New Pathway to NSW Nomination for Regional NSW-based Skilled Migrants 

The NSW Government is bolstering support for Regional NSW-based skilled migrants with a dedicated pathway for Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) nomination.

The new 'Working in Regional NSW' eligibility stream recognises applicants’ commitment to living and working in regional NSW and demonstrates support for businesses seeking to retain skilled migrants for their operations.

The new stream will prioritise applications for skilled migrants who:

• are currently living and working in their nominated (or closely related) occupation in a designated regional area of NSW, and have continuously done so for the past twelve (12) months for a minimum of 20 hours per week;

• meet all eligibility requirements required by the Australian Government for this visa;

• have a valid skills assessment in an occupation within in a unit group that appears on the NSW Regional Skills List and is eligible for the visa;

• are paid at least the TSMIT level or $53,900 per annum (full time basis) excluding superannuation; and

• can provide employment evidence through payslips, employment contract and tax returns. 

If an applicant meets all stream criteria outlined above, they may apply directly for NSW nomination. Previously published minimum points score and work experience requirements do not apply to migrants applying through this stream.