Maximizing Your Chances for State Nomination under the 190 or 491 Visa Programs in Australia

Australia's skilled migration program is one of the most popular pathways for skilled professionals looking to live and work in the country permanently. The State Nomination programs for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) offer excellent opportunities for individuals to achieve permanent residency (PR) or a pathway to PR while contributing to the growth of specific states and regions. However, the process can be competitive, and understanding how to increase your chances of success is crucial.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key steps individuals can take to maximize their chances of securing state nomination under the 190 or 491 visa programs and how Aussizz Group can support you through the entire process.

What are the 190 and 491 Visa Programs?

Before we dive into strategies, let’s briefly explain the difference between the two visas.

• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): This visa allows skilled workers nominated by an Australian state or territory to live and work permanently in Australia. It’s a permanent visa, meaning successful applicants can remain in Australia indefinitely.
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): This is a provisional visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia for up to 5 years. After three years of living and working in a regional area, visa holders can apply for permanent residency through the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (Subclass 191).

Both visas require state nomination, meaning that a particular state or territory must select you based on your occupation and qualifications.

Key Steps to Maximize Your Chances of Securing a State Nomination

1. Choose the Right Occupation

Your nominated occupation is one of the most critical factors in securing a state nomination. Each Australian state and territory publishes a list of occupations they are willing to sponsor for the 190 or 491 visas. Ensuring that your occupation is on the state-specific skilled occupation list for your desired state is the first step.

Tips for Success:

• Regularly check the skilled occupation lists for different states and territories to ensure your occupation is in demand.
• Some states have different requirements for the 190 and 491 visas, so ensure your occupation aligns with your visa of choice.
• If your occupation isn’t on the list for one state, consider applying for a different state or regional area where your occupation is in demand.

2. Meet the Minimum Points Requirement

Both the 190 and 491 visa programs operate under a points-based system, where you earn points based on factors such as age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and more. States often have their own point thresholds, so ensure you meet or exceed the minimum points required.

Tips for Success:

• Aim to score higher than the minimum 65 points required by the Department of Home Affairs to improve your chances.
• Consider improving your English language score or gaining additional work experience to increase your points.
• Completing Australian study, having a partner with skills, or obtaining professional qualifications can also boost your score.

3. Demonstrate a Commitment to Your Desired State

States and territories prefer applicants who are committed to living and working in their region. Demonstrating that you are genuinely interested in settling in a particular state or regional area can enhance your chances of nomination.

Tips for Success:

• Provide evidence of your ties to the state, such as employment, family, or education.
• If possible, spend time in the state or region you’re applying to, as some states prioritize applicants who are already living or working in their region.
• Be prepared to explain in your application why you want to live and work in that specific state.

4. Ensure Your Skills Assessment is Current

A skills assessment is a mandatory requirement for the 190 and 491 visas. Your skills assessment verifies that your qualifications and work experience match the standards set by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.

Tips for Success:

• Ensure your skills assessment is up-to-date and reflects your most recent qualifications and work experience.
• Carefully follow the instructions from your assessing authority to avoid delays in processing.
• Keep an eye on expiration dates—some skills assessments are only valid for a certain period.

5. Stay Informed About State-Specific Criteria

Each state and territory in Australia has different criteria for nomination under the 190 or 491 visa programs. Some states may prioritize applicants with specific qualifications or work experience, while others may have residency or employment requirements.

Tips for Success:

• Regularly check the websites of the states and territories to stay updated on their specific criteria and nomination guidelines.
• Sign up for state migration newsletters or alerts to be informed of any changes or updates.
• Some states require applicants to submit an expression of interest (EOI) through SkillSelect before they are considered for nomination, so ensure you meet all deadlines.

6. Submit a Strong Expression of Interest (EOI)

Your EOI is your first opportunity to make a positive impression on the state or territory nominating bodies. Make sure your EOI is accurate, comprehensive, and highlights your strengths as an applicant.

Tips for Success:

• Accurately list your occupation, points score, and desired state in your EOI.
• Update your EOI regularly as your situation changes (e.g., improved points, updated work experience).
• Be honest in your EOI—misleading information could result in rejection or cancellation of your visa.

How Aussizz Group Can Help You Secure State Nomination

Navigating the state nomination process for the 190 or 491 visa programs can be complex and challenging. This is where Aussizz Group can assist you at every stage, ensuring that your application stands out to state nominating bodies and that you meet all necessary requirements.

Here’s how Aussizz Group can help:

1. Comprehensive Eligibility Assessment

We will assess your profile to determine your eligibility for the 190 and 491 visa programs. This includes evaluating your occupation, points score, and state nomination opportunities to help you identify the best path forward.

2. Occupation and Skills Assessment Support

We will guide you through the skills assessment process, ensuring your qualifications and experience are accurately presented to the relevant assessing authorities. Our migration experts are familiar with the requirements for different occupations and can help you avoid common mistakes.

3. State Nomination Advice

Each Australian state has its own nomination process and criteria. Aussizz Group will keep you informed about the latest state-specific requirements and help you tailor your application to meet those criteria.

4. EOI Preparation and Lodgement

We will assist you in preparing and lodging a strong Expression of Interest (EOI) through the SkillSelect system. Our team ensures that your EOI accurately reflects your qualifications, experience, and points score, maximizing your chances of being invited for state nomination.

5. Document Preparation and Visa Application

We will help you gather and submit all the required documents for both your state nomination and visa applications. Our team will ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time to avoid unnecessary delays.

6. Ongoing Support

At Aussizz Group, we provide ongoing support throughout the entire process, answering any questions you may have and addressing any issues that arise. Our migration agents are dedicated to helping you achieve your goal of securing state nomination and a skilled migration visa.

Conclusion

Securing a state nomination under the 190 or 491 visa programs is a fantastic opportunity for skilled individuals looking to live and work in Australia. By following the key steps outlined in this blog—choosing the right occupation, meeting the points requirement, demonstrating commitment to your desired state, staying informed about state-specific criteria, and submitting a strong EOI—you can significantly improve your chances of success.

With the support of Aussizz Group, you can navigate the complexities of the visa and state nomination process with confidence. Our experienced migration agents are here to guide you every step of the way, from eligibility assessment to final visa approval.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey towards living and working in Australia, contact Aussizz Group today for expert advice and personalized assistance.

www.aussizzgroup.com