Australia State Nomination for PR — Which State to Choose & How to Apply

Subclass 190 and 491 state nomination explained — requirements, points, and best states for Indians

Why it matters for Indians: Most Indian skilled migrants score 65–75 points on SkillSelect. The extra 5 or 15 points from state nomination can be the difference between receiving an invitation and waiting indefinitely for one.

Victoria (VIC) — Subclass 190

One of the most active states for skilled migration. Victoria has a wide occupation list including IT, engineering, healthcare, accounting, and construction. Requires a minimum EOI score of 65 (typically invites 80+). Does not generally require prior Victorian work experience for offshore applicants in high-demand occupations.

New South Wales (NSW) — Subclass 190

Sydney-based with competitive demand. NSW 190 typically requires 65–70+ points and a job offer OR skills in critical demand. The NSW Critical Skills list is updated frequently — IT, nursing, engineering, and trade occupations appear regularly.

South Australia (SA) — Subclass 190 & 491

One of the more accessible states for Indian migrants with lower competition. SA accepts applications from offshore applicants with 65+ points. The 491 program covers regional SA with additional leniency. Strong in healthcare, IT, and engineering occupations.

Tasmania (TAS) — Subclass 491

The most accessible state for offshore applicants. Tasmania 491 program is well-known for accepting applicants with 65–70 points without requiring Australian work experience. Ideal for applicants who cannot secure nominations from more competitive states.

Australia PR State Nomination (Subclass 190): Complete Guide

Australia's Subclass 190 State Nominated visa allows skilled workers to obtain permanent residency by securing a nomination from an Australian state or territory government. Nomination provides 5 additional points on the points test and significantly improves your chances of receiving an invitation.

How State Nomination Works

Each Australian state and territory runs its own skilled migration program. They publish occupation lists — the skills they are in demand for locally — and invite eligible applicants to apply for nomination. Being nominated does not guarantee a visa, but it strengthens your EOI and the 5 extra points can make the difference between being invited or waiting years.

Which Occupations Are Eligible for State Nomination?

Eligible occupations vary by state and are published on each state's skilled migration website. Generally, states target occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL). Check each state's current skilled occupation list — they change quarterly. Your occupation must also be on the approved list and have a positive skills assessment.

State-by-State Nomination Overview

Application Process for State Nomination

1. Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) on SkillSelect with State Nomination ticked for your target state(s).
2. Apply separately to the state's own skilled migration portal (most states have their own submission system).
3. Wait for the state to invite you. States pull EOIs based on points score, occupation priority, and available nomination places.
4. If nominated, update your SkillSelect EOI to reflect the nomination.
5. Receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs within the next invitation round.

Conditions of State Nomination

By accepting state nomination, you commit to living and working in the nominating state for at least 2 years. This is a legal obligation. While it is not strictly enforced after 2 years, DIBP can investigate recent nominees who move states immediately after the visa is granted.

Points Required for Subclass 190 Invitations

State invited candidates need state nomination + sufficient SkillSelect points. With nomination (65+ base points), many state streams have been inviting at 65–75 points. Use the Australia PR points calculator to estimate your score, and review the complete Australia PR eligibility criteria.