The Australian migration landscape for the 2023-24 program year has undergone significant changes, particularly concerning the Subclasses 190 and 491 visa nominations offered by various States and Territories. As applicants seek opportunities to call Australia home, it’s crucial to stay informed about the status and eligibility criteria of these nomination programs. This article provides an overview of the current situation in each state or territory, as of 2023-24, and the new considerations applicants need to be aware of.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory presents a mixed picture for Subclasses 190 and 491 nominations. While they offer 400 places for the 491 visa, 250 places were allocated for the 190 visas however nominations for the 190 visa are currently not open. There are also new eligibility criteria to consider:
– Offshore applicants for the 491 visa are limited to 54 occupations from the new Offshore Migration Occupation List.
– NT residents must have worked in their nominated/related occupation for at least six months in the NT unless they have been working in a critical sector (health, aged care, disabled care, education and childcare, hospitality).
– NT graduates with a sc 485 visa valid until at least 1 July 2024 or eligible for such a visa are not eligible for nomination this year.
New South Wales
NSW is offering 2,650 places (2,650 for 190 and 1,500 for 491). The 491 visa program is currently not open. The invitations for the 190 visa are limited, with a focus on specific occupational sectors. The criteria and application process for the 491 visa are expected to be updated shortly.
Australian Capital Territory
The Australian Capital Territory offers 600 places for 190 visas and 600 for 491. The programme is open for both Subclass 190 and 491 nominations. The next invitation round will be held before 20 November 2023, providing applicants with an opportunity to explore options in the nation’s capital.
Western Australia
Western Australia has 1,500 places available for the 190 visa and 850 for the 491 visa. It’s important to note that WA state nominations lodged before 1 July 2023 will be assessed against the 2022-23 criteria, meaning those who apply early might have a slight advantage in this competitive landscape.
Tasmania
Tasmania offers 600 places for both the 190 and 491 visas. Applicants who submitted Registrations of Interest (ROIs) before 1 July 2023 will have their ROIs remain valid for the 2023-24 program year. However, new minimum eligibility requirements apply to ROIs and applications submitted from 5 July 2023.
Victoria
Victoria provides 2,700 places for the 190 visa and 600 places for the 491 visa. A significant change for the 491 visa program is that, to be eligible, onshore applicants must be living and working in regional VIC at the time of nomination. This change means that applicants who submitted ROIs in the 2022-23 year that were not invited will need to submit a new ROI if they are still eligible.
Queensland
Queensland is offering 900 places for the 190 visa and 650 places for the 491 visa. It is set to begin inviting selected applicants from the end of September 2023 and will hold invitation rounds at the end of each month throughout the financial year.
South Australia
South Australia provides 1,100 places for the 190 visa and 1,200 places for the 491 visa. SA will prioritize the retention of international graduates and temporary visa holders. Additionally, experienced overseas workers with skills in high-demand sectors such as trades, construction, defense, health, education, natural and physical science, and social and welfare professionals will be targeted.
Navigating the changing landscape of State and Territory nominations for Subclasses 190 and 491 in Australia’s 2023-24 program year can be a complex task. As the number of places and eligibility criteria vary significantly across regions, we strongly advise potential applicants to thoroughly research and understand the requirements of the specific state or territory they wish to apply to. Staying informed and adapting to these changes is essential when aspiring to make Australia your new home. Book an appointment today to find out your best pathway to Australian Permanent Residency.