The New South Wales (NSW) State Government has announced a significant shift in its approach for the 2024-25 Program Year. This year, NSW will publish occupation lists for the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas, simplifying the process and aligning more closely with the state’s economic needs. The updated lists will focus on critical sectors such as health, education, construction, and trade occupations, reflecting NSW’s strategic collaboration with key stakeholders. The first round of invitations for the Subclass 190 visa is scheduled for October, marking the start of this new, more targeted approach.
The NSW Skills Occupation List has just been released as of October 10, 2024. See the full list here.
Overview
![]() | Skilled Visas | – 3000 Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – 2000 Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) |
![]() | NSW Selection process of applicants | – Meet the Home Affairs’ eligibility criteria for the visa – Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect – Be invited to apply for nomination, or – Apply Directly for nomination (491 visa select pathways) – Meet the NSW criteria |
![]() | NSW Nomination Fees | – A fee of $315 (+GST) skilled nomination applications |
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – Invitation Only
Be invited to apply by Investment NSW
NSW Residency requirement, be either currently residing:
What’s New
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Pathway 1 (Direct Application) –Work In Regional NSW
Provisional visa up to 5 years
NSW Eligibility Criteria – Established work with a Regional NSW employer
What’s New
Pathway 2 (Invitation Only) – Eligible Occupations
Provisional visa up to 5 years
NSW Eligibility Criteria
What’s New
Pathway 3 (Direct Application) – Regional NSW Graduate
Provisional visa up to 5 years
Home Affairs Eligibility Criteria
Meet all visa requirements outlined by the Department of Home Affairs
NSW Eligibility Criteria
Pathway 3 – Applicants can apply directly
Summary of Changes 2024-25
ITEM/TOPIC | COMMENTS |
Subclass 491 – Pathway 1 | TSMIT applies at time of application TSMIT Concessions List for eligible occupations o Type 1 – 90% of TSMIT which meets Award requirement and the Annual Market Salary Rate o Type 2 – 90% of TSMIT with up to 10% of non-monetary component, total package equivalent to TSMIT Work in Regional NSW only, removed live in Regional NSW |
NSW Skills Lists | Re-introducing NSW Skills Lists that will be published at Unit Group All occupations within the Unit Group will be a priority skill and will be ranked within the unit group |
Subclass 491 – Pathway 3 | Regional NSW Graduate Pathway o Recent Graduates who have studied in regional NSW in an eligible occupation can apply for nomination |
Skilled Employment Definition | NSW will adopt the Dept of Home Affairs’ definition of Skilled Employment when assessing skilled employment |
Simplification | All valid EOIs for NSW will be considered |
If you’re considering applying for the Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) through NSW, focusing on priority sectors and ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria is crucial. Given the competitiveness, it’s wise to consider alternative pathways and seek professional advice to maximise your chances of success.
How Migration Downunder Can Assist You
We believe in straightforward advice, to get you the results. We will be honest with you about your prospects and what you need to do to improve your chance of selection and eventually achieve your visa.
Let us guide you to achieve your goal of living and working in Australia by finding the best pathway that suits your individual circumstances.
Before any immigration advice can be provided, we must hold an initial consultation which will attract a fee commencing from $385.