3 March 2024

Update!

NSW Government Announces a Change to Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) Under Pathway 1 Nomination Criteria – Effective Immediately

Previously, applicants for Pathway 1 were required to have been living and working in a designated regional area of NSW for at least 12 months with a single regional NSW-based employer, among other requirements. The NSW government is now reducing this employment duration requirement to 6 months.

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This change means more skilled workers can apply for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) under Pathway 1, opening up opportunities for those contributing to the regional economy and communities for 6 months.

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27 September 2023

Update!

NSW is shifting from publishing a list of eligible ANZSCO unit groups to a new sector-focused approach. 

Previously, NSW published a skills list comprised of specific ANZSCO unit groups. Now NSW focusing on priority sectors that need skilled talent. 

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NSW Target Sectors 

The sectors we've identified align closely with the skills shortages in NSW and include: 

• Health 

• Education 

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT) 

• Infrastructure  

• Agriculture 

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Although the focus this program year is on key sectors, high-ranking EOIs submitted in non-priority sectors may also be considered; however, due to the exceptionally high demand and limited places, we strongly recommend anyone considering NSW nomination to also explore all other migration options available to them. 

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NSW State Sponsor (Subclass 190)

Eligibility

• have genuinely and continuously resided in NSW or offshore for the past 6 months

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NSW State Sponsor (Subclass 491)

Eligibility

There are two pathways to NSW nomination for this visa:

• Pathway 1 – Apply directly to Investment NSW if you have an established work history with a regional NSW-based employer.

• Pathway 2 – Be invited to apply by Investment NSW

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Pathway 2 - Be invited to apply by Investment NSW

Eligibility

• Currently living and working in NSW or Offshore for the past 3 months.​

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Pathway 1 -  Apply directly to Investment NSW

Additional eligibility criteria for Pathway 1

• Currently living and working in a designated regional area of NSW for the past 6 months. 

• Work in your nominated (or closely related) occupation for the past 6 months; and

  • With the single regional NSW-based employer; and deemed skilled by NSW; and

  • Paid a minimum of the TSMIT salary level of $70,000 (prorated if under 38 hours per week) from your qualifying employer in your nominated (or closely related) occupation.