South Australia state nomination is a favourable gateway to the 190 and 491 visas in a state seen as more accessible. SA nomination has open requirements across many sectors. This article explains it in detail.
How South Australia state nomination works
SA nomination is managed by Migration South Australia (part of Skilled & Business Migration). The entire state of South Australia is recognised as a designated regional area, so the 491 visa applies to Adelaide as well.
This is a major advantage for South Australia: Adelaide is the only major city on mainland Australia recognised as a regional area for the 491 visa. People living in Adelaide still earn 15 points for the 491 visa.
South Australia nomination criteria
SA nomination has several streams. Skilled Work Regional (491) High Performing Graduate: for graduates from South Australian institutions with a high GPA. Skilled Nominated (190) Talent and Innovator stream: for people with exceptional achievements.
South Australia has a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) for the Adelaide Metropolitan area and rural areas, expanding the list of eligible occupations. DAMA SA accepts occupations not available through standard pathways.
Notes for Vietnamese applicants
Adelaide is a moderately sized city, with a cost of living lower than Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. It has a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and mild winters. South Australia is famous for the Barossa Valley wine region.
SA nomination suits people who want an easier path into Australia via the 491 visa. The Vietnamese community in Adelaide is significant, concentrated around the Athol Park area. Rules may change; you should check the Migration South Australia website.
You should refer to official Home Affairs website and Home Affairs – Skilled visas to check current conditions.
Summary
South Australia state nomination (Migration South Australia) for the 190 and 491 visas. Notably: the entire state, including Adelaide, is a designated area for the 491 visa – the only major city on mainland Australia to have this status, earning 15 bonus points. DAMA SA expands eligible occupations. Adelaide’s cost of living is lower than Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane, with a Mediterranean climate. The Vietnamese community is significant, centred in Athol Park.
