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QLD State Nomination Full Guide 2025-26

QLD Skilled Nomination (Subclass 190 & 491) — Updated Policies, Pathway Comparison & Practical Insights

QLD State Nomination Overview

The Queensland State Nomination Program is administered by Migration Queensland (MQ) and aims to attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs with solid experience and a genuine commitment to long-term settlement in Queensland. The program provides a steady stream of skilled talent to support the state’s economic and regional growth. Each year, the Queensland Government receives nomination quotas from the Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) and, based on these allocations, offers nomination opportunities for eligible applicants under the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa and the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa. Successful nominees gain additional points and benefit from priority visa processing.

In the 2025–26 financial year, Queensland’s nomination priorities focus more strongly on genuine employment, regional commitment, and skill retention. Applicants must maintain lawful and verifiable employment throughout all three stages — ROI submission, invitation, and nomination. Employment must be at least 20 hours per week, and the position must closely align with the nominated occupation (matching the first three digits of the ANZSCO code). The previously broad definition of “relevant experience” has now been refined to verifiable employment requirements, and remote work is only accepted if the employer maintains a physical business presence in Queensland.

The occupation list continues to prioritise roles in construction, healthcare, education, and trades, including carpenters, electricians, project managers, nurses, and teachers — all identified as key shortage occupations in Queensland. Meanwhile, significant changes have been made to the Small Business Owner (SBO) pathway: from 19 September 2025 onward, newly purchased or newly established businesses will no longer be eligible under the SBO stream. Only businesses purchased or established prior to this date and meeting all other criteria will continue to be assessed under the previous rules.

The Queensland State Nomination Program is currently open to five main categories:

  • Skilled workers living in Queensland

  • Skilled workers living offshore

  • Building & Construction Pathway

  • Graduates of a Queensland university

  • Small Business Owners in Regional Queensland

In the 2025–26 program year, Queensland continues to apply a high-standard selection framework, but the focus has shifted from pure “points competition” to a balanced approach that values both points and tangible contribution. While a strong EOI score remains the foundation for eligibility, it is no longer the only deciding factor. The state government now places greater emphasis on whether applicants can demonstrate genuine employment, long-term settlement intentions, and real contributions to Queensland’s economy. In short, meeting the federal points threshold (typically 65 or above) is just the entry ticket — your actual contribution determines who gets to stay.

Basic Requirements for QLD State Nomination

Eligibility Overview

To apply for Queensland State Nomination (for both Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas), applicants must meet both of the following criteria:

  • The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) visa eligibility requirements; and

  • The Queensland Government’s additional state nomination criteria.

Both conditions must be satisfied before an applicant can receive an invitation.

Department of Home Affairs Requirements

CategoryDescription
Nominated OccupationYour nominated occupation must be listed on the Queensland Skilled Occupation List.
AgeBe under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
EnglishAchieve at least IELTS 6 in each component or equivalent English proficiency.
PointsReach at least 65 points (refer to the Skilled Migration Points Test).
ResidencyMust be living in Queensland (QLD), regional Queensland, or outside Australia.
Skills AssessmentHold a valid Skills Assessment in your nominated occupation.
Character & HealthMeet the Australian immigration standards (PIC4005/4007).
Category Description
Nominated Occupation Your nominated occupation must be listed on the Queensland Skilled Occupation List .
Age Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
English Achieve at least IELTS 6 in each component or equivalent English proficiency.
Points Reach at least 65 points (refer to the Skilled Migration Points Test ).
Residency Must be living in Queensland (QLD), regional Queensland, or outside Australia.
Skills Assessment Hold a valid Skills Assessment in your nominated occupation.
Character & Health Meet the Australian immigration standards (PIC4005/4007).

