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Updated September 2025
South Australia Skilled Occupation List
2025–2026
Your complete and updated guide to South Australia's state nomination program — nomination streams, priority sectors, visa pathways, eligibility requirements, and the full SA occupation list for 2025–26.
Table of Contents
South Australia Skilled Migration 2025–2026 — Program Overview
South Australia (SA) is an increasingly popular destination for skilled migrants seeking a practical and competitive route to Australian permanent residency. Its state nomination program is widely regarded as more accessible than larger states like Victoria or New South Wales, making it a smart choice for applicants who want a realistic pathway to Australia PR.
For the 2025–26 program year, South Australia's updated Skilled Occupation List came into effect in September 2025. The state has refined its priorities to focus on addressing critical workforce gaps across healthcare, construction, technology, education, and agriculture.
3,800
Total Nomination Places 2025–26
3,000
Subclass 190 Places (Permanent)
800
Subclass 491 Places (Regional)
65+
Minimum Points Required
Key Update — September 2025: South Australia officially released its updated Skilled Migration Occupation List for the 2025–26 program year, effective 30 September 2025. The list is open to both onshore and offshore applicants, with stronger alignment between occupation demand and nomination outcomes. Always verify the current list at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before applying.
Understanding South Australia's Skilled Occupation List
The South Australia skilled occupation list — also referred to as the South Australia state occupation list, South Australia occupation list, or SA migration list — is the set of roles that South Australia is currently prepared to consider for state nomination under its skilled visa program.
When your occupation appears on this list, it signals that South Australia has identified a workforce need in that area. However, appearing on the list does not guarantee a nomination invitation. It is the first checkpoint, not the final one.
SA Occupation List vs Federal Occupation Lists — What's the Difference?
This is one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of Australian skilled migration. The two lists serve different purposes:
- Federal occupation lists (SOL, STSOL, ROL) determine which visa subclasses you are eligible to apply for under the national Department of Home Affairs framework.
- The South Australia occupation list determines whether SA is currently willing to nominate you for those visas based on its own labour market priorities.
Think of it this way: the federal government sets the rules of the game, while South Australia decides which players it wants on its team. For applicants who are eligible at the federal level but not receiving regular invitations, SA state nomination can be a powerful alternative route.
Why SA Nomination Matters: A South Australia state nomination under Subclass 190 adds 5 bonus points to your SkillSelect EOI. Under Subclass 491, it adds 15 bonus points. In a competitive environment where a few points can mean the difference between being invited and waiting indefinitely, SA nomination can be a game-changer for your Australia PR journey.
Does the SA Occupation List Change?
Yes. The South Australia state occupation list is reviewed and updated regularly based on shifting labour market needs. Occupations can be added when shortages grow, removed when demand stabilises, or temporarily paused when nomination places fill quickly. Relying on outdated information is one of the most avoidable mistakes applicants make. Always check the current list before building your migration strategy.
Visa Pathways Under the SA Occupation List — Subclass 190 & 491
South Australia offers two distinct state nomination visa pathways. Choosing the right one depends on your occupation, points score, and willingness to commit to living in South Australia.
Subclass 190
Skilled Nominated Visa — Permanent
South Australia's most competitive nomination pathway. Leads directly to permanent residency, allowing you to live and work anywhere in Australia without restrictions.
Visa TypePermanent Residency
2025–26 Places3,000
Points Bonus+5 Points
Work RightsUnlimited
Age LimitUnder 45 at nomination
Read More about Subclass 190 →
Subclass 491
Skilled Work Regional Visa — Provisional
A 5-year provisional visa for applicants willing to live and work in regional South Australia. After 3 years meeting residency and income requirements, you can apply for the Subclass 191 permanent visa.
Visa TypeProvisional (5 Years)
2025–26 Places800
Points Bonus+15 Points
PR PathwaySubclass 191
Age LimitUnder 45 at nomination
Read More about Subclass 491 →
South Australia's Four Nomination Streams 2025–2026
Unlike some other states that use a single application process, South Australia manages its nomination through four distinct streams. Each stream targets a different type of applicant, and understanding which stream applies to you is critical before submitting your Registration of Interest (ROI).
Graduate Stream
For international students who studied in South Australia and are currently living and working in the state. Strong employment outcomes in priority sectors are required.
Onshore Skilled Worker Stream
For skilled migrants already in South Australia on a temporary visa, currently working in their nominated or closely related occupation. Most competitive stream.
Offshore Stream
For skilled migrants living overseas. Applicants must hold a competitive points score and an occupation in high demand. Competition is tight due to limited offshore allocation.
Business and Skilled Stream
For applicants with a genuine connection to South Australia through a job offer or business sponsorship. Typically requires a formal offer from an SA-based employer.
Important for Offshore Applicants (e.g., from Pakistan): If you are applying from outside Australia, you must have your occupation open under the Offshore Stream of the SA Skilled Occupation List. For most occupations, a minimum of three years of skilled employment in your nominated or closely related occupation within the last five years is required. Certain construction trades only require one year within the previous three years.
