Finally, the 2024-25 Queensland State Nominated Migration Program is OPEN!

If you’re considering making Queensland your new home, it’s important to understand that a nomination from the Queensland Government is required for certain skilled visas. Managed by Migration Queensland, these state-nominated visas offer a pathway to permanent residency, enabling you to live and work in one of Australia’s most dynamic and forward-thinking regions.

Highlights of this article:

• The Queensland state government provides four pathways for skilled workers.
• The program focuses on supporting Queensland’s growing industries.
• Queensland Graduate – must in any Skill Level 1 Occupation
• Priority processing is available for Energy Workers, particularly for overseas applicants.
• Business visas remain closed this year.

1. The Queensland state government provides four pathways for skilled workers

• Skilled Workers Living in Queensland
• Queensland Graduate
• Skilled Workers Outside Australia
• Smaill Business Owners Pathway

One of the most common questions we receive is about the difference between Skilled Workers Living in Queensland and the Queensland Graduate pathways.

• Skilled Workers Living in Queensland is designed for individuals who are already employed in Queensland and are looking to settle permanently.
  
• Queensland Graduate is aimed at international graduates who hold an eligible qualification from a Queensland university and are currently employed. This pathway helps to address critical skill shortages and is often pursued by those on a SC 485 visa.

Additionally, the Skilled Workers Outside Australia pathway is tailored for individuals with strong skills who are eager to immigrate to Queensland. However, this pathway has additional requirements, which we will explore in more detail later.

As for the Small Business Owners Pathway, the criteria remain largely unchanged compared to previous years, providing a stable route for business owners to establish themselves in Queensland.

If you’re unsure which pathway is best suited for you, feel free to reach out to us. Our professionals are here to assist you in making the right choice!

2. The program focuses on supporting Queensland’s growing industries
For those applying through the Skilled Worker Living in Queensland or Queensland Graduate pathways, you must meet the Queensland Skilled Occupation List (QSOL) which focuses on helping to address shortages in key industries such as:

• Energy 
• Construction and infrastructure 
• Healthcare and social assistance 
• Education 
• Professional services 
• Agribusiness 
• Tourism and hospitality 
• Transport 

If your occupation is on this list, you may be eligible for the 190 or 491 visa, though additional conditions apply.

3. Queensland Graduate – must in any Skill Level 1 Occupation

Queensland emphasises that in addition to meeting requirements like English proficiency, work experience, and residency, graduates must hold a position in a Skill Level 1 Occupation. These roles typically require a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification, or at least five years of relevant experience. Examples include Social Workers, Registered Nurses, and Teachers.

If you’re unsure about the skill level of your occupation, you can check it through here.

4. Priority processing is available for Energy Workers, particularly for overseas applicants

Migration Queensland is prioritising applications from skilled workers outside Australia, particularly those in energy-related occupations. Candidates who meet the minimum Migration Queensland requirements and have relevant experience in the energy sector will be considered for priority processing.

• The transition to net zero and climate change adaptation. 
• The delivery of more hospitals, upgraded schools, more housing and better transport under Queensland’s Big Build. 
• Queensland’s increasing demand for health care.

The Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan outlines the state’s pathway to clean, reliable and affordable power for generations. Skilled workers outside Australia are considered for priority processing if they meet the minimum Migration Queensland requirements outlined above, and: 

Requirement	Details
Occupation	Have a positive skills assessment for a priority occupation to support the energy sector.
Work experience	Have been working in your nominated occupation, or a closely related occupation, for at least 3 years in the energy sector. This experience can be counted towards the standard minimum 5 years’ work experience requirement.

5. Business visas remain closed this year
Unfortunately, business visas remain closed for this program year. However, if you’re still interested in migrating to Australia, there are other pathways you can explore.

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The 2024-25 Queensland State Nominated Migration Program offers various pathways for skilled workers to live and work in Queensland, focusing on addressing shortages in key industries like energy, construction, and healthcare. Whether you’re currently living in Queensland, a recent graduate, or an overseas applicant, there are opportunities available to suit your circumstances. If you meet the requirements, you could be on your way to securing permanent residency in one of Australia’s most vibrant and progressive states.

If you’re unsure which pathway is the best fit for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of professionals is ready to assist you in finding the most suitable visa option for your journey to Queensland. Please feel free to reach out to us.