190 VS 491

ComparisonSubclass 190Subclass 491
Visa TypePermanent Residency (PR)Provisional Visa (valid for 5 years)
Living & Working LocationCan live and work anywhere in the nominated stateRestricted to regional areas of the nominated state (Regional Area)
Pathway to Permanent ResidencyDirect PR upon visa grantEligible to apply for Subclass 191 PR visa after meeting requirements
State Nomination Points+5 points+15 points
Comparison Subclass 190 Subclass 491
Visa Type Permanent Residency (PR) Provisional Visa (valid for 5 years)
Living & Working Location Can live and work anywhere in the nominated state Restricted to regional areas of the nominated state (Regional Area)
Pathway to Permanent Residency Direct PR upon visa grant Eligible to apply for Subclass 191 PR visa after meeting requirements
State Nomination Points +5 points +15 points

Skilled Workers Living in QLD

Eligibility

This pathway is designed for skilled workers currently employed in Queensland, aiming to fill priority skill shortages.

Note: International graduates who do not meet the eligibility requirements for the Queensland Graduate Pathway should apply through this stream if eligible.

State Requirement190 Nomination Requirement491 Nomination Requirement
EOI PointsAt least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, including +5 state-nomination points).At least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, including +15 state-nomination points).
OccupationMust be on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; some occupations are restricted to the 491 and are not eligible for the 190.
Note: Work experience in fast-food/quick-service settings as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
Must be on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; the list includes occupations that may only be eligible for the 491.
Note: Work experience in fast-food/quick-service settings as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
EnglishAt least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency).At least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency).
Work ExperienceBefore submitting the ROI, you must have lived and worked in Queensland (state-wide) for the past 9 months; and:
  • Experience must be obtained after completing your relevant qualification;
  • Your job’s ANZSCO first 3 digits must match your nominated occupation;
  • At least 20 hours per week;
  • From ROI through invitation and any checks, you must meet the minimum hours and duration;
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible roles can be combined;
  • Working from home is acceptable, but the employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
Before submitting the ROI, you must have lived and worked in Regional Queensland for the past 6 months; and:
  • Experience must be obtained after completing your relevant qualification;
  • Your job’s ANZSCO first 3 digits must match your nominated occupation;
  • At least 20 hours per week;
  • From ROI through invitation and any checks, you must meet the minimum hours and duration;
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible roles can be combined;
  • Working from home is acceptable, but the employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
Visa EligibilityIf you currently hold (or have held) a 491 (or 489) visa, you are not eligible to apply for 190 nomination.Follow the occupation-list note; some occupations are eligible for 491 only.
Evidence of Ongoing EmploymentNo fixed headcount requirement. You must be lawfully employed at all checkpoints—ROI, invitation, and nomination; work at least 20 hours per week; roles may be combined; casual work is accepted; working from home is acceptable where the employer has a physical office in Queensland. No fixed headcount requirement. You must be lawfully employed at all checkpoints—ROI, invitation, and nomination; work at least 20 hours per week; roles may be combined; casual work is accepted; working from home is acceptable where the employer has a physical office in Queensland.
Commitment to QueenslandAfter grant, live and work in Queensland (state-wide) for at least 2 years.After grant, live and work in Regional Queensland for at least 3 years.
State Requirement 190 Nomination Requirement 491 Nomination Requirement
EOI Points At least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, including +5 state-nomination points). At least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, including +15 state-nomination points).
Occupation Must be on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; some occupations are restricted to the 491 and are not eligible for the 190.
Note: Work experience in fast-food/quick-service settings as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
Must be on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; the list includes occupations that may only be eligible for the 491.
Note: Work experience in fast-food/quick-service settings as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
English At least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency). At least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency).
Work Experience Before submitting the ROI, you must have lived and worked in Queensland (state-wide) for the past 9 months; and:
  • Experience must be obtained after completing your relevant qualification;
  • Your job’s ANZSCO first 3 digits must match your nominated occupation;
  • At least 20 hours per week;
  • From ROI through invitation and any checks, you must meet the minimum hours and duration;
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible roles can be combined;
  • Working from home is acceptable, but the employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
Before submitting the ROI, you must have lived and worked in Regional Queensland for the past 6 months; and:
  • Experience must be obtained after completing your relevant qualification;
  • Your job’s ANZSCO first 3 digits must match your nominated occupation;
  • At least 20 hours per week;
  • From ROI through invitation and any checks, you must meet the minimum hours and duration;
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible roles can be combined;
  • Working from home is acceptable, but the employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
Visa Eligibility If you currently hold (or have held) a 491 (or 489) visa, you are not eligible to apply for 190 nomination. Follow the occupation-list note; some occupations are eligible for 491 only.
Evidence of Ongoing Employment No fixed headcount requirement. You must be lawfully employed at all checkpoints—ROI, invitation, and nomination; work at least 20 hours per week; roles may be combined; casual work is accepted; working from home is acceptable where the employer has a physical office in Queensland. No fixed headcount requirement. You must be lawfully employed at all checkpoints—ROI, invitation, and nomination; work at least 20 hours per week; roles may be combined; casual work is accepted; working from home is acceptable where the employer has a physical office in Queensland.
Commitment to Queensland After grant, live and work in Queensland (state-wide) for at least 2 years. After grant, live and work in Regional Queensland for at least 3 years.

