Western Australia State Nomination (190 & 491), 2026 Guide

✍ AU PR Calculator Editorial Team · Updated August 2026 · Based on Schedule 6D, Migration Regulations 1994

Western Australia (WA) runs one of the most exciting and fast-paced skilled migration programs in the country. Thanks to a booming resources sector, a massive pipeline of infrastructure projects, and real shortages in healthcare and trades, the state is actively looking for skilled migrants to keep the momentum going.

To fill these gaps, WA offers state nomination through two main pathways: the permanent subclass 190 visa and the provisional regional subclass 491 visa.

This guide is built to help you navigate the WA State Nominated Migration Program for the 2026-27 program year. We've broken down the streams, what you need to qualify, and why heading west might be the smartest move for your PR journey. Before you jump in, it's a good idea to know exactly where you stand. You can calculate your baseline score here. If you're still weighing up which state suits you best, our state nomination guide is a great place to compare your options.

WA State Nomination 2026–27 Program Status

Heading into 2026, WA remains laser-focused on occupations in high demand. The state runs periodic invitation rounds, pulling eligible candidates directly from the federal SkillSelect pool. To even be considered, you'll need an active Expression of Interest (EOI) that explicitly lists Western Australia as your preferred state.

It's important to be realistic: just meeting the minimum points and putting your hand up won't guarantee an invite. WA uses a strict ranking system to prioritise candidates.

Here's how the ranking works right now: WA gives the highest priority to folks who are already living and working in the state. Following recent updates, however, applicants living overseas and those in other Australian states are now ranked equally. This is a big win if you're interstate, but it's still a highly competitive space. If you're currently based in Sydney or Melbourne, it's often wise to have NSW or Victoria as your primary plan, with WA as an excellent backup.

Why Choose Western Australia?

WA has some unique perks that make it stand out from the eastern states. If you're looking at the subclass 491 visa, WA is particularly appealing.

The fact that Perth counts as regional is a massive drawcard. Unlike NSW or Victoria where you have to move well out of the major cities to satisfy a 491 visa, WA lets you stay right in the action.

State Nomination Streams

WA splits its program into two main streams: the General Stream and the Graduate Stream.

1. The General Stream

This stream is for skilled workers (onshore or offshore) with an occupation on the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL). The WASMOL is split into Schedule 1 and Schedule 2.

The Employment Contract rule has changed! In the past, almost everyone needed a job offer. Today, the rules are much more relaxed:

• Schedule 1 (190 Visa): Generally, you still need a 6-month full-time employment contract in your nominated or closely related occupation in WA.
• Schedule 2 (190 Visa): Unless you work in the Building and Construction sector, you generally do not need an employment contract.
• Subclass 491 Visa: The job contract requirement is typically waived across the board for the 491 in the General Stream.
• English Proficiency: While 'Competent' is the minimum to apply for PR, WA often expects 'Proficient' English (like an IELTS 7.0 or PTE 65 across all bands) for managers and professionals. See our guide on maximising your points if you need a boost.

2. The Graduate Stream

WA looks after its international students. The Graduate Stream is built to offer a smoother pathway if you've invested time studying in the state.

• Study Requirement: You need a Certificate III or higher from a WA institution, involving at least two academic years (92 weeks) of full-time study.
• Graduate Occupation List: Your occupation needs to be on the Graduate Occupation List (GOL), which tends to be quite generous.
• Relaxed Work Rules: Higher degree graduates (like Masters or PhD students) often get exemptions from work experience and job offer criteria, making it an incredibly attractive option.

Occupation Lists (Schedule 1 & 2)

Make sure you know exactly which list your occupation sits on, as it changes the rules you have to play by.

Schedule 1 (WASMOL)

This list is heavily focused on the medical and healthcare sectors. If you are a Registered Nurse, Medical Practitioner, Midwife, or Allied Health professional (like a Physio or OT), WA wants you. The state has an ongoing, critical need for healthcare workers across both Perth and regional areas.

Schedule 2 (WASMOL)

Schedule 2 is the broader list, designed to keep the rest of the economy humming. It includes:

• Engineers: Civil, Mechanical, Mining, and Electrical.
• Trades: Electricians, Carpenters, Mechanics, and Chefs.
• Tech: Software Engineers, Systems Analysts, and Cyber Security folks.
• Professionals: Accountants, Teachers, and Social Workers.

Graduate Occupation List (GOL)

Exclusive to the Graduate Stream, this list is extensive, giving WA alumni a great shot at PR across a huge variety of disciplines.

Because these lists change to match the state's needs, always double-check the official migration.wa.gov.au site before putting in your EOI.

Alternatives to WA

It never hurts to have a plan B. If your occupation isn't in demand in WA, or you want to hedge your bets, check out the other states:

• New South Wales (NSW): Tough competition, but great for tech and engineering if your points are high (85+). Read our NSW nomination guide.
• Victoria (VIC): Excellent for healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and green energy professionals living in Melbourne. See our Victoria guide.
• Queensland (QLD): Gearing up for the 2032 Olympics, they are crying out for trades and construction workers. Check the QLD criteria.
• South Australia (SA): Often considered more accessible with a very broad list, especially if you studied there. Here's our SA guide.

Frequently Asked Questions