The WA government has released the criteria and program update for its 2025-26 State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP), covering both the Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visa streams. The announcement signals continued focus on regional pathways and strong demand for engineers, trades and healthcare professionals.
What’s new & key features
WA has published the 2025-26 program criteria and noted a limited interim allocation of nomination places until the full allocation from the federal government is confirmed.
The program highlights priority occupation sectors including building & construction, healthcare & social assistance, hospitality & tourism, and education & training— meaning occupations such as engineers, electricians, carpenters, nurses, allied health professionals and similar are prioritised.
Applicants will be ranked on criteria such as: residence status (those living in WA are prioritised), priority occupation, EOI points score and submission date.
Full-time employment contract from a Western Australia employer for at least six months is required for application to Subclass 190, except for occupations in the building and construction industry sector applying through WASMOL Schedule 2 pathway.
- Invitation rankings are still equal for interstate and overseas applicants.
- In the latest invitation round on 29 October 2025, 221 applicants were invited for Subclass 190 and 154 applicants were invited for Subclass 491 through the WASMOL Schedule 2 pathway, while 45 applicants were invited through other pathways.
- The next invitation round will begin in December 2025.
Why this matters
For skilled workers eyeing migration to Australia via WA’s state nomination route, this update is significant because:
It confirms that WA continues to place strong emphasis on trades, engineering, healthcare and construction — sectors where WA has ongoing skills shortages.
Even though the interim allocation is limited, being prepared early (with EOI lodged and eligible occupation) improves your chance of being invited for nomination once full places are confirmed.
Because WA gives priority to applicants already living or working in WA (or willing to genuinely settle there), offshore applicants and those without WA links should ensure their profile clearly demonstrates their intent to live and work in WA.
Strategic tips for applicants
Ensure your occupation is on the WA Skilled Occupation List (WASMOL) for 2025-26, and check whether it falls in the “priority” schedule or list WA has flagged as in high demand.
Ensure your documents are updated, including skills assessment, English test and EOI so that you will be ready once WA invites applications.
If you are already working in WA (especially in a priority occupation) or have studied there, ensure you gather evidence of your connection to WA (residence, employment contract, etc) — this boosts your ranking.
Final summary
While the 2025-26 WA State Nominated Migration Program is somewhat constrained initially (due to the interim allocation of nomination places), the state remains committed to attracting skilled professionals in engineering, trades, healthcare and other priority sectors. Applicants who align with those needs, have a strong profile and are ready early will stand a better chance when full invitation rounds open.
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