State Nomination: Comparing 190 and 491 Pathways Across States

Understanding the Two Pathways

Before comparing states, it helps to understand the fundamental difference between the subclass 190 and 491 visas.

Subclass 190: Skilled Nominated Visa

The 190 is a permanent residence visa. You receive nomination from a state or territory, which adds five points to your SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI). Once granted, you can live and work anywhere in Australia, though most states expect you to live in their jurisdiction for at least two years.

Subclass 491: Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)

The 491 is a five-year provisional visa that requires you to live and work in a designated regional area of the nominating state. Nomination adds fifteen points to your EOI, making it an attractive option for applicants who do not quite reach the competitive threshold for a 190. After three years on the 491, you can apply for the permanent subclass 191 visa, provided you have met the income requirement of $53,900 per year (taxable income) for at least three years.

New South Wales (NSW)

NSW is the most competitive state for nomination, reflecting the fact that Sydney is the most popular destination for skilled migrants. The state operates an invitation-based system where candidates are ranked and selected from the pool.

For the 190, NSW tends to target applicants with very high points scores, typically 90 or above, in occupations that are in strong demand. The state publishes its own occupation list, which is generally narrower than the federal list.

For the 491, NSW nominates candidates for regional areas outside Sydney. Requirements are typically lower than for the 190, and the occupation list may include additional roles that are not available for the metro pathway. If you are open to living in Newcastle, Wollongong, or regional NSW, this can be an accessible pathway.

Victoria (VIC)

Victoria has traditionally been one of the more accessible states for nomination, though competition has increased in recent years. The state operates a registration-of-interest system and selects candidates based on a combination of points score, occupation, and Victorian connection.

Victoria places significant weight on candidates who are already living and working in the state. Having a Victorian employer, holding a current Victorian address, or having completed studies at a Victorian institution all strengthen your application. For the 190, minimum points requirements typically sit around 65 to 80, depending on the occupation.

The 491 pathway through Victoria covers designated regional areas outside Melbourne. The state has been expanding this pathway to attract skilled workers to areas experiencing labour shortages, particularly in healthcare, education, and trades.

Queensland (QLD)

Queensland offers both 190 and 491 nominations and has become increasingly popular as an alternative to the more competitive southern states. The Queensland skilled occupation list is generally broader than those of NSW and Victoria.

Queensland operates a two-tier system. Applicants working in Queensland or who have studied there receive priority processing and access to a wider list of occupations. Interstate and offshore applicants may still be eligible but face higher requirements and a more limited list.

The 491 pathway in Queensland covers a large geographic area, including the Gold Coast (which was reclassified as regional in 2019). This makes Queensland particularly attractive for applicants who want to live in a major urban area while still accessing the regional visa advantages.

South Australia (SA)

South Australia has consistently been one of the most welcoming states for skilled migrants and often has the broadest occupation list. The state actively targets both offshore applicants and those already in Australia and offers multiple pathways with varying requirements.

For the 190, South Australia typically requires applicants to have a job offer or to have been working in a skilled occupation in the state for a specified period. Points requirements are generally lower than in NSW or Victoria, making it an attractive option for applicants with moderate scores.

The 491 pathway in South Australia is particularly strong. The entire state outside metropolitan Adelaide is classified as regional, and even Adelaide itself offers various concessions. South Australia has been proactive in promoting regional migration and offers settlement support services to help new arrivals establish themselves.

Western Australia (WA)

Western Australia operates its own state nomination program with a focus on occupations that support its resource-driven economy. Mining, engineering, healthcare, and construction occupations feature prominently on the WA list.

The state has two main schedules for nomination. Schedule 1 covers occupations available to all eligible applicants, while Schedule 2 is restricted to applicants with a WA employer, WA qualification, or other specific connection to the state.

The 491 pathway in WA covers a vast regional area and is particularly suitable for applicants willing to work in mining regions, agricultural areas, or smaller towns. The state has been increasing its nomination allocations in response to strong economic growth and persistent labour shortages.

How to Choose the Right State

Selecting a state is not simply about picking the easiest option. Several factors should guide your decision.

Check Your Occupation

The first step is always to check whether your occupation is on the state's nomination list. Each state publishes its own list, and an occupation that is available in one state may not be available in another. Check lists directly on each state's migration website rather than relying on third-party sites that may be outdated.

Assess Your Points

If your points score is 90 or above, you are competitive for most states, including NSW. If your score is in the 65 to 80 range, consider South Australia, Queensland, or regional pathways in other states where the 491 adds fifteen extra points.

Consider Your Connection

States strongly prefer candidates who already have a connection to their jurisdiction. If you are currently studying or working in a particular state, that is almost always the best place to apply for nomination. Moving to a new state purely for nomination purposes can work, but it adds complexity and time.

Think About Lifestyle

You will need to live in the nominating state for at least two years (190) or three years (491). Consider the job market for your occupation, the cost of living, climate, community, and quality of life. A visa pathway is only valuable if you are happy living in the place it takes you.

Plan for the Long Term

If you choose the 491 pathway, remember that you will need to demonstrate a minimum income of $53,900 per year for three years to qualify for the permanent 191 visa. Ensure there are realistic employment opportunities in your occupation within the regional area you are moving to.

Practical Tips

• Apply to multiple states if eligible. There is no rule against submitting EOIs for more than one state, though you can only accept one nomination.
• Keep your EOI updated. If your circumstances change (new English score, additional work experience, change of address), update your EOI immediately. Outdated information can lead to missed invitations or refusals.
• Monitor invitation rounds. States publish data on recent invitation rounds, including minimum points and occupations selected. This data helps you gauge your competitiveness and decide where to focus your efforts.
• Engage with the state. Some states offer webinars, settlement support, and job-matching services. Engaging with these programs demonstrates commitment and can strengthen your nomination application.
• Seek professional advice. State nomination rules change frequently. A registered migration agent can help you identify the best pathway based on your current circumstances and keep you informed of changes as they happen.