For skilled workers looking to live and work in New South Wales (NSW), the 190 and 491 visa programs offer excellent opportunities. If you’re an aspiring migrant, understanding the eligibility criteria and requirements for these visa streams is crucial to securing your place in Australia.
Recently, a document outlining the eligibility criteria for both the 190 and 491 visas in New South Wales has been circulating, and it’s official. Released by the Migration Institute of Australia, this information provides clarity for applicants in the 2024–2025 financial year.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the key points of these visa streams, explore the new changes for this year, and explain how to navigate the application process.
Key Points: NSW 190 Visa
The NSW 190 visa is a permanent state-nominated visa that allows you to live and work in New South Wales. This year, the state government has allocated 3,000 places for the 190 visa, making it a competitive yet rewarding pathway.
To be eligible for the 190 visa, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Australian government’s SkillSelect system. If your EOI is successful and you are selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for state nomination.
There are specific eligibility criteria for both onshore and offshore candidates:
- Onshore candidates: To qualify, you must have been living in New South Wales for at least six months before applying.
- Offshore candidates: Offshore candidates must have been living outside of Australia for at least six months to be eligible for nomination.
Priority Occupation List
In an exciting update for this financial year, NSW will reintroduce its priority occupation list. While the exact list has not yet been published, it will outline the occupations that are in high demand within the state. Being on this list can significantly increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for the 190 visa.
Given that NSW is home to a diverse economy with thriving industries in technology, healthcare, education, construction, and more, we can expect the priority list to reflect the state’s growing needs.
Key Points: NSW 491 Visa
The NSW 491 visa is a provisional state-nominated visa that allows you to live and work in designated regional areas of New South Wales. The 491 visa is designed to encourage skilled workers to settle in regional communities, providing a pathway to permanent residency after living and working in the region for a set period.
This year, 2,000 places have been allocated for the 491 visa. Similar to the 190 visa, applicants must submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and be invited to apply for nomination if selected.
Three Streams for the 491 Visa
A major update to the 491 visa program in New South Wales this year is the introduction of three distinct streams for applicants. These streams offer a targeted approach, ensuring that the state can fill skill shortages across regional areas more effectively.
Here’s a brief overview of the three streams:
Stream 1: Onshore Applicants
- This stream is for applicants who are currently living in New South Wales and have been residing in the state for at least six months.
Stream 2: Offshore Applicants
- If you are living outside of Australia, you may be eligible under this stream. Offshore applicants must have been living overseas for at least six months before applying.
Stream 3: Occupation-Based Nomination
- This stream focuses on applicants who work in occupations that are listed on the NSW priority occupation list. Once the list is published, you can verify whether your occupation is included.
These streams ensure that both onshore and offshore candidates have an equal chance of securing a place in the program, while also helping NSW meet its specific labour market needs.
How to Apply for the NSW 190 and 491 Visas
To apply for either the 190 or 491 visa, follow these steps:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): First, you need to lodge your EOI through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. Ensure that your EOI includes all relevant information, such as your skills, qualifications, and work experience.
- Wait for Invitation: If you meet the eligibility criteria and your occupation is in demand, you may be selected to apply for state nomination.
- Apply for Nomination: Once invited, you can submit your application for nomination to the New South Wales government. Be sure to include all required documentation and evidence of your eligibility.
- Visa Application: After receiving state nomination, you can proceed to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
With 3,000 places for the 190 visa and 2,000 places for the 491 visa in New South Wales this financial year, now is the perfect time to begin your journey towards permanent residency in Australia.
Make sure to keep an eye on the NSW priority occupation list, as this will play a significant role in determining your eligibility for nomination. Once the list is released, you can assess whether your occupation qualifies and tailor your EOI accordingly.
By understanding the changes to both visa programs and carefully following the application process, you’ll increase your chances of successfully securing a place in New South Wales.
Need Help?
Navigating the visa application process can be overwhelming. If you require expert guidance, our team of migration professionals is here to help. Book a complimentary consultation with NB Migration today, and let us assist you in making your Australian dream a reality!