
• Have studied full-time and on-site.
• Have lived in Tasmania for at least two calendar years from the start of their studies.
• PhD students who did not complete their undergraduate degree in Tasmania may qualify after two years of residency and two years of PhD study.
• Be currently living in Tasmania with a clear intent to stay.

Subclass 491 (Onshore Applicants)
Applicants must:

• Have completed a CRICOS-registered course (minimum 40 weeks in duration, AQF Level 5 or higher, or Certificate III related to an OSCA Major Group 3 or 4 occupation).
• Have studied full-time and on-site.
• Have lived in Tasmania for at least one calendar year from the beginning of the course.
• Currently reside in Tasmania and intend to remain.

3. Tasmanian Established Resident Pathway (TER)

Subclass 190 (Onshore Applicants)
Applicants must:

• Have lived in Tasmania for a minimum of three years, spending no more than 50% of their total Australian residence in other states or territories.
• Have worked in Tasmania for 12 months within the past two years earning $57,000+, or 18 months within three years earning between the minimum wage and $57,000.
• Alternatively, applicants may qualify if they worked remotely from Tasmania for 12 months with income above $57,000, or have operated a Tasmanian business for two years generating profit and income above TSMIT ($76,515).

Subclass 491 (Onshore Applicants)
Applicants must:

• Have lived in Tasmania for at least two years, with no more than 50% of their total Australian residence elsewhere.
• Have been employed for at least 6 months in the last year earning $57,000+ p.a., or 12 months in the past 18 months earning between the minimum wage and $57,000.
• Minimum work requirement: 20 hours per week.

4. Tasmanian Business Operator Pathway (TBO)

Subclass 491 (Onshore Applicants)
Applicants must:

• Have owned and operated a Tasmanian business (solely or jointly with a spouse) for at least 12 months.
• Demonstrate that the business has been profitable and income is derived from genuine commercial activity.
• Massage therapy business owners must hold a valid skills assessment and a registered health fund provider number.
• Subcontractors or independent contractors are not eligible for this pathway.

5. Subclass 190 Overseas Applicant (Health or Education Sector Job Offer) Pathway

Overseas Applicants must:

• Hold a valid skills assessment in a health, allied health, or education occupation within ANZSCO groups 241, 251, 252, 253, or 254.
• Have a formal job offer from a Tasmanian employer operating for at least 12 months, directly related to their skills.
• School Teachers must have an offer from a Tasmanian school.
• Not have lived in any other Australian state or territory in the past 12 months (including dependants).
• Receive pay and conditions equal to or better than market rates.
• Demonstrate that the role is genuine, ongoing, and sustainable.

All ROIs under this pathway receive a Gold Pass, granting immediate eligibility for nomination.

6. Subclass 491 Overseas Skilled Occupation Profiles – Invitation Only Pathway

This option is currently Closed – no ROIs will be accepted until the 2025–26 occupation list is released. Invitations will be sent by Migration Tasmania when applicable.

Overseas Applicants must:

• Receive an invitation from Migration Tasmania through SkillSelect before lodging an ROI.
• Have not lived in another Australian state or territory in the past 12 months (including dependants).
• Provide evidence of job market research in Tasmania, including two recent job advertisements and a brief statement explaining how their experience aligns with those roles.
• Show proof of financial capacity to support themselves and dependants for at least six months while seeking work in Tasmania.

All candidates under this pathway are granted a Gold Pass, allowing them to apply for nomination immediately.

Queensland (QLD)

Allocation:

QLD has been allocated 2600 places, divided as follows:

• 1850 places for 190 visas 
• 750 places for 491 visas

Key features

You must obtain a nomination from the Queensland Government, if you wish to migrate to Queensland under:

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – allows nominated skilled workers to live and work in regional Queensland. 
• Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190) – allows nominated skilled workers to live and work in Queensland as permanent residents.  

