If you're looking to live and work in Australia after graduation, Western Australia's State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) provides a valuable pathway - especially for those who complete their studies in WA.
WA Migration Services, on behalf of the State Government, invites eligible graduates to apply for nomination under two skilled migration visas:
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) - offers 5 additional points
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) - offers 15 additional points
These extra points can significantly improve your chances of securing a visa through the Department of Home Affairs' points-based system.
Monthly Invitation Rounds
WA Migration Services issues State nomination invitations on a monthly basis. However, the number of invitations may vary depending on demand and application volumes.
To help you strengthen your chances:
- Ensure your Expression of Interest (EOI) meets WA's eligibility requirements.
- Confirm your nominated occupation is listed on the WA Eligible Occupation List.
- Refer to the official application guide for the most up-to-date instructions.
⚠️Note: Submitting an eligible EOI does not guarantee an invitation, but meeting the criteria increases the likelihood.

Priority Western Australia Industry Sectors
WA prioritises occupations in key industry sectors, especially for skilled migration through the SNMP. These sectors are critical to the state's economic development and workforce needs:
- Building and construction
- Healthcare and social assistance
- Hospitality and tourism
- Education and training
Graduate Stream: Higher Education & VET Options
Western Australia supports both higher education and VET (Vocational Education and Training) graduates who have studied in the state. Here's how you can qualify:
Higher Education Graduates | VET Graduates |
Bachelor, Honours, Masters, or PhD completed in WA. | Certificate III/IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma completed in WA. |
Open to students living in WA, other Australian states/territories, or offshore. | Same as Higher Education stream. |
Priority sectors: building & construction, healthcare, hospitality, education & training. | Same as Higher Education stream. |
Selected based on highest EOI points & date of submission. | Same selection criteria. |
🔢Allocation breakdown:
- 75% of graduate stream nominations are reserved for higher education graduates
- 25% are allocated to VET graduates
Are you an Education/Migration Agent? Here's why this matters for you.
This program provides a compelling migration incentive to promote Western Australia as a destination. Students who complete their qualifications in WA - particularly in priority industries - benefit from:
- Enhanced visa prospects
- Industry-aligned opportunities
- Government-backed nomination support
This is a strong selling points for students who are not only seeking quality education, but also a long-term pathway to live and work in Australia.
For detailed eligibility criteria, how to apply, and regular updates, visit migration.wa.gov.au
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