NSW Skilled Migration 2025-26: Visa Updates, Priority Sectors & Skills Lists

The New South Wales (NSW) Government has released interim details for the 2025-26 Skilled Migration Program, following a limited allocation from the Department of Home Affairs. The current allocations include:

• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): 200 places

• Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491): 180 places

An invitation round for the Subclass 190 visa is expected next week (20-25 October 2025), while the state awaits its full nomination allocation.

NSW Priority Sectors for 2025-26:

• Construction (infrastructure and housing)

• Net Zero and Energy Transition

• Care and Support Economy

• Digital and Cyber

• Agriculture and Agrifood

• Advanced Manufacturing

Published Skills Lists:

NSW has released updated Skills Lists at the ANZSCO unit group level for both Subclass 190 and Subclass 491. Only occupations on these lists are eligible for nomination—those not listed will not be considered.

Subclass 491 Visa Update:

Applications for Subclass 491 visas (all pathways) are currently closed to new applicants.

This year’s NSW State Migration Plan supports critical sectors and national goals such as increasing housing supply, driving clean energy transition, and strengthening the care workforce. Make sure you're fully prepared to take advantage of this limited opportunity.

Important Reminder:

Make sure your SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) is completely up to date, especially your English test results and skills assessment validity. You must also have all supporting evidence ready to go in case you receive an invitation—missing documents or outdated claims can cause you to miss out on this opportunity.

Need Help with Your EOI?

If you're unsure whether your EOI is ready or need help reviewing or updating it, get in touch with our team today. It’s essential to act now so you're prepared before the invitation round begins.