Skilled Workers Living outside Australia

Eligibility

For skilled workers outside Australia, applicants must first meet the minimum requirements of the Department of Home Affairs for the 491 visa under the state government nomination for regional areas, and also meet the requirements of Queensland for this pathway:

州政府要求190 州政府担保要求491 州政府担保要求
EOI 积分达到 65 分及以上(移民局计分系统,含州担保加分 +5。)
(请参考 技术移民打分表)。
达到 65 分及以上(移民局计分系统,含州担保加分 +15。)
(请参考 技术移民打分表)。
职业职业须在 Queensland Offshore Skills List(昆州海外申请人职业清单)上。
注意:如已申请或当前持有 491/489,则不符合 190 提名资格。
职业须在 Queensland Offshore Skills List(昆州海外申请人职业清单)上。
注意:清单中部分职业可申请 491。
英语至少达到雅思4个6或同等英语水平至少达到雅思4个6或同等英语水平
工作经验• 至少 1 年与提名职业或密切相关的技能型工作经验;
• 仅计算在 EOI 中申报为与提名职业相关的工作经验;
• 在收到邀请及获得提名时,仍需受雇于提名职业或密切相关职业。
• 至少 1 年与提名职业或密切相关的技能型工作经验;
• 仅计算在 EOI 中申报为与提名职业相关的工作经验;
• 在收到邀请及获得提名时,仍需受雇于提名职业或密切相关职业。
签证资格若你已申请/当前持有 491(或 489),则不能获 190 提名。是否可申 491 以清单限定为准;清单中部分职业仅限 491。
对昆州的承诺获批后,承诺在昆士兰全州生活与工作至少 2 年获批后,承诺在昆州偏远地区(Regional Queensland)生活与工作至少 3 年

Building and Construction Workers

Eligibility

This financial year, Queensland has opened a special channel for applicants in the construction industry alone to alleviate the shortage of talents in the construction industry in Queensland.

State Requirement190 Nomination Requirement491 Nomination Requirement
EOI PointsAt least 65 points or above in the Home Affairs points test (includes +5 state-nomination points).At least 65 points or above in the Home Affairs points test (includes +15 state-nomination points).
OccupationMust be on the Queensland Offshore Skills List (list for offshore applicants).
Note: If you currently hold/previously held a 491/489 visa, you are not eligible to apply for 190.
Must be on the Queensland Offshore Skills List (list for offshore applicants).
Note: Some occupations on the list are restricted to the 491 only.
EnglishAt least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency).At least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency).
Work Experience
  • At least 1 year of skilled work experience closely related to the nominated occupation;
  • Only experience declared in your EOI and related to the nominated occupation is counted;
  • At invitation and at nomination decision, you must still be working in the nominated or closely related occupation.
  • At least 1 year of skilled work experience closely related to the nominated occupation;
  • Only experience declared in your EOI and related to the nominated occupation is counted;
  • At invitation and at nomination decision, you must still be working in the nominated or closely related occupation.
Visa EligibilityIf you currently hold (or have held) a 491 (or 489) visa, you cannot apply for 190 nomination.Whether you can apply for the 491 is determined by the occupation list; some occupations are 491-only.
Commitment to QueenslandAfter grant, live and work in Queensland (state-wide) for at least 2 years.After grant, live and work in Regional Queensland for at least 3 years.