To be considered you will need to:

• hold a skills assessment*
• submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect with 65 points or more** an
• submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) with QLD.

Subclass 491- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa 

This is a five-year, points-tested visa that leads to permanent residency after living and working in regional Queensland for at least three years.

After registering an Expression of Interest with the state, you may then be invited to apply for the subclass 491 visa.

There are five streams available for this subclass in Queensland. This includes:

1. Skilled Workers (in Queensland) – this stream is for skilled workers currently employed in Queensland, helping to fill priority skills gaps
2. Skilled Workers (offshore) – this stream is for skilled workers outside of Australia who can contribute to Queensland’s strongest skilled workforce needs
3. Building and construction workers – this steam is to assist with major infrastructure projects and events. Largely geared for 190 visa applicants, but 491 visa is also possible  
4. Queensland Graduates – this stream is for international graduates who have an eligible qualification from a Queensland university and are currently employed in QLD
5. Small Business Owners – this stream is for migrants who are currently living in and operating a small business in regional Queensland (subclass 491 only)

Note:

• This stream is closed to businesses purchased or started after 19 September 2025 however
• businesses purchased or started before 19 September 2025 may still be invited to apply.

 
Pathway 1 – 491 – Skilled Workers (in Queensland)

Requirements include:

• Have an occupation on eligible skilled occupations: Queensland Onshore Skills List.
  • Note that Chefs and Cooks are unable to apply by working in takeaway or fast-food businesses.
• Have 65 points or more**
• Have Competent English or higher
• Immediately before registering your interest in Queensland nomination, you have been living and working in:
  • Regional Queensland for the past 6 months for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
•  This work experience must be:
  • After you completed your qualification
  • In an occupation that has the same first 3 digits in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) code as your nominated occupation
  • At least 20 hours per week.
• We also note the following:
  • You must still be in a role that meets the above requirements when you submit your ROI, when you are selected for invitation, and when you are nominated
  • Casual work is accepted
  • Multiple eligible jobs can be combined to meet requirements
  • Work from home is allowed, where your employer has a physical presence in Queensland.
• Must commit to living and working in regional Queensland for 3 years from date your visa is granted.

 
Pathway 2 – 491 – Skilled Workers (offshore)

Requirements include:

• Have an occupation on Queensland Offshore Skills List.
  • Note that information on employment in Queensland for certain occupations, such as licencing and registration requirements, should be checked on this list.
• Have 65 points or more**
• Have Competent English or higher

• Have at least 1 year’s skilled employment experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related occupation. Only work experience declared as related to your nominated occupation on your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Australian Department of Home Affairs will be considered. You must still be employed in your nominated occupation (or a closely related occupation) at the time you are invited and nominated.

• Must commit to living and working in regional Queensland for 3 years from date your visa is granted.

 
Pathway 3 – 491 – Building and construction workers

Major infrastructure projects and events, like the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, means there are opportunities across QLD for skilled building and construction workers.

This pathway is for builders, tradespeople or construction workers

To be considered for Queensland nomination, you will need to meet the requirements of both the Australian Department of Home Affairs and Migration Queensland for your chosen visa. 

QLD prefer applicants to apply for the 190 under this pathway, but if you are unable to meet the 190 requirements, the subclass 491 visa will be considered.  

Requirements include:

• Have an occupation on the Queensland Onshore Skills List that is indicated as included in the building and construction workforce pathway.

• Have 65 points or more**
• Have Competent English or higher
• Work experience:

• Immediately before registering your interest in Queensland nomination, you have been living and working in Queensland for the past 3 months.
• This work experience must be:
  • After you completed your qualification
  • In an occupation that has the same first 3 digits in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations(ANZSCO) code as your nominated occupation
  • At least 20 hours per week.
  • You must still be in a role that meets the above requirements when you submit your ROI, when you are selected for invitation, and when you are nominated
  • Casual work is accepted
  • Multiple eligible jobs can be combined to meet requirements
  • Work from home is allowed, where your employer has a physical presence in Queensland.

