Western Australia State-Nominated Migration Program: 2025-26 Update

Western Australia (WA) continues to open its doors to global talent through its State-Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) an appealing path to Australian permanent residency for eligible skilled workers (Subclass 190) and regional visa holders (Subclass 491).

What’s New for 2025-26 Allocations

The 2025-26 SNMP allocations are currently at an interim stage. Full numbers are expected after a pivotal state-federal meeting scheduled for 12 September 2025. For context, in 2024-25, WA received 5,000 nominated places, tying with Victoria and New South Wales, along with 5,000 additional DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreement) slots. Perth metro is now included under the DAMA framework

Who’s in Demand?

WA’s workforce priorities remain consistent. The following sectors are likely to continue receiving strong preference:

• Construction & Building Trades

• Healthcare & Nursing

• Education

• Hospitality & Tourism

Submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect now is advised—this ensures readiness when final allocations are released

Two Pathways: Which Suits You?

General Stream

Ideal for experienced professionals whose occupations appear on the Western Australian Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL). This list is divided into:

• Schedule 1: Critical occupations (health, construction, engineering, education) often prioritized, sometimes requiring a WA-based employment contract.

• Schedule 2: Broader range of eligible roles, but may rank lower in priority.

Applicants can apply from WA, interstate, or overseas. Factors like WA ties (residence, job offers, family) can enhance your ranking.

Graduate Stream

Tailored for international students who graduated from a CRICOS-registered WA institution. Qualifying occupations are listed on the Graduate Occupation List (GOL), which is broader than WASMOL and includes both professional and trade fields.

• Must have completed at least two years of full-time study in WA.

• Higher-degree holders (Master's, PhD) typically have a ranking edge.

• Often features lower cut-off points than the General Stream and may allow for an additional TR 485 post-study work visa.

General Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for state nomination in WA, you generally must:

1. Have an occupation listed on WASMOL or GOL.

2. Meet Department of Home Affairs criteria: skills assessment, English proficiency, and minimum 65 points.

3. Provide a full-time employment contract in WA (exempt for select construction roles).

4. Intend to live and work in WA for at least two years.

   
   

When issuing invitations (typically monthly during open rounds), WA uses the following priority sequence:

1. Applicants already residing in WA

2. Those in other Australian states

3. Overseas applicants

4. Occupations in high-priority sectors (construction, health, education, hospitality)

5. Higher WA-based qualifications (Master’s, PhD)

6. EOI score and submission date

   
   

What You Can Do Now

While final allocations are pending, here are proactive steps to enhance your readiness:

• Lodge or update your EOI in SkillSelect.

• Review WASMOL and GOL to confirm your occupation’s eligibility.

• Prepare supporting documents: skills assessment, WA job offer, English test results.

• Stay informed via the official Migration WA updates on the 2025-26 allocations.

Why WA Remains a Top Choice

• Consistency: WA has maintained regular invitation rounds with minimal fluctuation.

• Steady demand: Trades, community services, nursing, teaching, and specialized roles consistently attract invitations.

• Graduate-friendly: With a tailored Graduate Stream, WA presents an appealing option for overseas students seeking long-term settlement.

With thoughtful EOI preparation and awareness of the forthcoming 2025-26 allocations, you’re well-placed to take advantage of one of the country’s most dynamic skilled migration pathways. Keep your EOI active, stay updated, and position yourself for nomination.

Book a Free Phone Consultation with us to explore your migration pathway or, study options.

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Read more: https://www.newstedglobal.com/western-australia-state-nominated-migration-program

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