South Australia is quickly becoming a top choice for skilled migration, with a strong focus on filling its workforce and growing the economy. The newest report from the Department of Home Affairs (ending 30 June 2025) shows a big jump in primary skilled visa grants, highlighting the strength of SA's skilled program.
For you, the applicant, this information is more than just numbers. It is a practical guide to help you plan a successful visa strategy. At Australian Migration Agents, our team helps applicants like you find the best pathways and navigate the specific requirements for state nomination.
SA's Skilled Program: What the Data Shows
The June 2025 report shows that South Australia granted 2,350 primary skilled visas. This is a massive 68.3% increase from the previous year. This growth proves the state is serious about attracting skilled talent to support its development.
These numbers also match the national focus on using skilled migration to fill critical shortages. For applicants, understanding these trends is key to knowing what SA is looking for and securing your path to permanent residency.
Our registered migration agents can help you understand what this data means for your specific situation. Chat with us today.
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Key Visa Pathways in South Australia
Choosing the right visa is the most important step. The most common pathways for skilled professionals in South Australia include:
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
This is a permanent visa for skilled professionals nominated by the South Australian Government. Applicants must have a job on the state's eligible occupation list, a valid skills assessment, and meet all other visa criteria, including English and points test requirements.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
This is a 5-year provisional visa for applicants who are willing to live and work in designated regional areas. This visa provides a clear route to permanent residency after you meet the regional work and residence requirements.
Employer-Sponsored Pathways
Getting a job offer from an SA employer is also a strong option. Employer-sponsored visas are often a direct route to permanent residency, but the process can be complex and requires careful preparation from both you and the employer.
In-Demand Industries and Top Jobs in SA
The report identifies the specific sectors that are driving demand for skilled migrants in South Australia. For 2024–25, these industries were the most significant:
- Health Care and Social Assistance: 580 grants (a 103.1% increase)
- Accommodation and Food Services: 350 grants (a huge 275.0% increase)
- Manufacturing: 240 grants (a 27.7% increase)
- Professional, Scientific and Technical Services: 240 grants (a 19.8% increase)
- Construction: 220 grants (a 149.4% increase)
- Other Services: 260 grants (a 56.4% increase)
The top occupations in demand include Chefs, Resident Medical Officers, Motor Mechanics, and Registered Nurses, along with strong demand for international graduates in skilled trades.
Tip: This data clearly shows that South Australia is urgently looking for professionals in healthcare, trades, and hospitality. If your skills are in these areas, you may have very good migration prospects.
Wondering if your occupation is in demand? Our team can review your profile and check it against SA's latest lists.
Where Are SA's Skilled Migrants From?
Applicants from all over the world contributed to South Australia’s skilled migration growth. The top citizenship countries for 2024–25 include:
- Philippines: 460 grants (+53.0%)
- India: 420 grants (+123.3%)
- United Kingdom: 190 grants (+28.7%)
- Nepal: 150 grants (an incredible +668.4% increase)
- Malaysia: 90 grants (+155.6%)
- China: 90 grants (+79.6%)
Other key countries included Sri Lanka, Brazil, Colombia, Vietnam, Pakistan, and South Africa.
How State Nomination Works with Home Affairs
The skilled migration process has two main parts. The Department of Home Affairs sets the rules and grants the final visa. But state governments, like South Australia, play a key role in nominating applicants.
SA's nomination programs are updated often to reflect the changing needs of the state's economy. Applicants must stay informed about which occupations are on the list, which sectors are a priority, and any regional rules. Our team at Australian Migration Agents monitors these changes to provide you with up-to-date advice.
Tip: A state's occupation list can change with little notice. It's important to have your application documents, like your skills assessment and English test, ready to go.
Let Us Guide Your South Australian Visa Journey
The South Australian skilled migration program offers fantastic opportunities, but the application process is very technical. Even small mistakes in your paperwork can lead to delays or refusals.
At Australian Migration Agents, we work with skilled professionals to:
- Check your eligibility under South Australia’s latest nomination rules.
- Develop a migration strategy based on your occupation and the state's demand.
- Manage the preparation and lodgement of your skilled visa application.
With South Australia’s skilled program growing so quickly, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Contact Australian Migration Agents today for friendly, expert guidance on your South Australian skilled migration journey.
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