• Must commit to living and working in regional Queensland for 3 years from date your visa is granted.

 
Pathway 4 – 491 -Queensland Graduates

This pathway is for international graduates who have a Queensland bachelor degree, master’s degree or PhD, and relevant work experience.

Requirements include:

• Have an occupation on the Queensland Onshore Skills List.
• Have 65 points or more**
• Have Competent English or higher
• Qualification/study – you have:
  • A Bachelor Degree, Master’s Degree or PhD from a Queensland university or tertiary institute that meets the Australian Study Requirement
  • Completed 100% of this qualification in Queensland 
  • Graduated after 1 July 2021.
  • Your Queensland degree does not have to be related to your nominated occupation.
• Work experience:
  • Immediately before registering your interest in Queensland nomination, you have been living and working in:
  • Regional Queensland for the past 6 months for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
•  This work experience must be:
  • After you completed your qualification
  • At least 20 hours per week.
  • Candidates who meet the Queensland university graduate requirements may be working in any Skill Level 1 occupation.
  • You must still be in a role that meets the above requirements when you submit your ROI, when you are selected for invitation, and when you are nominated
  • Casual work is accepted
  • Multiple eligible jobs can be combined to meet requirements
  • Work from home is allowed, where your employer has a physical presence in Queensland.
• Must commit to living and working in regional Queensland for 3 years from date your visa is granted.

 
Pathway 5 – 491 – Small Business Owners

Subclass 491 Small Business Owners program will close from 19 September:

• businesses purchased or started after 19 September 2025 will not be eligible
• businesses purchased or started before 19 September 2025 may still be invited to apply.

There are two pathways you can choose under this stream. They are:

1. Business purchase

• To be eligible for Pathway 1, you must purchase an existing registered business outside of South East Queensland for a minimum of $100,000 and employ at least 1 Australian resident. 

1. Business start-up

• you must have started your own business and have continuously run that business for a minimum of 2 years. 
• Only submit your Registration of Interest (ROI) once your business is generating a profit and has a turnover of at least $200,000 in the twelve months prior to submitting. 

As this is a complex pathway, please contact us if you believe you meet the below. We will then assess your suitability.

Subclass 190- Skilled Nominated Visa 

This is a permanent visa and allows you to live and work in Australia.

After registering an EOI and ROI with the state, you may then be invited to apply for the subclass 190 visa.

There are four streams available for this subclass in Queensland. These include:

1. Skilled Workers (in Queensland)- this stream is for skilled workers currently employed in Queensland, helping to fill priority skills gaps
2. Skilled Workers (offshore)- this stream is for skilled workers outside of Australia who can contribute to Queensland’s strongest skilled workforce needs
3. Building and construction workers – this steam is to assist with major infrastructure projects and events.  
4. Queensland Graduates– this stream is for international graduates who have an eligible qualification from a Queensland university and are currently employed, helping to fill priority skills gaps

The 190 pathways follows the same requirements as the 491 (see above) however:

• For pathway 1 – skilled workers (in QLD) and pathway 4 Queensland Graduates:
  • immediately before registering your interest in Queensland nomination, you have been living and working in  Queensland for the past 9 months for the Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190).
• You must commit to continue living and working in Queensland until at least 2 years after the date your Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190) is granted.
• If you have applied for, or are a current holder of, a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), you are not eligible for nomination for the Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190). This restriction also applies to the Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489).

The above is a guidance only as States are prone to change requirements without informing us. Please contact us if you are considering applying.

* A skills assessment is conducted by a relevant authority of your nominated occupation. The list of these authorities can be found here. We can assist you in determining the relevant authority and help you receive a positive outcome upon your skills assessment.

**The Department of Home Affairs website also has a points calculator here. The friendly team at Hammond Migration can also assist you in determining which points may be available to you.

