NSW Skilled Migration Program 2025–26: Key Updates and What Applicants Need to Know

It has been a few months since these changes were introduced, and we want to ensure you have a clear, up-to-date understanding of the current requirements to apply for permanent residency in New South Wales.

NSW Skilled Migration Program – 2025–26 Update

NSW has confirmed that its 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program is not yet open. The program will open once state and territory allocations are finalised by the Department of Home Affairs.

While the program is pending release, NSW has shared that it will continue to follow a highly competitive, invitation-only selection model for both the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visas.

NSW continues to nominate applicants based on ANZSCO unit group rankings, considering competitive factors including points, English level, skilled employment, and relevant qualifications.

Who Can Be Considered for NSW Nomination?

To be eligible for NSW nomination, you must:

• Have an occupation listed under the relevant ANZSCO unit group for your visa subclass.
• Ensure that your occupation is eligible for the visa and that you hold a suitable skills assessment.
• Meet NSW’s competitive selection criteria (points, age, English, skilled work experience).

Important: Meeting eligibility criteria does not guarantee an invitation. NSW receives far more EOIs than available nomination places.

Work Experience & Points Requirements

NSW will continue to impose minimum skilled work experience requirements for each eligible unit group.
Minimum point scores also apply and vary according to demand within each occupation group.

Note: These minimums will be published once the 2025–26 NSW Skilled Lists are officially released.

SkillSelect determines ranking order within each unit group.
Changes may occur at any time, and previously submitted EOIs may be affected when eligibility criteria are updated.

NSW 190 Visa – What You Need to Know

The subclass 190 visa remains invitation only. NSW will select the highest-ranked candidates in each ANZSCO unit group. Because demand exceeds available places, applicants are encouraged to consider all other migration pathways instead of waiting solely for an NSW invitation.

NSW 491 Visa – Pathways for 2025–26

The 491 visa will continue with three nomination pathways this program year:

Pathway 1: Regional NSW Employment

You may apply directly to an eligible Regional Development Australia (RDA) office if you meet the minimum criteria and can demonstrate ongoing skilled employment in regional NSW.

Pathway 2: Invitation by Investment NSW

Candidates who meet NSW’s competitive requirements may be invited directly. Invitation rounds will occur throughout the program year once allocations are set.

Pathway 3: Study in Regional NSW

Applicants who completed an eligible qualification in regional NSW may be considered, including students impacted by study delays due to administrative or exceptional circumstances.

If selected under Pathway 2, you may live and work in any designated regional area of NSW for at least three years after your visa is granted.

What Happens Now?

We are monitoring NSW announcements closely and will publish updates as soon as the 2025–26 program officially opens.
If you would like personalised advice based on your circumstances, our Registered Migration Agents can assess your eligibility and provide a clear, step-by-step migration plan.

Bill Mitroulas

Head of Migration at Questra Immigration. Managing and overseeing the growth and performance of Questra’s team of migration agents, while maintaining a client-centric and quality-driven approach. A registered migration agent since 2015 and a member of the Migration Institute of Australia, with over 15 years’ experience in international education and 11 years in Australian Migration law.