Priority Industry Sectors — South Australia 2025–2026
South Australia's updated occupation list is strategically structured to prioritise the sectors with the most urgent workforce needs. Applicants working in these fields have the strongest nomination prospects for both Subclass 190 and Subclass 491.
🏥 Health Professions
Registered Nurses, GPs, Specialists, Allied Health
🏗️ Trades & Construction
Electricians, Carpenters, Plumbers, Bricklayers
💻 ICT Professionals
Software Engineers, ICT Analysts, Developers
📚 Education
Teachers, Education Administrators, Early Childhood
🌾 Agriculture & Farming
Farm Managers, Agricultural Scientists, Agronomists
⚙️ Engineering
Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Structural Engineers
🤝 Social Services
Social Workers, Welfare Workers, Community Officers
🍽️ Hospitality & Retail
Chefs, Hotel Managers, Restaurant Managers
Eligibility Requirements for SA State Nomination
Having your occupation on the South Australia occupation list is the starting point, not the finish line. Migration SA evaluates your complete profile when selecting candidates for nomination. You generally need to meet all of the following criteria:
- Active EOI in SkillSelect: You must maintain an active Expression of Interest with South Australia listed as your preferred state or territory.
- Eligible Occupation: Your nominated occupation must appear on SA's current Skilled Occupation List and be open under your relevant nomination stream.
- Skills Assessment: A valid, positive skills assessment from the relevant Australian assessing authority for your ANZSCO occupation code.
- Points Score: A minimum of 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs points test (including state nomination bonus points).
- English Proficiency: At least Competent English (IELTS 6 in each band). Some occupations requiring registration or licensing in SA may require higher English levels.
- Age: Under 45 years of age at the time of nomination approval.
- Work Experience: Generally, at least 3 years of skilled employment in your nominated or closely related occupation within the last 5 years. Construction trades require 1 year within the last 3 years.
- Commitment to SA: A genuine willingness to live and work in South Australia (or regional SA for Subclass 491) after visa grant.
- Completed Skilled Work After Study: Skilled employment must have been completed after finishing your course of study, not during it.
Response Time After Invitation: Once South Australia invites you to apply for nomination, you must submit your complete nomination application within 14 days. Prepare all documents well in advance — do not wait for an invitation to start gathering your paperwork.
How to Apply for South Australia State Nomination — Step by Step
-
1
Confirm Your Occupation on the SA List
Search for your occupation by name or ANZSCO code on the current Department of Home Affairs and Migration SA websites. Confirm it is open under your relevant stream (onshore, offshore, graduate, or business).
-
2
Complete Skills Assessment
Obtain a positive skills assessment from the correct Australian assessing authority for your ANZSCO occupation. This step can take 2–6 months, so start early.
-
3
Take Your English Language Test
Complete an approved English test — IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or OET. Aim for the highest possible score. Use our AU Points Calculator to see how your English score affects your overall points.
-
4
Submit EOI via SkillSelect
Log in to your ImmiAccount and submit your Expression of Interest via SkillSelect. Select South Australia as your preferred state and nominate your visa subclass (190, 491, or both).
-
5
Submit Registration of Interest (ROI) to Migration SA
Submit a Registration of Interest through the Migration SA portal. This is separate from your federal EOI and is specific to South Australia's selection process. Migration SA will assess your ROI against all other applicants in your occupation.
-
6
Receive Nomination Invitation and Apply Within 14 Days
If selected, Migration SA will send you a nomination invitation. You must submit your full nomination application within 14 days. Have all documents ready — skills assessment, employment evidence, English test results, and identity documents.
-
7
Lodge Visa Application with the Department of Home Affairs
Once your SA nomination is approved, lodge your visa application through ImmiAccount. Include all required supporting documents: police clearances, medical examination, identity documents, and full work history evidence.
South Australia's Skilled Occupation List 2025–2026 — Official Categories
Official Source: The occupation categories and occupations listed below are sourced from the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs and Migration SA. These are official government categories and are reproduced as published. Always verify the current list at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before applying, as the list is subject to periodic updates.
