What is state nomination?

Australia’s state migration programs allow states and territories to nominate people for various skilled and business visas. 

In Queensland, our program helps us address critical skills shortages in a broad range of industries and attract business and investment to the state. 

A rapidly growing population, a dynamic economy and preparations to host Brisbane 2032 are the ingredients for skyrocketing demand for skilled talent across priority sectors.

We welcome skilled talent from around the world to take advantage of the opportunities to have a great career and a great life in Queensland.

Queensland nominates skilled migrants for both provisional visas and permanent residency. Candidates are selected according to their occupation, and qualification and skills, in addition to a range of other eligibility criteria.  

Nomination from Queensland will provide:

• An additional 5 points for a Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190) towards the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ points test 
• An additional 15 points for a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) towards the Australian Department of Home Affairs'  points test 
• The same work rights as an Australian citizen, granting independence that’s not tied to a single employer.

Learn more about Queensland’s skilled visa options.

Queensland’s diversified economy, rich resource base, skilled workforce and long-term infrastructure pipeline driven by the Brisbane 2032 legacy program makes the state an attractive investment destination.

Queensland welcomes highly skilled and talented business people who wish to bring their investment capital, business acumen and innovative ideas to our state. 

Recently, the Australian Government closed the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) to new applicants. 

A business migrant who holds a subclass 188 visa, and meets the relevant criteria for the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) (subclass 888) visa, can continue this pathway after July 2024. 

Applicants who do not wish to continue with their subclass 188 application can apply for a refund of their Visa Application Charge (VAC).

Migration Queensland continues to assess permanent visa (subclass 888) nomination applications for applicants who hold a current provisional visa (subclass 188), and meet the relevant nomination criteria. 

For more information, see the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ Business Innovation and Investment Program news update. 

Learn more about Queensland’s business visa options.