NSW Government Announces 2024-25 Skilled Migration Program: Key Updates
The New South Wales (NSW) Government has officially opened the Skilled Visa Nomination Program for the 2024-25 program year. With a focus on addressing critical skills shortages and boosting key industries, the updated program offers more streamlined processes and increased opportunities for skilled migrants and their families to build a future in NSW.
A Focus on Priority Sectors
The NSW Government is prioritizing key sectors to address both chronic and emerging skills shortages, particularly in industries undergoing structural changes. The seven priority sectors include:
- Construction: Infrastructure and housing development
- Renewables: Clean energy and net-zero initiatives
- Care Economy: Aged care, disability services, and early childhood education
- Digital and Cyber: Technology and cybersecurity roles across sectors
- Education: Primarily teachers
- Agriculture and Agrifood
- Advanced Manufacturing
These sectors play a vital role in the state’s economic growth and are where skilled migrants are needed most.
2024-25 NSW Skilled Occupation Lists
The NSW Government has published its Skilled Occupation Lists for the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491). These lists are based on ANZSCO unit groups, with specific occupations eligible for NSW nomination. It is important to confirm your occupation’s eligibility before proceeding with a skills assessment.
Invitation Rounds and Subclass 190 Visa
Invitation rounds for the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) are set to begin shortly. These rounds will continue until the allocation is filled, so it’s crucial to ensure that your SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) is up to date and that you have valid evidence for all your claims.
Opening Soon: NSW Nomination Pathways for Subclass 491 Visa
Two major pathways—Pathway 1 and Pathway 3—for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) will open soon. These pathways offer options for skilled workers looking to live and work in regional NSW. Be sure to review the eligibility criteria for both pathways before applying.
New Regional NSW Graduate Pathway
A new opportunity is now available for recent graduates from select regional NSW institutions under Pathway 3 for the subclass 491 visa. This direct application pathway provides a faster route for eligible graduates to secure NSW nomination.
TSMIT Concession for Subclass 491
Applicants in select occupations may qualify for a 10% concession on the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) under Pathway 1. This concession eases the income requirements, making it more accessible for skilled workers in targeted occupations.
Simplified Skilled Employment Criteria
The NSW Government has simplified the criteria for skilled employment, now aligning with the Home Affairs definition. This change removes previous restrictions on what employment can be claimed in an EOI. We highly recommend consulting with a registered migration agent to ensure that your employment history aligns with the new criteria.
Changes to EOI Submission
Another significant change is the removal of past restrictions around submitting EOIs in SkillSelect. As long as you have a valid EOI with NSW selected, it will be considered during invitation rounds. This makes it even more important to ensure that your EOI is complete and accurate.
Conclusion: How We Can Help
As an experienced immigration consultancy, we stay up-to-date with the latest changes to the NSW Skilled Migration Program. If you’re interested in applying for either the subclass 190 or subclass 491 visa, contact us today for a personalized eligibility consultation. We can guide you through the process and ensure you’re ready to make the move to NSW.
FAQs
- What sectors are prioritized for skilled migration in NSW? NSW is prioritizing sectors like construction, renewables, care economy, digital, education, agriculture, and advanced manufacturing.
- When will invitations for the subclass 190 visa begin? Invitation rounds will begin soon and continue until the allocated spots are filled.
- What is the TSMIT concession for the subclass 491 visa? The TSMIT concession allows a 10% reduction in the income threshold for select occupations under Pathway 1.
Book a Free Consultation
Ready to find out if you’re eligible for NSW migration? Contact our team today to schedule your consultation! Let’s explore your options for skilled migration to Australia.