Allocation:

The Northern Territory has been allocated 1650 places, divided as follows:

• 850 places for the 190 visa
• 800 places for the 491 visa

Key Features:

Australia’s Northern Territory (NT) Government can nominate you for a skilled visa if you:

• meet Australian Government’s standard requirements, and
• meet NT Government’s nomination eligibility, and
• commit to living and working in the Territory within your skilled occupation for at least three years upon the grant of your visa.
• Demonstrate financial capacity to resettle and live in the Northern Territory. Financial capacity requirements are outlined here
• An EOI and a NT Government visa nomination (similar to a registration of interest) is required to be considered
• Offshore applicants will generally only be nominated for a subclass 491 visa.

The NT Government will consider your employment prospects in the NT and whether they meet the needs of NT industries when making a decision to offer you a nomination.

Eligibility:

To be eligible to apply for nomination, you must: 

• Satisfy the requirements on Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
• Be under aged 45 years at the time of nomination.
• Obtain full positive skills assessment
• Have a minimum English language test result of ‘Competent’
• Obtain 65 points or higher in the skilled migration points teston the Department of Home Affairs website.

If you satisfy these initial requirements set out by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, you may then be able to apply under the following Northern Territory specific streams.  

Onshore Graduate Stream:

Under this stream, both Subclass 190 and 491 applications require:

• Full-time study in the Northern Territory at an NT-based institution for at least 2 years
• Genuine and sustained efforts to find employment in your nominated occupation (or a closely related skilled occupation) in the NT

Subclass 190 specific requirements include:

• You must have lived in the NT for at least 6 continuous months immediately after completing your studies while holding a subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa (or its bridging visa).
• If you studied entirely in the NT and cannot apply for a 485 visa only due to age, the 6-month post-study residence requirement does not apply.

Subclass 491 specific requirements include:

• You must show efforts and progress both during and after your studies to gain employment in your nominated occupation.

Unlike the 191, there is no post-study residence requirement nor is there a Subclass 485 condition attached.

Onshore non-Graduate Stream:

Under this stream, both Subclass 190 and 491 applications require:

• Majority of duties must align with skills required for the nominated occupation.
• Your job must also be available for at least another 12 months after application
• Employer must have been operating in the NT for at least 12 months, position must be based in the NT, and market salary must be paid.
• Any migrating dependants must also be living in the NT

Subclass 190 specific requirements include:

• You must have lived in the NT for at least 2 consecutive years immediately before applying.
• Must show full-time employment in the NT in your nominated or related occupation for at least 2 years immediately prior to applying.

Subclass 491 specific requirements include:

• Must have lived in the NT for at least 12 consecutive months immediately before applying.
• Must show full-time employment in the NT in your nominated or related occupation for at least 6 consecutive months immediately prior to applying.

The Subclass 190 nomination is for long-term NT residents who have lived and worked full-time in the NT for 2 years.

The Subclass 491 nomination is designed for those who have lived and worked in the NT for at least 12 months and 6 months respectively, making it a more accessible stepping stone toward permanent residency.

Offshore applicant requirements:

Offshore applicants will generally only be nominated for a subclass 491 visa.

Offshore applicants must meet the minimum requirements above and meet the following NT nomination criteria:

• have post-qualification work experience of at least 2 years in your nominated occupation in the last 5 years (note: additional work experience may be required for some occupations under the priority occupations stream)
• demonstrate a genuine commitment to live and work in the NT on a long-term basis
• declare that they have the financial capacity to settle in the NT

If this initial criteria is met, offshore applicants may then apply through the following offshore streams.

Priority occupation stream

Offshore applicants under this stream must:

• Have a full migration skills assessment in an occupation listed on the Northern Territory Offshore Migration Occupations List (NTOMOL)
• Meet any additional work experience required for the occupation as specified on the NTOMOL.

