The NSW Government has released key updates to the 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program, confirming state nomination allocations and the timing of invitation rounds and regional pathways. These changes are particularly important for skilled workers, international graduates and regional employers planning their workforce and migration pathways.
State Nominated Visa Allocations
For the 2025–26 program year, NSW has been allocated:
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2,100 Skilled Nominated visas (subclass 190)
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1,500 Skilled Work Regional visas (subclass 491)
These allocations will determine the number of nomination invitations issued across the year.
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
NSW has completed three invitation rounds so far this program year. Monthly invitation rounds will recommence from January 2026 and continue until the allocation is met.
As at December 2025, NSW has nominated approximately 25 per cent of its annual subclass 190 allocation.
Eligibility reminder:
Only occupations listed on the NSW Skills List will be considered for an invitation.
Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491)
NSW has confirmed key opening dates and criteria for the 491 program.
Pathway 1 – Work in Regional NSW
Opening date: 19 January 2026
Applicants may be eligible if they:
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Meet the minimum income threshold
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Have been employed in regional NSW for at least six months
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Hold an occupation that is eligible for the subclass 491 visa.
All eligible 491 occupations can apply under Pathway 1, provided the above criteria are met.
Processing reminder:
Applications will be processed in chronological order. Only valid applications will be placed in the processing queue.
Pathway 3 – Regional NSW Graduate
Opening date: 19 January 2026
To apply under this pathway, applicants must:
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Have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher at an education institution in a designated regional area of NSW
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Hold an occupation listed on the NSW Regional Skills List.
Applicants should review the full criteria before applying.
Pathway 2 – Invitation by NSW
NSW will assess the demand for nominations under Pathways 1 and 3 before determining whether an invitation round for Pathway 2 is required.
If needed, the earliest invitation round for Pathway 2 will occur in April 2026, with further updates to be provided if and when required.
Valid applications and processing times
A valid application is one that:
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Meets all NSW eligibility requirements at the time of application
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Includes current supporting documents, such as a skills assessment and English language test
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Ensures all supporting documents remain valid for at least five days after submission.
Assessment typically takes up to six weeks, though timeframes may vary depending on application volume.
Expedited assessment requests
Applicants may request priority processing if, within 10 working days, any of the following will occur:
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The applicant’s or partner’s current visa will expire
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The applicant’s or partner’s English language test, skills assessment or passport will expire
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The applicant will lose points for age, taking their total below the minimum points threshold.
Discover more here.
