Migrating to Australia can be a rewarding journey, and understanding the State Nomination Criteria for Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas is crucial. These visas provide a pathway for skilled workers to live and work in Australia, and being nominated by a state or territory government can significantly boost your application. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the criteria for state nomination, the process of applying, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you navigate this important step in your migration journey.
What is State Nomination?
State Nomination is a process where a state or territory government nominates an applicant for a skilled visa, adding points to your application (5 points for Subclass 190 and 15 points for Subclass 491). This nomination indicates that the state or territory recognizes your skills and potential contribution to their economy and community.
How to Apply for State Nomination?
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): First, lodge an EOI through the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) SkillSelect system. Ensure your occupation is on the state’s demand list and that you meet the specific requirements.
Invitation System and ROI: Most states use an invitation system where a Pre-Invite is sent to selected candidates. In some cases, you may need to make a Registration of Interest (ROI) application on the state government’s website or portal before your EOI is selected in the next state invitation round.
Monitor State Government Announcements: Keep an eye on state government websites and announcements for the opening of ROI applications and changes to occupation lists and nomination criteria.
Check State Criteria: Ensure in advance that you meet all the general criteria of the particular state and, in many cases, for your nominated occupation.
Respond to Pre-Invitation: Upon receiving a pre-invitation for state nomination, you will have a limited time of approximately two weeks to lodge your visa application.
Provide Detailed Information: Some states may ask you to provide information about the research you have done about living conditions and why you are choosing to migrate to that state. You may also need to prove that you have researched job availability matching your nominated occupation and your background.
Merit-Based Selection: States may pick and invite candidates based on occupations in demand, current job market trends, and merit. Your points, English proficiency, and years of experience all play a role in your selection.
Timely Preparation
If your occupation is currently in demand and you meet the criteria, it’s crucial to proceed promptly with your skills assessment and English test. The demand list and criteria can change, so being prepared ensures you can lodge your application as soon as your occupation becomes available.
How 360 Visas Can Help
At 360 Visas, we bring over 18 years of experience in handling State Nomination applications. As MARA-registered immigration consultants, we have a deep understanding of the complexities involved in the nomination process. Our expert Registered Migration Agents can assist you every step of the way, from evaluating your eligibility to guiding you through the application process.
Why Choose Us?
Expertise: Over 18 years of experience in state nomination applications.
MARA Registration: Our team is MARA-registered, ensuring professional and compliant advice.
Personalized Guidance: We provide tailored advice based on your unique circumstances.
Streamlined Process: We help you navigate the complex application process efficiently.
Book a consultation today with our expert Registered Migration Agent to check your eligibility and start your journey towards securing a state nomination.
State Nomination FAQs
1. How are the State Nominated Occupation Lists produced?
Occupations are selected based on a detailed analysis of current skill shortages and future demand, involving extensive industry consultation. Factors considered include workforce age, supply from local and international graduates, and interstate migration trends.
2. What are occupation ceiling/quota/planning levels?
Planning levels (quotas) limit the number of nominations for each occupation. Once the quota is met, that occupation may no longer be available for nomination unless special requirements for off-list nomination are met.
3. Do State Governments have additional requirements beyond those set by the DoHA?
Yes, each state/territory may have additional requirements for work experience, English proficiency, and other criteria. Applicants must meet both the DoHA and state-specific requirements to be nominated.
4. What is a Pre-Invite and how should I respond?
A Pre-Invite is an invitation from a state or territory to apply for nomination. You typically have around two weeks to respond and lodge your visa application. Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready.
5. What is an ROI and how does it affect my application?
A Registration of Interest (ROI) is an application you may need to submit to a state government before your EOI is selected. This helps states identify candidates who are serious about moving to their region.
6. How often do state demand lists and criteria change?
State demand lists and criteria can change frequently based on job market trends and state needs. It’s important to regularly check state government websites for updates.
7. What should I include in my research about living conditions in a state?
Include information about the cost of living, housing, job opportunities, community facilities, and lifestyle. Demonstrating thorough research can strengthen your application.
8. How do merit-based invitations work?
Merit-based invitations are issued based on a combination of factors, including your points score, English proficiency, work experience, and occupation demand. Higher scoring candidates are more likely to be invited.
9. What are the common reasons for a state nomination refusal?
Common reasons include not meeting the state-specific criteria, providing insufficient documentation, or not responding to a pre-invitation within the given timeframe. Ensuring you meet all requirements and deadlines is crucial.
10. Can I apply for state nomination if my occupation is not currently in demand?
Yes, you can still apply for state nomination if your occupation is not in demand at the moment, but it may be a longer wait. Stay informed about changes in the demand list and be prepared to apply when your occupation becomes available.
