Australia State Nomination (Subclass 190 & 491) Updates 2026: Latest Rules, Eligibility & State Requirements
Australia continues to be one of the most popular destinations for skilled professionals seeking better career opportunities, a high quality of life, and a pathway to permanent residency. While many applicants aim for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), state-nominated visas remain one of the strongest pathways for eligible candidates.
With 2026 bringing updates to state nomination programs, applicants need to stay informed about changing eligibility criteria, occupation priorities, invitation trends, and nomination requirements across different Australian states and territories.
If you’re planning to apply for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) or the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491), this guide explains everything you need to know before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).
What Is Australia State Nomination?
Australia’s state nomination program allows Australian states and territories to nominate skilled professionals whose occupations are in demand within their region.
Unlike the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), state nomination requires support from an Australian state or territory government.
Receiving a state nomination can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for an Australian skilled visa.
Understanding Subclass 190 and Subclass 491
Although both visas require state or territory nomination, they offer different pathways.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Subclass 190 visa is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory.
Key Benefits
- Permanent residency from day one
- Live and work anywhere within your nominating state
- Access Medicare
- Sponsor eligible family members
- Apply for Australian citizenship when eligible
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
The Subclass 491 visa is a five-year provisional visa designed for skilled professionals willing to live and work in regional Australia.
After meeting residency and income requirements, visa holders may become eligible for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
Benefits
- Live, work and study in designated regional areas
- Five-year visa validity
- Priority processing in many cases
- Additional pathways to permanent residency
Latest Australia State Nomination Updates for 2026
Several Australian states have refined their nomination programs to better align with labour market demands. While requirements vary by state, common trends include:
Greater Focus on Priority Occupations
Many states continue prioritising professionals in sectors experiencing skill shortages, such as:
- Healthcare
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Construction
- Information Technology
- Education
- Social Work
- Cybersecurity
- Trades
- Agriculture
Applicants in these occupations may receive higher priority during invitation rounds.
Increased Preference for Skilled Professionals Already Working in Australia
Some states now place greater emphasis on applicants who:
- Are currently employed in the nominating state
- Have completed Australian qualifications
- Have regional work experience
- Have long-term employment offers
- Demonstrate commitment to living in the state
Regional Migration Continues to Grow
The Australian Government continues encouraging migration to regional areas.
Because of this, many states are expanding opportunities under the Subclass 491 program to support regional workforce needs.
Occupation Lists Are Regularly Updated
State occupation lists can change throughout the year based on labour market demand.
Applicants should always ensure their nominated occupation remains eligible before lodging their application.
Occupation Lists Are Regularly Updated
State occupation lists can change throughout the year based on labour market demand.
Applicants should always ensure their nominated occupation remains eligible before lodging their application.
Eligibility Criteria for State Nomination
Although each state has its own requirements, most applicants should meet the following criteria.
Basic Requirements
Applicants generally need:
- Age below 45 years
- Positive Skills Assessment
- Competent English language ability
- Eligible occupation
- Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted through SkillSelect
- Minimum required points
- Meet health and character requirements
Additional requirements vary by state.
Australia PR Points Requirement
Most skilled migration visas require applicants to score at least 65 points.
However, receiving an invitation often requires a much higher score depending on:
- Occupation
- State demand
- Invitation round
- Number of applicants
State nomination provides additional points.
Additional Points
Subclass 190
- 15 nomination points
Subclass 491
- 15 nomination points
These extra points can significantly improve your ranking in SkillSelect.
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State-by-State Nomination Overview
Every Australian state has its own nomination program.
New South Wales (NSW)
NSW remains one of Australia’s most competitive states.
Priority is often given to:
- Healthcare professionals
- Engineers
- ICT professionals
- Construction workers
- Teachers
Applicants may need:
- Strong points score
- Relevant work experience
- Occupation in demand
Victoria
Victoria continues supporting skilled migrants in priority sectors including:
- Health
- Digital Technology
- Education
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Construction
Competitive EOIs generally have higher points and relevant employment.
Queensland
Queensland regularly invites applicants with:
- Regional employment
- Queensland work experience
- In-demand occupations
The state encourages professionals willing to contribute to regional development.
South Australia
South Australia remains one of the most accessible states for skilled migrants.
It regularly supports:
- Graduates
- Offshore applicants
- Regional workers
- Skilled professionals across multiple industries
Western Australia
Western Australia continues experiencing demand in:
- Mining
- Engineering
- Healthcare
- Construction
- Trades
Applicants with local employment often receive priority.
Western Australia
Western Australia continues experiencing demand in:
- Mining
- Engineering
- Healthcare
- Construction
- Trades
Applicants with local employment often receive priority.
Tasmania
Tasmania offers several nomination pathways including:
- Local graduates
- Skilled employment
- Long-term residents
- Overseas applicants under selected streams
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
ACT uses the Canberra Matrix system.
Selection depends upon:
- Employment
- English proficiency
- Work experience
- Qualifications
- Commitment to Canberra
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory focuses on skilled professionals willing to contribute to regional workforce needs.
Priority sectors include:
- Healthcare
- Hospitality
- Construction
- Engineering
- Education
How to Apply for State Nomination
The process generally includes the following steps.
Step 1 : Check whether your occupation appears on the relevant state occupation list.
Step 2:Â Obtain a positive Skills Assessment.
Step 3 :Â Complete an approved English language test.
Step 4 : Calculate your migration points.
Step 5 : Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.
Step 6 : Apply for nomination with your preferred Australian state.
Step 7 :Â Receive nomination.
Step 8 : Apply for your Subclass 190 or 491 visa after receiving an invitation.
How New Land Visas Can Help
Applying for Australian skilled migration involves multiple stages, from selecting the right visa to preparing documentation and meeting state-specific requirements. A well-planned application can reduce errors and improve your chances of receiving an invitation.
At New Land Visas, our team helps applicants with:
- Profile assessment
- Australia PR eligibility evaluation
- Skills Assessment guidance
- EOI preparation
- State nomination strategy
- Document review
- Visa application support
Whether you are applying from India or overseas, we can help you understand the available pathways based on your qualifications, work experience, and long-term goals.
Stop Dreaming, Start Immigrating
Planning an international move can be confusing — our experienced immigration consultants are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you want a free assessment or a full application service, we’ll make the process clear and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)
1. What is the difference between Subclass 190 and Subclass 491?
The Subclass 190 visa grants permanent residency, while the Subclass 491 is a five-year provisional visa that can lead to permanent residency after meeting specific eligibility requirements.
2. How many points do I need for Australia State Nomination?
You must meet the minimum points requirement for skilled migration, but higher scores generally improve your chances of receiving an invitation. State nomination also provides additional points to strengthen your EOI.
3. Which Australian state is easiest for state nomination?
There is no single “easiest” state. Eligibility depends on your occupation, work experience, qualifications, and the specific nomination criteria of each state or territory.
4. Can I apply for Subclass 190 or 491 from outside Australia?
Yes. Many states consider offshore applicants, provided they meet the relevant eligibility requirements and their occupation is in demand.