Permanent Residency in Western Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide for Skilled Migrants and Graduates

Western Australia (WA) is one of the most promising states for skilled migrants and international graduates seeking permanent residency (PR) in Australia. With strong demand for skilled workers in healthcare, engineering, construction, IT, and hospitality, WA offers flexible 491 and 190 visa nomination programs.

At Danfe Consulting, we guide international students and skilled professionals — especially from Nepali, Indian, Filipino, and other South Asian communities — through every step of the PR journey in Western Australia.

Key PR Pathways in WA

1. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – WA State Nomination

• Offers direct PR
• Requires nomination by WA State Government
• Must meet occupation, English, work experience, and residency requirements
• Ideal for those already living and working in WA

2. Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) – WA State Nomination

• Offers a 5-year provisional visa
• Must live and work in regional WA for 3 years
• Leads to PR through Subclass 191
• Easier point thresholds and broader occupation list

WA State Nomination Streams

WA offers two major nomination streams for 190 and 491:

Graduate Stream (for international students)

• Must have studied in WA at a CRICOS-registered institution
• Completed a 2+ year qualification (Diploma, Bachelor, Master, PhD)
• Occupation must be on WA's Graduate Occupation List
• Higher chances of selection if you live in WA

General Stream (for skilled workers)

• Includes two pathways:
• General Stream – Schedule 1: More competitive
• General Stream – Schedule 2: Broader eligibility
• Requires work experience in your nominated occupation
• More suited for offshore applicants or workers from other states