State nomination lets a state or territory invite you for Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) or Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491), as Nanak Migration Group, a registered migration agent (MARN 2619467), explains. Most programs still expect a skills assessment and a competitive points test score within the skilled migration framework.
State and Territory Nomination Overview
The table below provides a general guide to what each jurisdiction typically looks for. Criteria, occupations, and availability change regularly — check each state's current website before applying.
General guide only. Each jurisdiction publishes its own current occupation lists, criteria, and application processes — these take precedence.
190 Nomination vs 491 Nomination
Both the 190 and 491 visas involve a form of nomination, but they differ significantly in visa type, obligations, and the points bonus they provide.
Indicative guide only. Confirm current legislative requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.
Commitment to the Nominating State
Accepting a state or territory nomination — and being granted a visa on that basis — carries real obligations. Understanding these before you apply is important.
If you hold the subclass 190 visa, you are generally required to live and work in the nominating state or territory for two years from the date of visa grant. This is a legislative obligation, not merely an expectation. Failing to comply may affect eligibility for citizenship.
The 491 visa requires you to live, work, and study only in a designated regional area throughout the five-year provisional visa period. This condition applies to your family members who hold a secondary 491 visa as well. Meeting this condition is also required before applying for the permanent 191 visa.
Receiving state nomination confirms the state considers you suitable under its current criteria. It does not mean the state will support you through the visa process or provide employment. The federal Department of Home Affairs assesses the actual visa application independently.
The Department of Home Affairs and the states both take commitment requirements seriously. Applicants who obtain nomination and then relocate elsewhere may face consequences for future applications, including citizenship. Consider your genuine intention to live in the nominating jurisdiction before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
This information is general in nature and does not constitute immigration assistance or legal advice for any individual situation. Requirements including occupation lists, fees and processing criteria change without notice.
Nanak Migration Group Pty Ltd makes no representation that information on this site is complete, current or applicable to your circumstances. Nothing here guarantees, implies or represents any visa outcome, approval likelihood or processing time.
Obtain advice tailored to your situation from a registered migration agent or Australian legal practitioner. Navpreet Aulakh, MARN 2619467, is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority.
State and territory nomination criteria, occupation lists, and program availability change frequently and may differ from the general guide provided on this page. Always check the current published requirements on each jurisdiction's official skilled migration website. Requirements are subject to change without notice.
Information current as at July 2026. Verify all requirements with the Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) before lodging any application.