South Australia Skilled Occupation List — All Categories
Official — Dept. of Home Affairs
📌 Source: Australian Government — Department of Home Affairs & Migration SA | Effective 30 September 2025 |
View Official List at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au →
| Occupation Category | Visa Pathway | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Farmers and Farm Managers | 190491 | Regional and offshore streams available |
| Specialist Managers | 190491 | Subject to occupation-specific requirements |
| Hospitality, Retail & Service Managers | 190491 | High demand in regional SA |
| Arts & Media Professionals | 190 | Limited places; competitive profile required |
| Business, Human Resource & Marketing Professionals | 190491 | Strong work experience required |
| Design, Engineering, Science & Transport Professionals | 190491 | Engineers Australia or VETASSESS assessment required |
| Education Professionals | 190491 | AITSL assessment; high priority in regional SA |
| Health Professionals | 190491 | Highest priority — nurses, GPs, allied health in strong demand |
| ICT Professionals | 190491 | ACS assessment required; software and network roles prioritised |
| Legal, Social & Welfare Professionals | 190491 | Social workers and welfare roles in strong demand |
| Engineering, ICT & Science Technicians | 190491 | TRA or Engineers Australia assessment depending on role |
| Automotive & Engineering Trades Workers | 190491 | TRA assessment; mechanics, fitters, welders included |
| Construction Trades Workers | 190491 | Only 1 year experience required within last 3 years for offshore |
| Electrotechnology & Telecommunications Trades Workers | 190491 | TRA assessment; electricians and telecoms in demand |
| Food Trades Workers | 190491 | Chefs, bakers, pastrycooks included |
| Skilled Animal & Horticultural Workers | 491 | Primarily regional SA; strong agricultural demand |
| Other Technicians & Trades Workers | 190491 | Subject to individual occupation eligibility checks |
| Health & Welfare Support Workers | 190491 | Aged care, disability and community workers prioritised |
| Protective Services Workers | 190 | Limited availability; specific occupations apply |
| Sports & Personal Service Workers | 190 | Selective; VETASSESS assessment typically required |
| Office Managers & Program Administrators | 190 | VETASSESS assessment; senior roles only |
| Other Clerical and Administrative Workers | 190 | Limited; strong employment record required |
| Sales Representatives & Agents | 190 | VETASSESS assessment; specific ICT sales roles included |
| Sales Support Workers | 190 | Limited availability; check current demand status |
Disclaimer: This table presents occupation categories as published by Migration SA and the Department of Home Affairs. Individual occupation eligibility, stream availability, and assessing authority requirements may vary. The list is subject to change without notice. Always confirm your specific ANZSCO occupation code directly at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au or through a registered migration agent before submitting your EOI.
Frequently Asked Questions — South Australia State Nomination
What is South Australia's skilled occupation list used for? +
It identifies which occupations South Australia is currently willing to nominate for skilled migration under the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visa programs. It forms part of the broader Australia Immigration framework managed by the Department of Home Affairs.
Is the South Australia occupation list the same as the federal list? +
No. Federal occupation lists (SOL, STSOL, ROL) determine visa eligibility nationally. The South Australia occupation list reflects state-specific workforce priorities and determines whether SA will nominate you, separate from federal rules.
Does being on the SA occupation list guarantee a nomination? +
No. Appearing on the list makes you eligible to be considered — it does not guarantee an invitation. South Australia compares all applicants within the same occupation and selects those with the strongest overall profiles.
Can the South Australia state occupation list change during the year? +
Yes. The list is reviewed and updated based on labour market demand and program place availability. Occupations can be added, removed, or paused at any time. Always verify the current list before submitting your application.
Is South Australia a good option for Pakistani applicants seeking Australia PR? +
Yes, for many Pakistani applicants South Australia offers a more competitive and accessible state nomination pathway than larger states. With 3,800 total places and a broad occupation list covering healthcare, engineering, ICT, and trades — it is one of the most practical routes to Australia PR for qualified Pakistani professionals.
What is the minimum points score required for SA nomination? +
The minimum is 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs points test, including state nomination bonus points. However, in practice, competitive applicants typically hold higher scores — particularly in high-demand occupations like nursing and teaching where 80+ points is common.
South Australia State Nomination for Pakistani Applicants
South Australia is one of the most recommended state nomination pathways for Pakistani skilled professionals. Its broader occupation list, larger allocation of places compared to some states, and strong demand in sectors where Pakistani professionals excel — healthcare, engineering, IT, and construction — make it an ideal choice.
Top Occupations for Pakistani Applicants in South Australia
- Healthcare: Registered Nurses, General Practitioners, Physiotherapists, Medical Specialists — all in high demand across SA hospitals and clinics.
- Engineering: Civil, Structural, Electrical, Mechanical, and Environmental Engineers — essential for SA's infrastructure and energy projects.
- Information Technology: Software Engineers, ICT Business Analysts, ICT Security Specialists — SA's growing tech sector actively recruits internationally.
- Construction Trades: Electricians, Carpenters, Plumbers, Bricklayers — strong ongoing demand with an easier experience requirement (1 year for offshore).
- Education: Secondary and Primary School Teachers, Special Education Teachers — Education SA has ongoing shortages across the state.
- Agriculture: Farm Managers, Agricultural Scientists — SA's wine, grain, and livestock industries create consistent demand for skilled agricultural professionals.
Why Choose Immigration Experts for Your SA Nomination?
Navigating state nomination is complex. Every occupation has different requirements, every stream has different conditions, and the list itself can change. Immigration Experts has guided thousands of Pakistani professionals through successful Australian immigration journeys. Our registered migration consultants in Islamabad, Lahore, and Faisalabad will assess your profile, identify the right stream and visa pathway, and handle your application from start to finish.
Get a Free Eligibility Assessment: Before making any decisions about South Australia state nomination, get your profile assessed by an expert. We will check whether your occupation is on the current SA list, calculate your points score, and recommend the best visa pathway for your situation. Start your Free Assessment here →
Is Your Occupation on the South Australia List? Find Out Now.
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