State Requirement190 Nomination Requirement491 Nomination Requirement
EOI PointsAt least 65 points or above in the Home Affairs points test (includes +5 state-nomination points).At least 65 points or above in the Home Affairs points test (includes +15 state-nomination points).
OccupationMust be on the Queensland Offshore Skills List (list for offshore applicants).
Note: If you currently hold/previously held a 491/489 visa, you are not eligible to apply for 190.
Must be on the Queensland Offshore Skills List (list for offshore applicants).
Note: Some occupations on the list are restricted to the 491 only.
EnglishAt least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency).At least IELTS 6 in each band (or equivalent proficiency).
Work Experience
  • At least 1 year of skilled work experience closely related to the nominated occupation;
  • Only experience declared in your EOI and related to the nominated occupation is counted;
  • At invitation and at nomination decision, you must still be working in the nominated or closely related occupation.
  • At least 1 year of skilled work experience closely related to the nominated occupation;
  • Only experience declared in your EOI and related to the nominated occupation is counted;
  • At invitation and at nomination decision, you must still be working in the nominated or closely related occupation.
Visa EligibilityIf you currently hold (or have held) a 491 (or 489) visa, you cannot apply for 190 nomination.Whether you can apply for the 491 is determined by the occupation list; some occupations are 491-only.
Commitment to QueenslandAfter grant, live and work in Queensland (state-wide) for at least 2 years.After grant, live and work in Regional Queensland for at least 3 years.

QLD Building and Construction Occupation

ANZSCOOccupation491190
133111Construction Project ManagerYesYes
133112Project BuilderYes
133211Engineering ManagerYesYes
312111Architectural DraftspersonYesYes
312113Building InspectorYesYes
312114Construction EstimatorYes
312116Surveying Or Spatial Science TechnicianYes
312211Civil Engineering DraftspersonYesYes
312212Civil Engineering TechnicianYesYes
312311Electrical Engineering DraftspersonYesYes
312312Electrical Engineering TechnicianYesYes
312511Mechanical Engineering DraftspersonYes
312512Mechanical Engineering TechnicianYesYes
312999Building And Engineering Technicians (Nec)Yes
322211Sheetmetal WorkerYesYes
322311Metal FabricatorYesYes
322312Pressure WelderYesYes
322313Welder (First Class)YesYes
323111Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics)YesYes
323112Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical)YesYes
323113Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures)YesYes
323211Fitter (General)YesYes
323212Fitter And TurnerYesYes
323213Fitter WelderYesYes
323214Metal Machinist (First Class)YesYes
323299Metal Fitters and Machinists (Nec)YesYes
331111BricklayerYesYes
331112StonemasonYesYes
331211Carpenter And JoinerYesYes
331212CarpenterYesYes
331213JoinerYesYes
332111Floor FinisherYes
333111GlazierYesYes
333211Plasterer (Wall and Ceiling)YesYes
333212Renderer (Solid Plaster)YesYes
333311Roof TilerYesYes
333411Wall And Floor TilerYesYes
334111Plumber (General)YesYes
334112Airconditioning And Mechanical Services PlumberYesYes
334113DrainerYesYes
334114GasfitterYesYes
334115Roof PlumberYesYes
341111Electrician (General)YesYes
341112Electrician (Special Class)YesYes
342111Airconditioning And Refrigeration MechanicYesYes
342211Electrical Linesworker / Electrical Line MechanicYes

QLD University Graduates

Eligibility

International graduates who have obtained a qualified degree from the University of Queensland and are currently employed can apply for the Queensland Graduate Pathway.

