Australia is one of the most popular destinations for skilled Nigerian migrants, offering a clear points-based immigration system with multiple pathways to permanent residence. This guide covers the most relevant Australian visa options for Nigerian applicants in 2026.
Skilled Migration Visas: The Points-Based System
Subclass 189 — Skilled Independent Visa
Permanent residence from the first day, with no employer or state sponsor required. You must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, score at least 65 points on the points test, and receive an invitation to apply. Your occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list. Competition varies significantly by occupation — some roles receive invitations at 65 points while others require 90 or more.
Subclass 190 — Skilled Nominated Visa
Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory government. Nomination adds five points to your SkillSelect score, making borderline applications competitive. Each state has its own occupation priority list and nomination requirements. Check the current lists on state government websites, as they are updated regularly.
Subclass 491 — Skilled Work Regional Visa
A provisional five-year visa for regional Australia. Adds 15 points to your SkillSelect score — the single largest bonus available. After three years of living and working in a designated regional area, you become eligible to apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Subclass 191. This pathway is increasingly popular for applicants whose points score is not competitive for an independent skilled visa.
Points Test Summary
| Factor | Points Available |
|---|---|
| Age 25–32 | 30 |
| Age 33–39 | 25 |
| Age 40–44 | 15 |
| PhD | 20 |
| Bachelor’s/Master’s | 15 |
| Diploma/Trade | 10 |
| Superior English (IELTS 8.0+) | 20 |
| Proficient English (IELTS 7.0+) | 10 |
| Competent English (IELTS 6.0+) | 0 |
| 8+ years overseas skilled experience | 15 |
| 5–7 years overseas skilled experience | 10 |
| 3–4 years overseas skilled experience | 5 |
| Australian partner or de facto | 10 |
| State nomination (190) | 5 |
| Regional nomination/sponsorship (491) | 15 |
Employer-Sponsored: TSS Subclass 482
The Temporary Skill Shortage visa allows approved Australian employers to hire overseas workers. Medium-term stream positions (roles on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List) are granted for up to four years and can lead to permanent residence through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) after three years. Finding an Australian sponsor follows a similar process to the UK: identify employers approved to sponsor on the Department of Home Affairs register, target sectors with persistent shortages, and apply directly.
How to Apply: Step by Step
- Confirm your occupation is on the relevant Australian skilled occupation list
- Have your skills assessed by the designated assessing authority for your occupation (e.g., Engineers Australia, ANMAC for nurses, VETASSESS for many trade and professional occupations)
- Take an IELTS or PTE Academic test and achieve the required scores for your target visa
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect — free and non-binding
- Await an invitation to apply, then lodge your formal visa application through ImmiAccount
- Provide all supporting documents and await a decision
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