Introduction
For skilled migrants pursuing the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) or the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), state and territory nomination is not optional. It is a prerequisite. Each state and territory is allocated a specific number of nomination places each program year, and each sets its own eligibility criteria, occupation lists, and expression of interest (EOI) requirements. Understanding how state nomination allocations work, and how to position yourself competitively, is essential for anyone on a points-tested pathway.
What Are State and Territory Nomination Allocations?
Each year, the Australian Government sets the total Migration Program planning level and distributes nomination places to states and territories for use in the 190 and 491 visa programs. For the 2025–26 program year, the Government set a total of 20,350 state and territory nomination places (announced in November 2025).
The 2026–27 allocations are determined by the Australian Government through consultation with state and territory governments, and are typically announced mid-year. The precise allocation numbers for 2026–27 will be published on the Department of Home Affairs website once finalised. Skilled migrants should monitor both the DHA website and their target state or territory’s migration website for updates.
190 vs 491: Which Visa Category Is Your Nomination For?
The subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) visa is a permanent visa. It requires nomination from a state or territory government, and the nominated occupation must be on the relevant state’s skilled occupation list. Being nominated for a 190 adds five points to a SkillSelect points test score.
The subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visa is a provisional visa valid for five years. It is available for people nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated regional area. An occupation must be on the relevant regional occupation list. Being nominated for a 491 adds 15 points to a SkillSelect score. After meeting residence and income requirements in a regional area, 491 holders may apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) subclass 191 visa.
How Are Nomination Places Allocated?
The Department of Home Affairs allocates nomination places to states and territories based on their labour market needs and population distribution objectives. Some states prioritise specific industries, for example, healthcare, construction, technology, or agriculture, and release their nomination places in rounds throughout the year. Others maintain open nomination schedules. Importantly, allocations can run out. Once a state or territory exhausts its allocation for the program year, it typically closes nominations until the following year.
How Do You Apply for State Nomination?
The process begins with lodging an EOI in the Department of Home Affairs SkillSelect system, having your skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority, and ensuring your points score is competitive. You must then check the occupation lists and eligibility criteria for each state or territory you are interested in and lodge a separate expression of interest or direct application with that state or territory.
Each state and territory has its own requirements, which may include minimum points scores, English language requirements, offshore or onshore status, and occupation-specific conditions. Requirements can change without notice as states manage their allocation numbers.
Key Tips for Competitive Nomination
Research each state or territory’s current nomination criteria carefully and regularly, criteria change. Focus on states that have your occupation on their list and where you have a realistic chance of meeting the criteria. Points scores have generally been competitive in recent years; higher points scores may improve competitiveness in invitation rounds.
Consider regional pathways (491) seriously, regional nominations often have broader occupation lists and the 15-point bonus is significant. If you have family in a regional area, the family-sponsored 491 pathway may also be available.
Conclusion
State nomination is a competitive, allocation-limited process. Staying informed, having your documents ready, and submitting accurate EOIs are all essential. Monitor state government migration websites and the DHA website regularly as changes can occur throughout the year. If your situation is complex or you are unsure which state nomination pathway suits your occupation and circumstances, contact Migration Guru for tailored advice.
Contact Us
Phone: +61 7 3036 3800
Email: info@migrationguru.com.au
Website: migrationguru.com.au