NT family stream

Offshore applicants under this stream must:

• have a family member in the NT who:
  • is an Australian citizen, an Australian permanent resident, an eligible New Zealand citizen (see definition on Home Affairs website) or hold one of the following visas:
    • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) subclass 491 visa
    • Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) subclass 494 visa
    • Skilled Regional (Provisional) subclass 489 visa
    • a bridging visa granted in association with an application for a Skilled Regional subclass 887 visa or Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) subclass 191 visa
  • is usually resident in the NT, and has been living in the NT for at least 12 months
  • is the applicant’s eligible relative* or their partner’s eligible relative if their partner is also intending to apply for the same vis

NT job offer stream

Offshore applicants under this stream must have a verifiable job offer in their nominated occupation for a job that is based in the NT with an NT business/organisation that has been actively operating in the NT for at least 12 months.

Allocation

The ACT has been allocated 1600 places, divided as follows:

• 800 places for the 190 visa
• 800 places for the 491 visa

Key features

• If you have registered your Expression of Interest with the ACT government, you may then be invited to apply for nomination. It is only with this invitation that you may then apply for the visa.
• ACT also requires you to register your interest visa the ‘Canberra Matrix’. The Matrix is how the ACT orders applicants by their points and eligibility when determining which applicants will receive an invitation. You can check your points and score against the Canberra Matrix here.

• One Nomination Place per Person Policy

• • If you are successfully nominated for a 491 or 190 visa, you cannot apply for another ACT nomination place. 
• Residency requirements are outlined as follows:

• Canberra residents

• • ACT 491 nomination: to follow this pathway, you must be living and working in Canberra for at least three months.
  • ACT 190 nomination: to follow this pathway, you must be living and working in Canberra for at least six months.

• Overseas applicants

• • ACT 491 nomination: to follow this pathway, you must have at least one year relevant experience in your nominated occupation
  • ACT 190 nomination: to follow this pathway, you must have at least three years relevant experience in your nominated occupation.
  • You cannot apply under this pathway if you are living in Australia.

• Doctorate Streamlined nomination
  • To follow this pathway, you must meet the following criteria
    • Canberra resident: you are living in Canberra, and you completed a research or professional Doctoral degree at an ACT university.
    • Interstate / overseas applicant: you were awarded a research or professional Doctoral degree from an ACT university within the last two years.
    • You cannot apply under this pathway if you did not study at an ACT university.

Subclass 491- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa 

There are two streams under which you may be eligible to apply for the 491 visa in Canberra. This includes:

• Canberra resident applicant; or
• Overseas applicant

  491 Nomination – Canberra resident applicant eligibility

• ACT Resident Pathway: you must meet one of the following:
  • Your nominated occupation is on the latest ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List;
  • You are the primary holder of a subclass 457/482 visa sponsored by an ACT employer. You must have worked in Canberra in your nominated occupation for your sponsoring ACT employer as the holder of a 457/482 visa for the last six months. Your nominated occupation does not have to be on the ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List if it is on the relevant Department of Home Affairs Skilled Occupation List.
  • You are the majority owner of an eligible registered business located in the ACT and you are claiming Matrix points in the Small Business Owner category. Your nominated occupation does not have to be on the ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List if it is on the relevant Department of Home Affairs Skilled Occupation List.
    • The following business types are not eligible: sub tenancy, ride-share, taxi, delivery, courier services, or an on-sold business previously used to qualify for ACT nomination.
• Residence in Canberra: you lived in Canberra for at least three months at date of Canberra Matrix submission and continue to do so until the date of invitation. Your bank statements / transaction history must record ACT banking activity for this period. You may also live within a 30-minute commuting distance in NSW e.g., Queanbeyan, Jerrabomberra, and Googong.
• Employment in Canberra: You worked in Canberra for at least 13 weeks. You can work for more than one employer, be self-employed, and/or be a Small Business Owner. Employment types can be combined, provided you meet the criteria for each and that you meet the overall hourly or earnings requirements as expressed. Further details regarding employment is available here
• Commitment to Canberra: You must sign a declaration committing to living and working in Canberra while your visa is processed and for at least two years from date of visa grant.
• If you have a Spouse / Partner, they must be a resident in Canberra for at least three months or living overseas.

