NSW state nomination is a gateway to the 190 and 491 visas in Australia’s most populous state. NSW nomination has its own criteria that change by fiscal year. This article explains it in detail.
How NSW state nomination works
NSW nomination is managed by Investment NSW, the state’s economic development agency. The state splits its program into the 190 visa (nomination for permanent residence) and the 491 visa (nomination for provisional regional residence).
NSW nomination for the 190 visa focuses on occupations in high demand in Sydney and across the state. The NSW 491 visa applies to areas outside Sydney metropolitan, requiring you to live and work in a designated area.
NSW nomination criteria
NSW nomination requires: an occupation on the list NSW recognises, meeting NSW’s minimum points criteria (usually higher than 65), relevant work experience in the occupation, and living in NSW (for some streams) or committing to live in NSW.
NSW usually requires a fairly high score due to the large number of applicants. In 2024-2025, NSW issued about 4,000 190 nominations and 2,000 491 nominations. These allocations may be adjusted downward in 2025-2026.
Notes for Vietnamese applicants
NSW is an expensive state, with Sydney being Australia’s most expensive city. NSW nomination for the 190 visa is highly competitive, so applicants with an average score should consider the NSW 491 visa (for areas such as Newcastle, Wollongong and Central Coast).
NSW also has the largest Vietnamese community in Australia, an advantage for families newly settling there. NSW nomination rules may change by fiscal year; you should check the official Investment NSW website.
You should refer to official Home Affairs website and Home Affairs – Skilled visas to check current conditions.
Summary
NSW state nomination (Investment NSW) for the 190 (statewide) and 491 (areas outside Sydney metropolitan) visas. Requires an occupation on the NSW list, a minimum score usually above 65, relevant experience, and a commitment to live in NSW. In 2024-2025, about 4,000 190 and 2,000 491 nominations were issued. Sydney is Australia’s most expensive city but has the largest Vietnamese community. You should check with Investment NSW.
