NSW Skilled Nominated Visa: October 2026 Invitation Round Update

The New South Wales (NSW) Government has reopened its Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) nomination program for 2026–27, with the first invitation round expected in the week commencing 19 October 2026.

The NSW Skills List has also been updated, giving skilled migrants an important reason to review their eligibility and Expression of Interest (EOI).

While invitations have been reported in October, NSW has not published verified occupation-specific invitation scores or a complete breakdown of the round.

What Is the NSW Subclass 190 Nomination?

The Subclass 190 visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa requiring nomination by an Australian state or territory government.

NSW nomination provides 5 additional points towards the federal skilled migration points test.

However, meeting the minimum points requirement does not guarantee an invitation. NSW considers several factors, including occupation, English proficiency, qualifications, skilled work experience and points score.

Key Update: October 2026 Invitation Round

The NSW 190 program is open for 2026–27, with an updated occupation list reflecting the state's workforce priorities.

Here are the key requirements applicants should check:

• Eligible Occupations: Your nominated occupation must be eligible for the 190 visa and fall within an ANZSCO unit group on the current NSW Skills List.
• Points and Selection: NSW considers multiple factors when selecting applicants. There is no confirmed official minimum invitation score for the October round.
• Residency Requirements: Applicants must meet NSW's onshore or offshore eligibility criteria.
• Invitation Deadline: Once invited, applicants have just 14 days to submit their NSW nomination application. Extensions are not available.

Importantly, the NSW Subclass 491 nomination program remains closed to new applications across its pathways at the time of this update.

Who Is Affected?

This update is particularly relevant to:

• Skilled workers living or working in NSW who are planning to apply for permanent residency.
• Offshore applicants who meet NSW's eligibility requirements.
• Applicants with an active SkillSelect EOI who have not yet received an invitation.
• Applicants whose occupation falls within the updated NSW Skills List.

For onshore applicants, NSW requires either paid employment in the nominated occupation in NSW for at least 20 hours per week, or at least six months of continuous residence in NSW.

Offshore applicants must have lived outside Australia continuously for at least six months.

How NSW Invitation Rounds Work

NSW conducts invitation rounds throughout the financial year without publicly announcing fixed dates.

Unlike a simple points-ranking system, NSW considers factors such as age, English proficiency, education, points and skilled work experience when selecting eligible EOIs.

Submitting your EOI earlier does not give you priority. NSW confirms that the date an EOI is submitted or amended does not affect the likelihood of receiving an invitation.

Even if your occupation appears on the NSW Skills List, an invitation is not guaranteed.

Practical Steps for Applicants

1. Review your EOI: Ensure your points, employment history, English results and personal information are accurate.
2. Check your occupation: Confirm that your occupation meets both NSW nomination and federal visa requirements.
3. Verify your eligibility: Check the applicable residency requirements and ensure your skills assessment remains valid.
4. Prepare your documents: With only 14 days to apply after receiving an invitation, supporting evidence should be ready in advance.
5. Explore alternative pathways: If NSW 190 is not suitable, consider whether other skilled or employer-sponsored visa options may be available.

Key Takeaways

• NSW Subclass 190 nominations have reopened for 2026–27.
• The NSW Skills List has been updated.
• Invitation selection considers more than just points.
• Successful invitees have 14 days to lodge their NSW nomination application.
• Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee an invitation.

Is Your EOI Ready for the Next NSW Invitation?

An outdated EOI, an unsupported points claim or an expired document could put your migration plans at risk.

Whether you are waiting for an invitation or have already received one, Riverwood Migration's immigration lawyers can help review your eligibility, assess your supporting documents and explore suitable permanent residency pathways.

Contact Riverwood Migration to discuss your NSW 190 options and take the next step with confidence.

The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.

Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer

For skilled migration and skills assessment matters, we recommend speaking with Scott Gan, our lawyer specialising in points-tested visas and occupation skills assessments. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.

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