New South Wales State Nomination Program 2024-2025

With a generous allocation of 5,000 places, the New South Wales state nomination program offers skilled migrants a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. Learn about eligibility requirements, pathways, and tips from a registered migration agent, for a successful application. Don’t miss this opportunity to build your career in the beautiful state of New South Wales.

New South Wales State Nomination Program 2024-25 for Skilled Migrants

New South Wales (NSW) has officially launched its Migration Programs for 2024-2025, which provides a pathway to permanent residency (subclass 190) and provisional residency (subclass 491) for eligible applicants.

This year, the Australian Government has announced a total of 5,000 places for NSW skilled visa nominations allocation, including:

• 3,000 places for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa
• 2,000 places for the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa

The 2024-25 New South Wales state nomination brings exciting news for skilled migrants, especially those holding subclass 491 visas. A new pathway has been introduced, making it easier to secure permanent residency in NSW.

Pathways of NSW Nomination 2024

The New South Wales (NSW) government offers skilled migrants the opportunity to live, work, and study in designated regional areas for 5 years through its nomination program for subclass 491 applicants. There are three primary pathways for NSW nomination:

• Pathway 1 – Direct Application – Work in Regional NSW.
• Pathway 2 – Invited by NSW (Priority occupations per the Regional NSW Skills List )
• Pathway 3 – Direct Application – Regional NSW Graduate

On the other hand, Skilled nominated visa applicants cannot directly apply for NSW nomination. Only one pathway for subclass 190 is to be invited to apply by Investment NSW.

Requirements for NSW Skilled Migration Nomination

Successful NSW state nomination applications require applicants to satisfy the eligibility criteria of both Home Affairs and NSW Investment. In addition, applicants should pay close attention to NSW’s specific EOI guidelines.

NSW Requirements

Pathway 1: Work in Regional NSW

This pathway is for those who already work for a regional employer in NSW. They can apply directly to Investment NSW for a nomination. This option is best for those with a solid work history in regional NSW and a confirmed job offer.

• Eligible Occupations: All occupations are eligible
• Work Requirement: Have worked for at least six months with a regional NSW-based employer in the nominated occupation or a closely related field.
• TSMIT: The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) applies at the time of nomination application. Some occupations may be eligible for a TSMIT concession.

Pathway 2: Invitation from Investment NSW

This pathway is highly competitive and involves being invited to apply for nomination by Investment NSW. Given the limited number of invitations available, it is strongly recommended that potential applicants explore other migration options on the Home Affairs website.

Pathway 3: Regional NSW Graduate (Direct Application)

This pathway is for recent graduates who have completed their studies in eligible occupations in regional NSW. It allows graduates to secure permanent residency in New South Wales while continuing to contribute to the region’s economic growth. Its requirements include:

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or research degree related to the nominated occupation.
• Study in Regional NSW: Must have studied in regional NSW for at least five points.
• Qualifying Period: Graduated within the past 24 months.
• Eligible Occupation: Restricted to the Regional NSW Skills List 2024-2025.
• Skills Assessment: Must have a valid skills assessment in an eligible occupation.

It is important to note that the NSW nomination program is subject to change, and applicants should carefully review the latest information and requirements before submitting their applications.

Expression of Interest (EOI) Requirements

When submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) for New South Wales state nomination, the applicant needs to meet the following requirements:

For the 2024 program, NSW has announced that all valid EOIs for NSW nominations will now be considered, simplifying the application process.

Process of NSW State Nomination 2024-2025

New South Wales state nomination for skilled migration involves several key steps:

• Meet Home Affairs Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs for the desired visa.
• Submit an EOI in SkillSelect: Express your interest in NSW nomination by submitting an EOI through the SkillSelect system.
• Invitation to Apply: If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for NSW nomination.
• Meet NSW Criteria: Fulfill the specific requirements set by the NSW government for state nomination.

There will be a $315 (plus GST) charge for the skilled nomination application fee. NSW will assess your application within six weeks and announce the results through your email.

Timeline of NSW State Nomination Migration Program 2024-25

The NSW State Nomination Migration Program 2024-25 is currently open for applications. The program was officially launched in September 2024, and further details will be shared through newsletters and updates on NSW’s official website.

Applicants can submit their EOI and other required documents at any time during the program’s open period from October 2024 to May 2025. The program will close once all the visa allocations for the NSW migration program 2024-025 are issued. According to the NSW website, the expected closing date will be June 2024.

The invitation rounds for the program will be held every 2-3 weeks, during which eligible applicants will be invited to apply for the visa.

NSW Occupation List and Target Sectors

The New South Wales (NSW) government offers state nominations for skilled migrants in occupations that are in high demand within the state. To be eligible for NSW state nomination, your occupation must be listed on either the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) or the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

NSW prioritizes the following key sectors for skilled migration:

• Health: doctors, nurses, allied health workers, and aged care workers.
• Education: teachers, lecturers, and education support staff.
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT): software developers, engineers, and cybersecurity experts.
• Infrastructure: roads, railways, and energy infrastructure, engineering, construction, and project management.

Tips to make a successful NSW State Nomination Application

While meeting the eligibility criteria is fundamental, there are some tips applicants can do to ensure a successful New South Wales state nomination application:

Avoid EOI Modifications

Once you receive an invitation to apply, refrain from making any changes to your SkillSelect EOI. Any modifications may lead to the rejection of your application.

Avoid Premature Employment Claims

Applicants are advised to only claim employment after receiving skilled recognition from NSW. Premature claims may impact or be inconsistent with the timing of your nomination application.

Provide Supporting Evidence

To ensure a successful application, the applicants need to carefully complete all forms, providing accurate and comprehensive details. You should support your claims with clear, legible, and up-to-date documentation.

Stay Informed

NSW currently hasn’t announced a specific date in their timeline. Therefore, applicants should regularly check the NSW government website for updates on guidelines, requirements, and any changes to the nomination process to avoid potential delays or rejections.

For personalized guidance about the NSW State Nomination Program for 2024-25, you can contact VEM now!

Mr. Peter Cao, a registered migration agent (MARN: 1577877, MIA: 12648), will assist you with tailored advice and the best possible pathway.

By: Peter Phong D Cao – Registered migration agent.

(MARN: 1577877, MIA: 12648)