The NSW Government has released the latest updates for the NSW Skilled Migration Program 2025–26. These changes affect both the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491). Understanding these changes can help applicants prepare early and maximise their chances of receiving a nomination.
For the 2025–26 program year, NSW has received the following nomination allocations:
These allocations guide how many applicants NSW can nominate throughout the program year.
So far, NSW has completed three invitation rounds for this program year. Monthly invitation rounds will recommence from January 2026 and continue until the annual allocation is filled. As of December 2025, NSW has already nominated around 25% of its annual 190 visa allocation.
Only occupations listed on the NSW Skills List will be considered for a Subclass 190 invitation.
The Skilled Work Regional visa offers three pathways for nomination. NSW has announced important updates regarding these pathways:
Pathway 1 – Work in Regional NSW
This pathway will open on 19 January 2026. Applicants must meet the minimum income threshold and have been employed for at least six months in regional NSW. Any occupation eligible for the Subclass 491 visa can be used under Pathway 1.
Pathway 3 – Regional NSW Graduate
Also opening on 19 January 2026, this pathway requires applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher from an education institution located in a designated regional area of NSW. Only occupations listed on the NSW Regional Skills List are valid for this pathway.
Pathway 2 – Invitation by NSW
Invitation rounds under Pathway 2 will only occur if required. The earliest possible invitation round is expected in April 2026. NSW will provide further updates if a round is scheduled.
To be considered a valid application, applicants must meet all NSW eligibility criteria at the time of application. They must also provide valid supporting documents, including:
Applications that do not meet these requirements will not be placed in the processing queue.
Application assessments generally take up to six weeks but may vary based on volume. Applicants can request priority processing if any of the following events are expected to occur within ten working days:
Summary
With updated visa allocations, pathway opening dates, and eligibility requirements, the 2025–26 NSW Skilled Migration Program provides several opportunities for skilled professionals planning to live and work in NSW. Applicants should prepare early, ensure all documents remain valid, and meet the specific criteria for their chosen pathway.
If you need guidance on the best pathway, eligibility requirements, or how to strengthen your application, you can Contact Migration Dreamz to explore your options.
NSW has been allocated 2,100 nominations for the Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa for the 2025–26 program year.
Monthly invitation rounds will resume from January 2026.
NSW received 1,500 nomination places for the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visa.
Both pathways open on 19 January 2026.
A valid application must meet all eligibility requirements at the time of submission and include valid English, skills assessment, and supporting documents that remain valid for at least five days.
