The Western Australian government has opened the doors for the SNMP 2024-25 program year, welcoming skilled migrants to contribute to the state’s economic growth. A significant highlight of this year’s program is the continued waiver of the $200 application fee, making the process more accessible to potential applicants. Additionally, the introduction of new employment contract arrangements for candidates selected through the General Stream – WASMOL – Schedule 1 signifies a positive development.
To maximize your chances of success, the Western Australian government anticipates holding invitation rounds during the first week of each month, commencing in August 2024. Successful applicants can secure either the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) or the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491). It’s important to note that these visas come with additional points in the Department of Home Affairs points test – five points for subclass 190 and fifteen points for subclass 491, respectively.
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Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for a State nomination under the Western Australian State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) 2024-25, your occupation must appear on either the General or Graduate stream occupation list.
General Stream
This stream is open to a wide range of skilled occupations across various industries. Eligible occupations are listed on the Western Australian Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) Schedule 1 or Schedule 2.
Graduate Stream
Targeted at international students who have completed their studies in Western Australia, this stream focuses on specific occupations in demand. Eligible occupations are listed on the Graduate Occupation List (GOL).
Both the WASMOL and GOL identify occupations deemed crucial to Western Australia’s economy. Applicants with occupations on these lists may be eligible for either a Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) or a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).
Please note that the WASMOL is applicable to applicants using either the General stream WASMOL Schedule 1 or General stream WASMOL Schedule 2.
How to apply for 2024-25 WA State nomination
Please note that to be eligible for an invitation in the WA State Nominated Migration Program, you must meet both:
- the Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs) criteria for the nominated visa(opens in a new tab); and
-
the WA criteria for State nomination(PDF document – opens in a new tab)[PDF 316 KB]
Before starting your application, you will need to check whether your occupation is available on either the WA Skilled migration occupation list (WASMOL) Schedule 1 or 2, or the Graduate occupation list.
The SNMP application process involves several key stages:
- Express Interest: Begin by registering your interest through the official government portal, by applying via the SNMP official website
- Invitation to Apply: If your profile aligns with the program’s requirements, you may receive an invitation to submit a full application.
- Submit Application: Prepare and submit your complete application, including all required documentation.
- Assessment: The Western Australian government meticulously evaluates your application against eligibility criteria and available state nomination places.
- Outcome Notification: You will be informed of the application outcome, whether successful or unsuccessful.
- Federal Visa Application: If your state nomination is granted, proceed to apply for the appropriate federal visa (subclass 190 or 491) through the Department of Home Affairs.
Requirements
The following outlines the general requirements for the 2024-25 Western Australian State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP). Specific conditions may apply depending on the chosen stream (General or Graduate) and visa subclass (190 or 491).
General Requirements
- Meet Department of Home Affairs Criteria: Fulfill all eligibility requirements for your desired visa subclass (190 or 491) as outlined by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
- Occupation on Relevant List: Your nominated occupation must be listed on either the Western Australian Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) for the General stream or the Graduate Occupation List (GOL) for the Graduate stream.
- English Language Proficiency: Achieve the minimum English language requirement.
- Work Experience: Typically, at least one year of work experience in your nominated or closely related occupation is required, either in Australia or overseas.
Stream-Specific Requirements
- General Stream: A full-time employment contract of at least six months in Western Australia for your nominated or closely related occupation is usually required. Exceptions may apply for certain occupations, such as those in the building and construction industry.
- Graduate Stream: Successful completion of a Certificate III level or higher qualification from a recognized Western Australian educational institution is mandatory. Additional Graduate stream study requirements must be met.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Thorough Research: Understand the program’s intricacies, eligibility criteria, and documentation requirements.
- Occupation Alignment: Ensure your occupation is on the Western Australian skilled occupation list.
- Skills Assessment: Prioritize obtaining a positive skills assessment.
- Language Proficiency: Achieve the required English language proficiency level.
- Points Maximization: Strategically enhance your points score through work experience, qualifications, and other factors.
- Comprehensive Documentation: Prepare all necessary documents meticulously.
- Regular Updates: Stay informed about program changes and updates.
- Professional Assistance: Consider consulting an immigration agent for expert guidance.