International graduates from Queensland educational institutions who do not have the required qualifications must, under certain conditions, apply through the skilled worker pathway that they have already been residing in and have been working in Queensland.

State Requirement190 Nomination Requirement491 Nomination Requirement
EOI PointsAt least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, includes +5 for state nomination).At least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, includes +15 for state nomination).
OccupationMust be listed on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; some occupations are restricted to the 491 and are not eligible for the 190.
Note: Work experience in fast-food or quick-service industries as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
Must be listed on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; the list includes occupations that may only be eligible for the 491.
Note: Work experience in fast-food or quick-service industries as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
EnglishAt least IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent level of English.At least IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent level of English.
Work Experience
  • Before submitting ROI, you must have lived and worked in Queensland (state-wide) for at least the past 9 months.

  • Experience must be after completing your qualification.
  • Your ANZSCO occupation code’s first three digits must match your nominated occupation.
  • At least 20 hours per week.
  • From ROI submission to invitation, you must continue to meet the minimum hours and employment duration.
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible jobs may be combined.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office located in Queensland.

  • Before submitting ROI, you must have lived and worked in Regional Queensland for at least the past 6 months.
  • Experience must be after completing your qualification.
  • Your ANZSCO occupation code’s first three digits must match your nominated occupation.
  • At least 20 hours per week.
  • From ROI submission to invitation, you must continue to meet the minimum hours and employment duration.
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible jobs may be combined.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office located in Queensland.
Visa EligibilityIf you currently hold or previously held a 491 (or 489) visa, you are not eligible to apply for the 190 nomination.Some occupations are eligible for 491 only (as indicated on the occupation list).
Evidence of Ongoing Employment
  • From ROI to invitation, and until the decision, you must remain employed in a compliant role.
  • At least 20 hours per week; multiple eligible roles can be combined; casual work is accepted.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
  • From ROI to invitation, and until the decision, you must remain employed in a compliant role.
  • At least 20 hours per week; multiple eligible roles can be combined; casual work is accepted.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
Commitment to QueenslandAfter grant, you must live and work in Queensland (state-wide) for at least 2 years.After grant, you must live and work in Regional Queensland for at least 3 years.
State Requirement 190 Nomination Requirement 491 Nomination Requirement
EOI Points At least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, includes +5 for state nomination). At least 65 points or above (Home Affairs points test, includes +15 for state nomination).
Occupation Must be listed on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; some occupations are restricted to the 491 and are not eligible for the 190.
Note: Work experience in fast-food or quick-service industries as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
Must be listed on the Queensland Onshore Skills List; the list includes occupations that may only be eligible for the 491.
Note: Work experience in fast-food or quick-service industries as a Chef/Cook is not eligible.
English At least IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent level of English. At least IELTS 6 in each band or equivalent level of English.
Work Experience
  • Before submitting ROI, you must have lived and worked in Queensland (state-wide) for at least the past 9 months.
  • Experience must be after completing your qualification.
  • Your ANZSCO occupation code’s first three digits must match your nominated occupation.
  • At least 20 hours per week.
  • From ROI submission to invitation, you must continue to meet the minimum hours and employment duration.
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible jobs may be combined.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office located in Queensland.
  • Before submitting ROI, you must have lived and worked in Regional Queensland for at least the past 6 months.
  • Experience must be after completing your qualification.
  • Your ANZSCO occupation code’s first three digits must match your nominated occupation.
  • At least 20 hours per week.
  • From ROI submission to invitation, you must continue to meet the minimum hours and employment duration.
  • Casual work is accepted; eligible jobs may be combined.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office located in Queensland.
Visa Eligibility If you currently hold or previously held a 491 (or 489) visa, you are not eligible to apply for the 190 nomination. Some occupations are eligible for 491 only (as indicated on the occupation list).
Evidence of Ongoing Employment
  • From ROI to invitation, and until the decision, you must remain employed in a compliant role.
  • At least 20 hours per week; multiple eligible roles can be combined; casual work is accepted.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
  • From ROI to invitation, and until the decision, you must remain employed in a compliant role.
  • At least 20 hours per week; multiple eligible roles can be combined; casual work is accepted.
  • Remote or home-based work is accepted, but your employer must have a physical office in Queensland.
Commitment to Queensland After grant, you must live and work in Queensland (state-wide) for at least 2 years. After grant, you must live and work in Regional Queensland for at least 3 years.

