Perth, Western Australia – 2025: The Western Australian Government has released the updated rules for the 2025-26 State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP), offering skilled migrants a pathway to live and work in WA through State nomination.

Applicants nominated by WA can gain extra points on the Department of Home Affairs points test for two visa subclasses:

  • Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): +5 points
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491): +15 points

Apply Now!

Key Features of the 2025-26 Program

The 2025-26 SNMP continues several key initiatives, including:
  • Equal invitation ranking for interstate and overseas candidates.
  • Prioritized invitations for occupations in critical WA industry sectors.
  • Reduced employment requirements for WA building and construction industry occupations.
  • Additional employment contract arrangements for the General stream under WASMOL Schedule 1.
  • Prioritized invitations for building and construction trade occupations.
  • Reintroduction of a $200 application fee.

Eligibility Requirements

General Stream: Open to a wide range of occupations listed in the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) Schedule 1 or 2.

Graduate Stream: Designed for eligible international students completing vocational or higher education qualifications in WA, with occupations listed on the Graduate Occupation List (GOL).

Note: Eligibility on these lists does not guarantee a job in WA. Occupations are prioritized based on WA’s workforce needs and updated regularly.

Applicants must meet both the Department of Home Affairs visa requirements and the WA State nomination criteria.

Visa Types Eligible for WA State Nomination

  • Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

Applicants for building and construction occupations may not need a full-time employment contract.

Invitation Rounds and Ranking

WA Migration Services anticipates issuing invitations monthly. EOIs (Expressions of Interest) are ranked according to:
  1. Residence status (WA, interstate, or offshore)
  2. Occupation in priority WA industry sectors:
    • Building and construction (trades and other occupations)
    • Healthcare and social assistance
    • Hospitality and tourism
    • Education and training
  3. Highest EOI points score
  4. Oldest EOI submission date

Up to 75% of Graduate stream nominations will be for higher education graduates, and up to 25% for VET graduates.

How to Apply

The application process includes:
  1. Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI)
  2. Prepare supporting documents
  3. Receive an invitation
  4. Lodge WA State nomination application
  5. Assessment and outcome
  6. Nomination in SkillSelect
  7. Lodge visa application
  8. Visa assessment and approval
  9. Register arrival or visa approval

Current processing time for ‘decision ready’ applications is 28 working days.

Check Your Eligibility

Applicants are advised to check if their occupation is listed on WASMOL Schedule 1 or 2 or the Graduate Occupation List before applying.

For more information and to verify your eligibility, visit WA Migration Services.

Apply Now!

Stay updated:

Western Australia’s SNMP provides a significant opportunity for skilled migrants looking to work and live in the state. Ensure your EOI and occupation meet the 2025-26 requirements to maximize your chances of receiving an invitation.