To obtain specific skilled migration visas that allow you to live and work in Western Australia, you must be nominated (or invited) by an Australian state or territory through the State Nominated Migration Program. WA Migration Services, on behalf of the WA State Government, provides State nomination for eligible applicants under two visa subclasses, which help increase points in the Department of Home Affairs points test:

• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – adds five extra points.
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) – adds 15 extra points.

Key Features of the 2024–25 Program

• No application fee for the state nomination.
• Equal opportunity ranking for candidates residing interstate and those applying from overseas.
• Priority invitations for occupations in sectors experiencing critical skill shortages, such as building and construction, healthcare, hospitality, and education.
• Reduced employment requirements for candidates invited through occupations listed in the WA building and construction sector.
• Additional employment contract arrangements available under the General Stream: WASMOL Schedule 1.

2024–25 Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for State nomination, your occupation must meet the criteria for one of the following streams:

1. General Stream

• A pathway available for a variety of occupations across different industry categories.
• Eligible occupations are listed on the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) Schedule 1 or 2.
• The WASMOL lists identify priority occupations for WA, making them eligible for State nomination. However, the listings do not represent specific job vacancies and do not guarantee employment. The lists are subject to updates based on industry needs.

2. Graduate Stream

• A pathway for international students completing vocational education and training (VET) or higher education qualifications in WA.
• Eligible occupations for the Graduate Stream are listed on the Graduate Occupation List (GOL), which focuses on roles prioritized for skilled migrants who have studied in WA.

Requirements for Each Stream and Visa Type

The following table outlines the 2024–25 requirements for each stream under the State Nominated Migration Program:

General Eligibility Criteria

1. Department of Home Affairs Requirements
   • Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for the chosen visa subclass.
2. Nominated Occupation
   • Your occupation must be listed on the relevant WASMOL Schedule 1 or 2, or the Graduate Occupation List (GOL).
3. English Language Proficiency
   • Minimum English language requirements must be met.
4. Work Experience
   • Applicants must have at least one year of work experience in their nominated or a closely related occupation.
5. Employment Contracts
   • A full-time employment contract in WA for a minimum of six months is required in some cases, particularly for the General Stream.
   • This requirement may be waived for applicants in the building and construction industry

Steps to Apply for WA State Nomination

To apply for WA State nomination, follow these steps:

1. Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI)
   • Submit an EOI in SkillSelect, indicating your interest in a WA State nomination.
2. Prepare Your Documents
   • Gather supporting documents, such as proof of English language ability, skills assessments, and employment contracts.
3. Receive an Invitation
   • Invitations will be issued to eligible candidates based on the ranking system.
4. Submit Your State Nomination Application
   • Complete the State nomination application form, which will be sent to you if you receive an invitation.
5. Application Assessment
   • WA Migration Services will assess your application. Processing times are generally 28 working days.
6. Nomination in SkillSelect
   • If your application is approved, your nomination will be recorded in SkillSelect.
7. Lodge Your Visa Application
   • Apply for the relevant visa subclass (190 or 491) through the Department of Home Affairs.
8. Visa Assessment and Outcome
   • Your visa application will be assessed by the Department of Home Affairs.
9. Register Your Arrival
   • If your visa is approved, you must register your arrival in WA upon arriving.

Invitation Rounds for 2024–25

• Monthly Invitation Rounds: Invitations are expected to be issued each month. The number of invitations may vary based on the number of applications.
• Future Invitations: Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee an invitation. To increase your chances, ensure that:
  • Your nominated occupation is on the Eligible Occupations List.
  • Your EOI meets all specified criteria.

Ranking System for Expression of Interest (EOI)

The ranking system for EOI selection is based on the following:

General Stream EOI Ranking Criteria

1. Current Residence
   • Priority is given to those residing in WA, followed by those offshore or in other Australian states.
2. Occupation Priority
   • Priority sectors include building and construction, healthcare, hospitality, tourism, and education.
3. Points Score
   • Applicants with higher points scores receive priority.
4. EOI Submission Date
   • Older EOIs are ranked higher if multiple applicants have the same points score.

Graduate Stream EOI Ranking Criteria

1. Current Residence
   • Higher preference for candidates currently residing in WA.
2. Occupation Priority
   • Occupations in priority sectors are ranked higher.
3. Qualification Level
   • Higher education graduates may receive up to 75% of the nominations, while 25% go to VET graduates.
4. Points Score and EOI Date
   • EOIs with higher points and older submission dates are ranked higher.

Additional Considerations for Invitations

• If you are eligible for multiple streams, you may receive invitations for each but can only lodge one application.
• If your EOI covers both the subclass 190 and subclass 491 visas, the 491 visa invitation will typically be issued first, as it often results in a higher points score.

OZ Study and Visa Centre offers comprehensive assistance for individuals seeking to navigate the State Nominated Migration Program in Western Australia (WA). Our services are designed to simplify the process and maximize your chances of securing a successful outcome. Here’s how we can help you:

1. Personalized Consultation

• We offer one-on-one consultations to assess your specific circumstances, qualifications, and career goals. This allows us to identify the most suitable migration pathway for you, whether it’s through the General Stream, Graduate Stream, or other available options.
• Our consultants provide a detailed overview of the eligibility requirements, including information on the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) and the Graduate Occupation List (GOL), to help determine if your occupation qualifies for nomination.

2. Assistance with Expression of Interest (EOI)

• We guide you through the EOI process in SkillSelect, ensuring your application is completed accurately and on time.
• Our team helps you understand the points system, advising on ways to boost your points score, such as improving your English language skills, gaining additional work experience, or completing relevant qualifications in WA.

3. Document Preparation and Application Support

• We assist in gathering all required documentation, including proof of English language proficiency, skills assessments, and employment contracts.
• Our team ensures that your documents meet the specific requirements for the General Stream or Graduate Stream, and that everything is submitted correctly to avoid delays.

4. Managing the State Nomination Application

• Once you receive an invitation, we help you complete the State nomination application, ensuring all forms are accurately filled out and submitted within the deadline.
• We provide support throughout the assessment process and keep you informed of any updates or requests from WA Migration Services.

5. Visa Application Guidance

• If your State nomination is approved, we assist you in lodging the visa application for the relevant subclass (190 or 491) with the Department of Home Affairs.
• Our team offers guidance on the visa assessment process, including any additional documentation, health assessments, or character checks that may be required.

6. Post-Visa Support

• Once your visa is approved, we help you register your arrival in WA and provide information on settlement services to make your transition as smooth as possible.
• If you need assistance with finding employment, accommodation, or further study options in WA, we can connect you with the right resources.

7. Assistance with Future Visa Pathways

• For those on a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491), we guide you on the pathway to permanent residency, such as meeting the requirements for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa (subclass 191).
• Our experts also provide advice on visa extensions, family sponsorship, and other long-term migration options to help you plan your future in Australia.

Why Choose OZ Study and Visa Centre?

• We have an in-depth understanding of Western Australia’s migration policies and the State Nominated Migration Program
• Our team stays up-to-date with any changes to the WASMOL, GOL, and other occupation lists to provide the most accurate advice.
• We offer personalized service, ensuring your application is handled professionally and with attention to detail.

Contact OZ Study and Visa Centre for Assistance

If you’re planning to migrate to Western Australia and need expert help navigating the State Nominated Migration Program, reach out to OZ Study and Visa Centre. Our team is here to help you achieve your migration goals.

• Phone: +61 420 783 653
• Email: contact@osvc.com.au

Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to living and working in Australia