QLD SBO

Eligibility

The Queensland Small Business category is applicable to applicants who currently reside in the Queensland region and operate small businesses. However, as of September 19, 2025, the Queensland government has closed this channel. If an applicant purchases or starts a business after September 19, 2025, they will no longer be able to apply for this channel.

This category is not an investment immigration program. It still falls under the 491 remote area state-sponsored skilled worker immigration program. Applicants still need to meet the basic requirements set by the immigration authorities for 491 visa applications.

The Queensland Small Business (SBO) category consists of two separate pathways. Applicants need to meet the requirements of either of the following two paths:

CategoryPathway 1 – Business PurchasePathway 2 – Startup
Applicable Visa491 Small Business Owner (SBO) Pathway 1 – Business Purchase491 Small Business Owner (SBO) Pathway 2 – Startup
General Requirements
  • The business and applicant must be located in an eligible regional Queensland postcode.
  • Must meet requirements under Legislative Instrument 19/051 (Eligible Postcodes).
  • The business must be operating and fully established in Queensland; ownership must be 100% by the applicant (no partnership).
  • The business and applicant must be located in an eligible regional Queensland postcode.
  • Must meet requirements under Legislative Instrument 19/051 (Eligible Postcodes).
  • The business must be operating and fully established in Queensland; ownership must be 100% by the applicant (no partnership).
Timing & Key Dates
  • Business must be purchased and settled before submitting the 491 SBO ROI.
  • Settlement date must be between 14 September 2024 and 19 September 2025.
  • Applications can be submitted up to 30 September 2025.
  • If the purchase occurs after 19 September 2025, it will be assessed under the 2025–26 program year.
  • The business must have commenced operations and be fully established (proof of ongoing activity required).
  • Startup businesses must be actively trading for at least 12 months before ROI submission.
  • Must demonstrate investment of at least AUD 200,000.
  • Key operational dates between 1 June 2024 and 30 May 2026.
Business Operation Period
  • The business must have been operating under the applicant’s ownership for at least 6 months.