491 Nomination – Overseas applicant eligibility

Requirements include:

• You must have a valid English test demonstrating competency or higher in English; and
• Nominated occupation: your nominated occupation is on the latest ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List.
• Relevant overseas work experience: you have at least one year full time, post graduate work experience in your nominated occupation in the last five years. The work experience must be assessed as relevant by the assessing body in your points tested skill assessment (if the points advice service is provided by the assessing body).
  • Your skills and experience in the nominated occupation are relevant to the ACT economy.
  • If required, you hold the relevant Australian registration or licence for your nominated occupation.
• ACT employability: you have researched the ACT labour market and you are satisfied that you are employable in Canberra and that your background is relevant to the ACT economy. 
• Commitment to Canberra: you have researched Canberra and you are committed to living in the ACT. You must provide a commitment statement to the application, explaining in your own words why you want to live in Canberra.
• Residency: you and any migrating dependents (except children enrolled at school in the ACT):
  • are living overseas.
  • have not lived in Australia for the last 12 months.
  • do not hold a current Australian visa (or bridging visa) with the exception of an Australian visitor visa.
• Settlement funds: you have access to sufficient money to fund your migration and settlement in Canberra.
• If you have a Spouse / Partner and you wish to claim Canberra Matrix points in a spouse or partner category:
  • You must have proof of the relationship and that you are married/in a de facto relationship
  • When claiming Matrix points in the spouse / partner employment category, they must meet the Department of Home Affairs requirement for ‘competent’ English; or hold an Australian passport.

Subclass 190- Skilled Nominated Visa 

There are two streams under which you may be eligible to apply for the 190 visa in Canberra. This includes:

• Canberra resident applicant; or
• Overseas applicant

190 Nomination – Canberra resident applicant eligibility

Requirements include:

• You must have a valid English test demonstrating ‘proficient’ or ‘superior’ English skills (exceptions apply for Chefs or ANZSCO occupations with ANZSCO skill level 3 to 5; and
• Your nominated occupation is on the latest ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List;
• Residence in Canberra: you lived in Canberra for at least six months at date of Canberra Matrix submission and continue to do so until the date of invitation.  
• Employment in Canberra: You worked in Canberra for at least 26 weeks. You can work for more than one employer, be self-employed, and/or be a Small Business Owner. Employment types can be combined, provided you meet the criteria for each and that you meet the overall hourly or earnings requirements as expressed below. Further employment details available here
• Commitment to Canberra: You must sign a declaration committing to living and working in Canberra while your visa is processed and for at least two years from date of visa grant.
• If you have a Spouse / Partner and you wish to claim Canberra Matrix points in a spouse or partner category:
  • You must have proof of the relationship and that you are married/in a de facto relationship
  • When claiming Matrix points in the spouse / partner employment category, they must meet the Department of Home Affairs requirement for ‘competent’ English; or hold an Australian passport.

190 Nomination – Overseas applicant eligibility

Requirements include:

• You must have a valid English test demonstrating ‘proficient’ or ‘superior’ English skills (exceptions apply for Chefs or ANZSCO occupations with skill levels 3 to 5); and
• Nominated occupation: your nominated occupation is on the latest ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List.
• You have at least three years full time relevant work experience post graduate work experience in your nominated occupation in the last five years.
• You must provide a statement and evidence of research of how your employability in Canberra based on the current labour market and contributions to the ACT economy.
• You must not have lived in Australia for within the last twelve months of your application or hold a current Australian visa (or bridging visa) other than a visitor visa.
• You have evidence of sufficient funds to facilitate your migration to Australia.