State Nomination Visa - What is it? Am I Eligible for it?

You might have heard each state has recently released its own occupation list for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, which is the migration pathway that leads to permanent residency (PR). You may also wonder if you are suitable for this visa pathway. Let us break it down for you.

What is the State Nomination Program? 

The state nomination program is when Australian states and territories select skilled migrants to apply for specific visa categories. It is aimed at attracting skilled migrants to specific regions in need of their expertise. This nomination helps applicants meet the points threshold required for a visa and increases their chances of receiving an invitation to apply. 

Furthermore, the points system is integral to eligibility for state nomination and permanent residency. Points are awarded based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and English proficiency. By effectively maximizing their points, applicants can enhance their chances of receiving a nomination and successfully migrating to Australia.

Why Did the Department Create the State Nomination Visas? 

State and territory governments play a pivotal role in the nomination process, identifying skilled migrants who meet local labour market needs and are likely to settle successfully in their region.

  • State and Territory Role: Each Australian state and territory has its own skilled occupation lists and nomination criteria based on local labour market needs. 

  • Enhanced Visa Opportunities: State nomination can lead to additional points in the visa application process, improving the applicant’s eligibility. 

  • Regional Development: State and territory governments use the nomination to address specific regional skills shortages and support economic growth. 

What are the Visa Types under the Australian Skilled Migration Program? 

The Australian Skilled Migration Program is designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the country's economy. State nomination is an integral part of this program, particularly for applicants who may not meet the independent visa criteria. 

Visa Categories Involving State Nomination: 

 

What are the Benefits of State Nomination? 

  • Priority Processing: State-nominated visa applications often receive priority processing by the Department of Home Affairs. 

  • Additional Points: State nomination adds points to the applicant’s overall points score, improving their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for a visa. 

  • Access to Regional Opportunities: Nomination by a regional area can provide access to job opportunities and support networks in regions with skills shortages. 

What are the Differences Between State and Federal Nominations? 

There are some differences in how nominations are handled and what they offer applicants. 

State Nomination: 

  • Targeted Skills: State nominations are focused on meeting the specific needs of the nominating state or territory. 

  • Commitment to Region: Applicants nominated by a state or territory are generally expected to live and work in the nominating region for a specified period. 

  • Additional Points: State nomination provides additional points that are crucial for meeting the points threshold.

Federal Nomination: 

  • National Skills Needs: Federal nominations are based on Australia's overall skills needs without a focus on specific regions. 

  • No Regional Requirement: Federal nomination does not require the applicant to live in a specific region. 

  • Independent Visa: Federal nominations are typically linked to visas that do not require state nomination, such as the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) visa.

What are the Latest nominated Occupations for each state?

Each state-nominated occupation may vary, so we have compiled the latest occupations for 2024-2025 based on the most recent announcements from each state.

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help

The GSM program enables states and territories to nominate individuals whose skills align with local labour market requirements. If you want to know if you are eligible for any of the GSM program visas, have your points calculated accurately, or wish to seek professional advice and guidance, contact us at Agape Henry Crux. Our Accredited Specialist(s) in Immigration Law and our team of immigration lawyers are specialised in handling highly complex matters. You may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.  

We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.  

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.  

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