  • Must show 100% ownership and full-time trading activity.
  • Must submit two BAS statements covering a minimum six-month trading period.
  • The startup must have been operating under the applicant’s ownership for at least 12 months.
  • Must submit two years of BAS statements proving trading continuity.
Investment / Purchase PriceMust provide evidence of a business purchase price of at least AUD 100,000.Must provide evidence of an investment of at least AUD 200,000 into the startup business.
Employment Requirement
  • Must employ at least one Australian citizen, PR holder, or NZ citizen for a minimum of 20 hours per week; or employ one family member under the same conditions.
  • Family employment may be accepted if supported by evidence and fair wage compliance.
  • Subclass 444 special-category visa holders are eligible to count toward this requirement.
  • No business purchase required.
  • Franchise businesses are acceptable only with a Master Franchisor agreement.
  • Must have an investment of at least AUD 200,000 and operate for at least 2 years.
Key Business Conditions
  • Purchase must be finalized through a valid Contract of Sale.
  • Vendor finance or partial financing is not accepted.
  • Cannot purchase from an immediate family member.
  • Cannot purchase a business previously used for SBO nomination.
  • Franchise businesses are acceptable only with a Master Franchisor agreement.
  • No business purchase required.
  • Franchise businesses are acceptable only with a Master Franchisor agreement.
  • Must have an investment of at least AUD 200,000 and operate for at least 2 years.
Non-Eligible Business Types
  • Businesses with the same ABN operating multiple entities under combined BAS reports.
  • Passive or investment-based operations (such as leasing or property holding).
  • Businesses with the same ABN operating multiple entities under combined BAS reports.
  • Passive or investment-based operations (such as leasing or property holding).
Visa Nomination DurationMust maintain business ownership for at least 3 years (before transferring or selling).Must maintain business ownership for at least 3 years (before transferring or selling).
Eligible PostcodesBusinesses must operate in Queensland postcodes designated as eligible regional areas under Pathway 1 regulations (e.g., 4370–4490, 4505–4519, 4550–4575, etc.).Businesses must operate in Queensland postcodes designated as eligible regional areas under Pathway 2 regulations (e.g., 4019–4022, 4035–4074, 4124–4159, 4207–4287, etc.).
Category Pathway 1 – Business Purchase Pathway 2 – Startup
Applicable Visa 491 Small Business Owner (SBO) Pathway 1 – Business Purchase 491 Small Business Owner (SBO) Pathway 2 – Startup
General Requirements
  • The business and applicant must be located in an eligible regional Queensland postcode.
  • Must meet requirements under Legislative Instrument 19/051 (Eligible Postcodes).
  • The business must be operating and fully established in Queensland; ownership must be 100% by the applicant (no partnership).
  • The business and applicant must be located in an eligible regional Queensland postcode.
  • Must meet requirements under Legislative Instrument 19/051 (Eligible Postcodes).
  • The business must be operating and fully established in Queensland; ownership must be 100% by the applicant (no partnership).
Timing & Key Dates
  • Business must be purchased and settled before submitting the 491 SBO ROI.
  • Settlement date must be between 14 September 2024 and 19 September 2025.
  • Applications can be submitted up to 30 September 2025.
  • If the purchase occurs after 19 September 2025, it will be assessed under the 2025–26 program year.
  • The business must have commenced operations and be fully established (proof of ongoing activity required).
  • Startup businesses must be actively trading for at least 12 months before ROI submission.
  • Must demonstrate investment of at least AUD 200,000.
  • Key operational dates between 1 June 2024 and 30 May 2026.
Business Operation Period
  • The business must have been operating under the applicant’s ownership for at least 6 months.
  • Must show 100% ownership and full-time trading activity.
  • Must submit two BAS statements covering a minimum six-month trading period.
  • The startup must have been operating under the applicant’s ownership for at least 12 months.
  • Must submit two years of BAS statements proving trading continuity.
Investment / Purchase Price Must provide evidence of a business purchase price of at least AUD 100,000. Must provide evidence of an investment of at least AUD 200,000 into the startup business.
Employment Requirement
  • Must employ at least one Australian citizen, PR holder, or NZ citizen for a minimum of 20 hours per week; or employ one family member under the same conditions.
  • Family employment may be accepted if supported by evidence and fair wage compliance.
  • Subclass 444 special-category visa holders are eligible to count toward this requirement.
  • Not applicable for startup owners; however, evidence of business growth and expansion is required.
Key Business Conditions
  • Purchase must be finalized through a valid Contract of Sale.
  • Vendor finance or partial financing is not accepted.
  • Cannot purchase from an immediate family member.
  • Cannot purchase a business previously used for SBO nomination.
  • Franchise businesses are acceptable only with a Master Franchisor agreement.
  • No business purchase required.
  • Franchise businesses are acceptable only with a Master Franchisor agreement.
  • Must have an investment of at least AUD 200,000 and operate for at least 2 years.
Non-Eligible Business Types
  • Businesses with the same ABN operating multiple entities under combined BAS reports.
  • Passive or investment-based operations (such as leasing or property holding).
  • Businesses with the same ABN operating multiple entities under combined BAS reports.
  • Passive or investment-based operations (such as leasing or property holding).
Visa Nomination Duration Must maintain business ownership for at least 3 years (before transferring or selling). Must maintain business ownership for at least 3 years (before transferring or selling).
Eligible Postcodes Businesses must operate in Queensland postcodes designated as eligible regional areas under Pathway 1 regulations (e.g., 4370–4490, 4505–4519, 4550–4575, etc.). Businesses must operate in Queensland postcodes designated as eligible regional areas under Pathway 2 regulations (e.g., 4019–4022, 4035–4074, 4124–4159, 4207–4287, etc.).

