The NSW Government has confirmed major updates to its 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program, outlining visa allocations and critical timelines that will guide skilled migration into the state over the next year. These changes will directly impact skilled workers, international graduates, and regional employers across NSW, including those in the Murray region.
2025–26 State Nomination Allocations
NSW has received the following visa allocations for the upcoming program year:
2,100 Skilled Nominated visas (subclass 190)
1,500 Skilled Work Regional visas (subclass 491)
These figures will define the number of nomination invitations issued across the year, with a strong focus on addressing workforce needs in regional areas.
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
As of December 2025, approximately 25% of the subclass 190 allocation has been used. NSW will recommence monthly invitation rounds in January 2026, continuing until the full allocation is met.
Eligibility Reminder: Invitations will only be issued for occupations listed on the current NSW Skills List.
Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
Three distinct pathways are available for subclass 491 applicants, with key opening dates and eligibility requirements now confirmed:
Pathway 1 – Work in Regional NSW
Opening date: 19 January 2026
Eligibility: Applicants must meet the minimum income threshold, be employed in regional NSW for at least six months, and have an occupation eligible for the subclass 491 visa.
All eligible occupations may apply under this pathway, provided the above criteria are met.
Pathway 3 – Regional NSW Graduate
Opening date: 19 January 2026
Eligibility: Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher in a designated regional area of NSW and hold an occupation listed on the NSW Regional Skills List.
Applicants are advised to review the full criteria prior to applying.
Pathway 2 – Invitation by NSW
NSW will monitor demand for Pathways 1 and 3 before confirming whether a Pathway 2 invitation round will occur.
If required, the earliest round for this pathway will be in April 2026.
Valid Applications and Assessment
To be considered valid, applications must:
Meet all NSW eligibility requirements at the time of submission
Include current supporting documents (skills assessment, English test, etc.)
Ensure documents remain valid for at least five days post-submission
Standard assessment timeframe: up to six weeks, depending on volume.
Expedited Assessments
Applicants may request priority processing if, within 10 working days, they or their partner face any of the following:
Visa expiration
Expiry of English test, skills assessment or passport
Loss of age-related points dropping them below the threshold
For more information visit the NSW Government Website.
