The NSW State Nomination Program is Open for 2024-25!
If you’re a skilled worker looking to start a new life in New South Wales (NSW), exciting opportunities have just opened up! The NSW government has launched its skilled visa nomination program for the 2024-25 program year. With streamlined processes and important updates, the program offers more pathways for skilled migrants and their families to live and work in NSW.
Let’s break down the key changes and what they mean for potential applicants.
1. NSW Priority Sectors
This year, the NSW government’s nomination program is laser-focused on addressing skills shortages and supporting industries experiencing significant changes. The priority sectors for this year are:
- Construction (infrastructure and housing)
- Renewables (net zero and clean energy)
- Care Economy (aged care, disability services, early childhood education)
- Digital and Cyber (across all sectors)
- Education (particularly teachers)
- Agriculture and Agrifood
- Advanced Manufacturing
If you’re skilled in any of these sectors, NSW could be the perfect place for you!
2. Published Skills Lists
NSW has updated and published their skills lists for the year. The lists are now aligned with ANZSCO unit groups, with separate lists for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491). Keep in mind that not all occupations within these groups are eligible, so it’s crucial to check your occupation’s eligibility before proceeding with a skills assessment.
Find the complete lists here: NSW Skills Lists
3. Subclass 190 Invitation Rounds
Invitation rounds for NSW nomination for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) are set to begin soon and will occur regularly throughout the year. To increase your chances, ensure your SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) is up-to-date with valid supporting evidence for all your claims.
UPDATE: Some of our clients were invited on the day the program opened – 10 October 2024!
4. Subclass 491 Nomination Pathways
Pathways 1 and 3 for NSW nomination under the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) will be opening soon. The NSW government has also introduced a new Regional NSW Graduate Pathway (Pathway 3), allowing recent graduates from specific regional NSW institutions to apply directly for the subclass 491 visa.
If you qualify for Pathway 1, you may also benefit from a 10% concession on the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), making it easier to meet income requirements.
5. Simplified Skilled Employment Criteria
In an effort to simplify the process, NSW has removed previous restrictions on the types of employment you can claim in your EOI. NSW will now follow Home Affairs’ definition of skilled employment, so if you’re unsure about what employment to claim, it’s advisable to consult a migration agent.
6. Changes to EOI Submission
Another significant update: all valid EOIs that select NSW will be considered in invitation rounds. This removes the previous restriction around submitting EOIs in SkillSelect, making it easier for potential applicants to be noticed.
7. Application Fee Increase
There has been a minor adjustment to the application fee. It has increased to A$315 (plus GST if applying from within Australia), adjusted for CPI for the 2024-25 program year.
For more detailed information, including eligibility criteria for specific pathways and occupation eligibility, visit the NSW government’s official website or speak with one of our registered migration agent who can guide you through the process.
This could be your year to make NSW your new home!
Links:
- NSW Skills Lists: NSW Skills Lists
- Subclass 491 Visa Eligibility: 491 Visa Eligibility
