NSW Subclass 190 Nominations Closed for 2025–26

New South Wales confirmed on 7 May 2026 that it has exhausted its Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa allocation for the 2025–26 program year. No further invitations will be issued under this stream until the federal government releases the 2026–27 state quotas, expected in July 2026.

The early closure was driven by record volumes of Expressions of Interest (EOIs) submitted after occupation list changes in February 2026, particularly from offshore engineers, ICT professionals, and healthcare workers. Demand simply outpaced the available places before the financial year ended.

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

If you hold an active EOI for NSW 190 and have not yet received an invitation, you will not receive one under the current program year. Your EOI remains lodged in SkillSelect, but NSW will not draw from it again until the new allocation is confirmed.

This is a significant disruption for applicants who structured their Australian migration plan around a NSW 190 nomination, particularly those already onshore on a temporary visa nearing expiry.

NSW Subclass 491 Invitations Continue

Critically, NSW has confirmed it will continue issuing invitations for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa under Pathway 2. This is a temporary residence pathway leading to permanent residence via the Subclass 191 visa, subject to meeting regional living and working requirements.

For applicants whose occupation is on the NSW 491 list, this represents the most direct state-nominated alternative available right now. Points requirements and occupation eligibility differ from the 190 stream, so a careful assessment is essential before updating your EOI.

Alternative Pathways to Consider Before July 2026

PathwayKey FeatureConsiderationNSW Subclass 491State-nominated regional visa, still openRequires regional living and working for 3 years before 191 PROther State/Territory 190Victoria, Queensland, SA, WA, TAS, ACT may still have quotaState-specific occupation lists and residency intentions applySkills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)Employer-sponsored temporary residenceProvides a bridge to permanent residence via Subclass 186Subclass 189 (Independent)No state nomination requiredInvitation thresholds are competitive; requires strong points score

Practical Steps to Take Now

1. Check your points score rigorously. With 2026–27 competition expected to be fierce, even a marginal improvement in English language test scores (PTE, IELTS) can determine whether you receive an invitation in the first draw.
2. Review other state and territory programs. Some jurisdictions still have quota remaining and may be accepting EOIs in occupations relevant to your skills assessment. Residency intention requirements vary and must be taken seriously.
3. Assess employer-sponsored options. If you are currently working in Australia or have a prospective employer, the Skills in Demand visa (formerly Subclass 482) provides a lawful temporary status and a pathway to permanent residence via Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme.
4. Monitor your bridging visa status. If you are onshore and your substantive visa is expiring, lodging a further visa application before expiry will trigger a Bridging Visa A. Do not allow your lawful status to lapse while waiting for NSW 190 to reopen.
5. Prepare documentation now. Skills assessments, employment references, and police clearances all have processing times. Completing these before July positions you to act immediately when the new quota opens.

What to Expect When 2026–27 Quotas Open

Stakeholders widely anticipate strong competition when NSW reopens its 190 program in July 2026. The occupation list may be revised, and the points threshold for an invitation could rise relative to prior rounds. Applicants who have already obtained their skills assessment and maximised their points profile will be best positioned.

NSW has not indicated whether it will introduce any pre-registration or priority processing changes for the new program year. Monitoring the NSW Skills and Education Group (SEG) migration portal directly is the most reliable source of updated requirements.

Key Takeaways

• NSW confirmed closure of its Subclass 190 invitation rounds on 7 May 2026, with no further invitations until at least July 2026.
• NSW Subclass 491 under Pathway 2 remains open and is the most immediate state-nominated alternative for eligible applicants.
• Other states and territories may still have 190 quota available; eligibility depends on occupation lists and residency intentions.
• Employer-sponsored pathways, particularly the Skills in Demand visa, provide an alternative route to permanent residence.
• Use the time before July to maximise your points score, complete documentation, and review your broader migration strategy.

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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