Important Updates on the NSW Skilled Migration Program 2025–26

The New South Wales Government has released its NSW skilled migration allocations and key program updates for the 2025–26 program year.

State Nominated Visa Allocations

For the 2025–26 program year, NSW has been allocated:

2,100 nominations for the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)

1,500 nominations for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491)

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

To date, NSW has completed three invitation rounds for the 2025–26 year.Monthly invitation rounds will recommence in January 2026 and continue until the annual allocation is reached. NSW advise ss of December 2025, approximately 25 per cent of the allocation has been used.

Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

NSW has announced reopening dates for two key application pathways under this program:

Pathway 1 – Work in Regional NSW

Pathway 3 – Regional NSW GraduateBoth pathways will open on 19 January 2026. Applications will be processed in the order they are received, provided they meet validity criteria.

Pathway 1 – Work in Regional NSW

Applicants who meet the minimum income threshold and have been employed for at least six months in a regional NSW occupation eligible for the subclass 491 visa can apply under Pathway 1.

Pathway 3 – Regional NSW Graduate

To apply under Pathway 3, applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher from an education institution in a designated regional area of NSW. Only occupations listed on the NSW Regional Skills List are eligible.

Pathway 2 – Invitation by NSW

Invitation rounds under Pathway 2 will only occur if required, after assessing demand for nominations under Pathways 1 and 3. The earliest possible round, if needed, will take place in April 2026, with further updates provided in advance.

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Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please get in touch with SCA Connect.