The Australian government has just unveiled fresh updates for the 2025–26 skilled migration program, directly impacting aspirants aiming for the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated PR visa. With new allocations, changing state priorities and tightened competition — now is the time to revisit your application strategy carefully.
📌 What is Subclass 190 Visa?
The Subclass 190 visa is a permanent residency visa under the General Skilled Migration route that allows nominated skilled workers to live, work and settle anywhere in the nominating Australian state or territory.
To qualify, you need:
- A valid skills assessment for an occupation listed on the eligible state-skilled occupation list.
- At least 65 points according to the points-test (plus extra points if nominated by a state).
- Competent English.
- Nomination from a state government (via state skilled-migration program).
What’s New in 2025–26 for Subclass 190
- Overall Allotment & National Cuts
The national skilled-migration intake for 2025–26 has undergone adjustments. The total visa places allocated for state-nominated visas (Subclass 190) along with regional visas (Subclass 491) amount to 20,350. Out of these, 12,850 places are reserved for Subclass 190 applicants.
However — and this is important — there is a significant reduction in overall allocations compared with previous years for many states and territories. As a result, competition has increased and only high-scoring, in-demand occupation candidates are likely to get a nomination.
- State-Wise Nomination Quotas & Openings
- Some states have already opened their 2025–26 nomination programs. For example, Victoria has reopened its skilled-visa nomination for Subclass 190, albeit with a small interim allocation (initially 200 places) while the final quota is awaited.
- The emphasis is on “priority-sector” occupations — especially in digital technology, health, education, advanced manufacturing and other critical growth sectors.
- Another state, New South Wales (NSW), has begun sending invitations under Subclass 190 for 2025–26. However, with only limited interim places (200 for 190 and 180 for the regional 491), the competition is fierce. If you plan to apply via Subclass 190, it’s advisable to monitor state-wise nomination updates — as every state has its own labour demand, quota, and priorities for 2025–26.
Occupations in Demand (2025) Under Subclass 190
If your occupation features on the eligible lists and matches state labour demand, your chances are better. As per the recent Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and state lists:
Some in-demand occupations for Subclass 190 (MLTSSL / state-sponsored lists) include:
- Accountant (General) – ANZSCO Code 221111
- Construction Project Manager (ANZSCO 133111)
- Engineering Manager (ANZSCO 133211)
- Nursing Clinical Director / Healthcare Managers – for healthcare/medical management roles.
- Various managers and specialists across care, welfare, health and community services — depending on state’s nominated occupation list. Because each state has its own “State Skilled Occupation List,” the demand may vary. For example, certain tech or healthcare occupations might be more in demand in Victoria, while engineering or construction-related occupations might be priority in other states.
Tip: Always check the most recent occupation list of the state you plan to get nominated from — and ensure your ANZSCO code matches.
⚠️ What’s Challenging in 2025–26
Due to the tight quotas and increased competition, there are some challenges for Subclass 190 applicants this year:
- Reduced state allocation in many states makes it much harder to get nomination, even if you meet the base criteria.
- States are prioritizing critical-skill occupations — especially in high-demand sectors like healthcare, technology, engineering, education, manufacturing. Applicants in “common” or low-demand occupations will likely face longer waiting times or fewer invitations.
- For states with interim allocations (like Victoria, NSW), the final invitation rounds may take time — so aspirants must keep their Expression of Interest (EOI) active and be prepared to act fast when nomination opens.
✅ What You — As an Aspirant — Should Do Right Now
- Check if your occupation is on the latest eligible lists (MLTSSL / state-specific list). Use the correct ANZSCO code.
- Ensure your points score is strong — above the minimum. Having 70+ or higher (with state nomination) improves your chances, especially when competition is higher.
- Find which state’s demand fits your occupation & skills. A state with fewer applicants and demand for your occupation increases your likelihood.
- Submit or update your EOI on Skill Select — and be ready for fast action once your state offers a nomination.
- Keep documents ready — skills assessment, English proficiency, work experience proof, educational certificates, etc. Since each state checks rigorously.
Final Thoughts
For 2025–26, the Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa remains a valuable path to permanent residency in Australia. But with reduced quotas and heightened demand for only certain priority occupations — the competition has become tougher.
If you belong to a high-demand occupation (accounts, engineering, project management, healthcare, allied professionals) — this is the time to act decisively. Ensure your profile is strong, EOI is up to date, and you are flexible about which state you apply via.
With the right preparation and timing — your dream of permanent residency in Australia via Subclass 190 in 2025 could still become a reality.
