Best Australian States for Subclass 190 & 491 Visa Applicants

Are you considering applying for a Skilled Nominated visa subclass 190 or Skilled Work Regional Provisional visa (subclass 491)? If yes, then you have landed on the right article. Well, Australia’s skilled migration program is highly sought after and has begun outlining its state sponsorship requirements in 2026. For this, choosing the right state can make a significant difference in your application- either waiting or getting nominated faster. So, let’s dive deeper to know about the top Australian states to consider before applying for a visa subclass 190 or 491 in 2026.

Recommended States for Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190 and 491 

Each state in Australia offers numerous opportunities for skilled workers, like opening a pathway to permanent residency, working and living anywhere in Australia, and family sponsorship. Whether you are an IT professional, an engineer, or a tradesperson, if you are planning to migrate under a skilled visa pathway, here are the best states that you can choose to get a skilled nominated visa subclass 190 and 491.

Also Read: 190 vs 491 Visa Australia – Choose the Perfect Option for Your PR Journey 

1] New South Wales (NSW): Easy-going Pathways With Easy Residency

In NSW, there are flexible options for residency with fewer rules, making it one of the best choices for skilled professionals already working in the same field they are applying to or students who are studying in NSW with a temporary visa.  You need to stay at least 6 months in the state before applying for a 190 visa, or 3 months in the case of an Australian visa 491.

2] Victoria: Best for In-Demand Jobs and Skilled Labor Employment

Victoria is a destination for high-demand jobs, and it provides a chance for workers in tourism, teaching, healthcare, engineering, and education. This state has launched a scheme through the Registration of Interest (ROI) process. Victoria is inviting visa subclass 190 and 491 applicants based on the occupation and demand for onshore and offshore to allow them long-term settlement.

3] Tasmania: A hidden gem for skilled workers.

This is one of the top states with just a 3.9% unemployment rate, and is well known to offer decent wages and growth. The State of Tasmania has health, education, and IT job opportunities, with a relaxed lifestyle. The state offers a transparent PR visa process through the Gateway portal and a color-coded system. For instance, Orange Pass is for a long waitlist, Green Pass is for people already spent 6 months, and Gold Pass is given for an instant visa invitation and approval. 

4] South Australia: A Harmonious place for graduates and skilled workers.

SA strikes a balance between opportunities for fresh graduates and experienced professionals, focused on the health care, social work, education, construction, and retail sectors. You must have 6 months of experience in the relevant sector in the case of a graduate, or must have employment in SA in the case of skilled workers, or 3 years of work experience in the country in the case of an offshore applicant.

5] Western Australia (WA): Best to work in demanding sectors

WA is buzzing with growth in the construction, mining, engineering, and health sectors. Western Australian states are best if you are willing to work in high-demand industries as an engineer, tradesperson, or graduate after the clearance of an Australian visa 491 or visa subclass 190.

6] Northern Territory (NT): Open for all – a great place to work and live

The NT is open to everyone in every occupation and offers extraordinary opportunities to move to the country if you have a strong career desire. However, you need to complete 2 years of living in the NT with employment in case of visa subclass 190, while 1 year of living with 6 months of employment is required in case of Australian visa 491.

7] Australia Capital Territory (ACT) Regions: Points-based & friendly policies

The ACT (Canberra) has a points system based on work experience, English proficiency, qualifications, and residence. However, the graduate-friendly policies make the state ideal for tech and policy experts. Canberra is a great place to live, work, and explore your career further. For easy approval of a skilled nominated visa subclass 190, your occupation should either meet the Critical Skill List of the ACT, or you should have completed a PhD from the University of the ACT.

8] Queensland: Early birds will reap the benefits

Queensland welcomes early movers to capitalise on their opportunities in the health, agriculture, engineering, trade, and IT sectors. Your visa approval process for 491 or 190 would be easier in the state if you have good hands-on work experience in the demanding sectors like technical, healthcare, construction, and more.

Also Read: Overview About The 491 Regional Visa

Factors That Influence Choosing The Best State For 190 and 491 Visa Submissions

While selecting the most preferable state for the Subclass 190/491 visa, the following are the most important factors to be weighed:

• Occupation demand: Is your occupation in demand within the state?
• Lifestyle: What kind of cost of living, climate, and culture will I experience?
• Job opportunities: Are there job prospects in your field?
• State requirements: What are the requirements specific to the state and its list of occupations?
• Residency requirements: How does one attain residency within a state?
• Family and support: Do you have any family and support systems in this state?
• Education and Healthcare: Are there good schools and healthcare facilities?

Must Read: 7 Most Common Mistakes Which Can Lead To Rejection Of Your Visa 189 And Visa 190

Wrap Up- Take Professional Advice For Smooth 190 & 491 Visa Processing

Consulting a reliable Immigration Agent Perth can ease your nomination for Skilled Work Regional Provisional Visa Subclass 491 or 190. They’ll also represent you to the Department of Home Affairs, increasing your chances of a fast and successful application processing. Plus, they’ll handle paperwork and communication, making the process smoother for you.