Top Visa Options for Skilled Workers in Australia

If you are considering migrating to Australia and securing Permanent Residency (PR), the state or territory you target can make a huge difference. This detailed resource will guide you on which Australian states currently offer the easiest PR pathways, how these state-nominated visas work, and what to consider before applying. We’ll cover key policies, popular professions, costs, timelines, and common questions to help you make an informed decision for you and your family or those you support.

Understanding State-Nominated PR Pathways in Australia

Australia’s migration system includes state-nominated visa subclasses—primarily the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491). These visas allow Australian states and territories to nominate applicants whose occupations and qualifications meet their specific economic and regional needs.

Why State Nomination Matters

• More Opportunities: Some occupations rarely make the national lists but are sought in specific states—for example, teachers in the Northern Territory or engineers in South Australia.
• Lower Points Required: State nomination usually adds points (currently 5 or 15) towards the points-tested General Skilled Migration (GSM) system, increasing your chances of invitation.
• Easier Pathways Outside Major Cities: Many regions outside Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have relatively lower thresholds and demand fewer points due to population and skills shortages.

Which States Offer the Easiest PR Pathways?

Key Criteria: What Makes a State "Easier"?

• Broad occupation lists
• Lower points thresholds
• Frequent invitation rounds
• Flexibility for international graduates or offshore applicants
• Lower work experience or English language requirements

Current Landscape (2024)

1. South Australia (SA)

South Australia continues to be a favorite among migrants aiming for PR due to a broad occupation list, including many 'open' roles, and pathways for graduates and offshore applicants.

• Occupation List: Over 500 occupations, more inclusive than many other states.
• International Graduates: Special streams for those studying in SA.
• Regional Incentives: Significant concessions for working/living in designated regions.
• Offshore Applicants Accepted: Regular offshore invitations.

2. Tasmania

Tasmania is renowned for relatively accessible PR opportunities, especially for those who have studied or worked in the state.

• Graduate Pathway: Favorable options for recent Tasmanian graduates.
• Employment Pathway: Lower work experience requirements (as little as six months).
• Broad List: Accepts a wide range of occupations, including less-popular roles.
• Small Population: Aggressive targets to attract skilled migrants.

3. Northern Territory (NT)

NT is less populated and needs a broad skill base. It welcomes applicants with relevant or closely related skills and has more lenient conditions for those already living in NT.

• Temporary Residence Pathway: Favors those who have established themselves locally.
• Regional Incentives: Encourages offshore applications in hard-to-fill occupations.
• Skilled Occupation List: Covers a diverse range of fields.

4. Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

While Canberra remains competitive, it offers multiple avenues (Matrix points system) and special provisions for skilled workers and international graduates.

• ACT Matrix: Points-based nomination system—transparent and predictable.
• Graduate Friendly: Recognizes ACT study and work experience.
• Flexible Occupation List: Updated regularly, reflecting local needs.

5. Queensland (Regional)

While metro Queensland is competitive, regional applicants (outside Brisbane) enjoy more accessible PR with dedicated lists for teachers, nurses, trades, and engineers.

More Challenging States

• New South Wales (NSW): Highly competitive, highest points required due to Sydney’s popularity and limited occupation lists.
• Victoria: Focuses on priority sectors, limited places and competitive selection.

How the State Nomination Process Works

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect (Australian government system).
2. Select the State/Territory for nomination based on your occupation and eligibility.
3. Meet State Requirements: Each has its own criteria—residency, work experience, offer of employment, or local study.
4. Receive Nomination: The state reviews your application and nominates you if you meet the criteria.
5. Apply for Visa: On receiving a nomination, apply for the relevant subclass visa (e.g. 190, 491).
6. Processing and Grant: If successful, receive your PR or provisional visa (which can lead to PR).

Key Benefits and Features of State-Nominated Pathways

• Priority Processing: State-nominated visas often enjoy quicker processing times.
• Extra Points: State nomination grants significant points—improving EOI ranking.
• Broader Occupation Lists: States need skills that national programs may overlook.
• Regional Incentives: Some states provide unique concessions for regional applicants.

Common Professions and Who Usually Applies

• Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, allied health professionals (e.g., physiotherapists, radiographers).
• Engineering: Civil, mechanical, electrical, and mining engineers.
• Teaching: Early childhood, secondary teachers (especially in NT, QLD, SA).
• Trades: Chefs, electricians, carpenters, mechanics.
• IT and Software: Analysts, developers, network engineers.
• Accountants, Auditors, and finance professionals.
• Agriculture and Environmental Science: Especially in regional or less populated states.

Example: Real Scenario Lists

• Tasmania: Kitchenhand, Childcare Worker, Hospitality Manager.
• South Australia: Marketing Specialist, Civil Engineer, Registered Nurse, Secondary Teacher.
• Northern Territory: Chef, Mechanic, Midwife