Your Pathway to Queensland: 190 and 491 Streams Explained

Suman Dua MARN 1800859Oct 23, 20243 min read

Updated: Jan 9

Are you looking to migrate to Queensland under the Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) or Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) pathways? Whether you’re a recent graduate from a Queensland university, a skilled worker already living in the state, or planning to migrate from overseas, this guide outlines the key streams available.

Streams Covered:

1. Skilled Workers Living in Queensland

2. Graduates of Queensland

3. Skilled Workers Outside Australia

Common Requirements Across Streams

Before diving into specific criteria, here are some common eligibility requirements:

• Points Test: Applicants must achieve a minimum score of 65 points on the General Skilled Migration points test.

• Occupation List: Your occupation must appear on either:

  • The Home Affairs List of Eligible Skilled Occupations.

  • The Offshore Queensland Skilled Occupation List.

• Proficient English: A high level of English proficiency is required, ensuring you meet the Proficient English standard.

Priority Sectors:Migration Queensland prioritizes candidates whose occupations address workforce shortages in key sectors, including:

• Energy

• Construction and Infrastructure

• Healthcare and Social Assistance

• Education

• Professional Services

• Agribusiness

• Tourism and Hospitality

• Transport

Some occupations may not be eligible for onshore nomination under Subclass 190 this program year. Visit Migration Queensland's website for the latest updates.

Stream 1: Skilled Workers Living in Queensland

This stream is for individuals already living and working in Queensland.

For Subclass 190 Pathway:

• You must have lived and worked full-time in Queensland for at least 6 months in a role closely related to your nominated occupation.

• Full-time work is defined as 30 hours per week or more.

• Employment must be ongoing, with proof of continuation for 12 months after submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).

For Subclass 491 Pathway:

• Applicants must have lived and worked in regional Queensland for at least 3 months.

• Employment must be full-time (30+ hours per week), with evidence of continued employment for 6 months.

Stream 2: Graduates of Queensland

This stream is open to recent graduates from Queensland universities who studied in priority fields such as:

• Agriculture and Environment

• Engineering and Related Technologies

• Education

• Health

• Information Technology

• Natural and Physical Sciences

To Qualify:

• You must have completed 100% of your qualification in Queensland.

• Graduation must have occurred after 1 July 2022.

For Subclass 190 Pathway:

• Lived and worked in Queensland for at least 6 months in a Skill Level 1 occupation, working 30+ hours per week.

• Employment must be ongoing, with proof of continuity for 12 months.

For Subclass 491 Pathway:

• Lived and worked in regional Queensland for at least 3 months in a Skill Level 1 occupation.

• Employment must continue for 6 months after submitting your EOI.

Stream 3: Skilled Workers Living Outside Australia

If you’re applying from overseas, your nominated occupation must be on the Offshore Queensland Skilled Occupation List.

Key Requirements:

• At least 5 years of relevant work experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related field.

• Your EOI must align with your declared occupation, and work experience must directly reflect this.

• You need to be employed full-time in this role at the time of receiving an invitation from Migration Queensland.

Priority Pathway for Energy Sector Workers

Queensland’s commitment to achieving 80% renewable energy by 2035 has created a high demand for skilled workers in the energy sector.

Eligibility Criteria:

• A positive skills assessment in a priority occupation related to the energy sector.

• At least 3 years of relevant work experience in your nominated occupation.

• These 3 years count toward the 5-year work experience requirement for Queensland nomination.

Why Choose Nationwide Migration and Education?

Navigating Queensland’s migration pathways can be complex, but that’s where we come in.

At Nationwide Migration and Education, our team of experienced Registered Migration Agents specializes in Queensland’s state nomination process. Whether you’re a graduate, offshore applicant, or currently living in Queensland, we provide personalized support to ensure your application is successful.

Book Your Consultation Today

Ready to take the next step toward making Queensland your home? Book a consultation with one of our expert migration agents today!

Disclaimer:

The information shared by Nationwide Migration and Education is for general informational purposes only. While accurate at the time of publication, details may change. This content is not intended as legal or migration advice. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please book a consultation with a Registered Migration Agent.