How the QLD Selects Candidates

In addition to meeting the minimum nomination requirements, we also take into account a range of factors to assess and select applicants who are most likely to settle successfully in Queensland.

These factors include:

  • Skills and qualifications

  • Work experience

  • Age

  • English proficiency

  • Partner skills

Action Recommendations

Whether you are considering the 190 Permanent Residence visa or the 491 Regional visa, the core focus of the Queensland nomination has shifted from “high scores” to real contribution and regional commitment.

For those planning to build a long-term future in Queensland, early preparation and strategic planning are the keys to success.

  • Comprehensive Assessment
    Understand whether you meet the Queensland nomination criteria, including whether your occupation is on the Queensland Skilled Occupation List, and review your current visa status, work experience, and English requirements.

  • Strategic Planning
    Based on your background, region, and career direction, identify the right pathway (e.g., state nomination, regional stream, or small business owner route) and ensure your employment or business activities align with the latest Migration Queensland policies.

  • Consultation
    We offer one-on-one professional consultations to help you develop a clear action plan, refine your documentation, and increase your chances of receiving an EOI invitation and state nomination.

At HECT Migration & Appeal Experts, our team has extensive experience in Queensland state nominations, the SBO business pathway, and complex skills assessments.

Our goal is not only to help you submit an application but also to design a strategic roadmap for your long-term settlement in Queensland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it getting harder to receive a 491 or 190 invitation from Queensland?

The difficulty depends on the applicant’s own profile. In 2025–26, Migration Queensland prioritises those with genuine local employment and a long-term commitment to Queensland. High scores alone are not enough — staying and contributing to Queensland is what really matters.

Queensland doesn’t rely solely on points anymore. It also considers employment status, occupation demand, visa type, and family ties. For offshore applicants, high points get attention but do not guarantee selection.

No. The occupation list is the fundamental eligibility requirement.

The government identified many short-term “buy-to-qualify” businesses lacking genuine operations. From 19 September 2025, only applicants who already purchased or established a business before that date remain eligible.

In 2025–26, Queensland’s offshore nominations focus on critical occupations and highly aligned profiles. Offshore candidates are advised to prioritise Subclass 491 and gradually transition onshore.

No. The system allows only one active ROI. Duplicate submissions can lead to rejection or a system lock. You must choose either 491 Regional or 190 Statewide.

It depends. The key is consistency and tax records. Work under 20 hours per week or without payslips and superannuation evidence usually doesn’t count as eligible employment.

ROI outcomes are not appealable, and no individual feedback is provided. Most rejections happen due to non-priority occupations, oversupply, or misalignment with state objectives.

No. You must live and work in Regional Queensland under your nomination obligation. Working in another state can jeopardize your Subclass 191 PR eligibility.

Technically yes, but it’s very unlikely to be selected. Queensland prioritises applicants who are already employed. It’s better to secure a job and work for around three months before submitting your ROI.

Note: This FAQ is general information only and not legal advice. Settings (e.g., eligibility tests, exemptions, and evidentiary rules) can change; always check the latest legislative instruments before applying.