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Planning to Apply for Victoria's 190 or 491 Visa?
If you're considering Victorian state nomination, understanding the 2026–27 selection rules could help you prepare a stronger application.
Victoria has introduced new application fees and published details of its Victorian Points Test (VPT). These changes affect how applicants are ranked for subclass 190 and 491 nomination invitations.
The official program opening date has not yet been confirmed.
New Application Fees
Applicants will now pay fees at two stages:
- Registration of Interest (ROI): $60 ($66 including GST)
- 190 or 491 nomination application: $180 ($198 including GST)
GST applies to applicants in Australia at the time of payment.
The ROI fee is charged once per program year. The nomination application fee is payable only if you are invited to apply.
Important: Previous ROIs will not carry over. You must submit a new ROI for 2026–27 when the program opens.
How Does the 950-Point System Work?
Victoria uses a separate 950-point Victorian Points Test to rank applicants for nomination invitations.
Your ranking considers factors including:
- Age: Up to 300 points
- English proficiency: Up to 200 points
- Skilled work experience: Up to 100 points
- Qualifications: Up to 100 points
- Occupation skill level: Up to 50 points
- Eligible partner skills: Up to 50 points
- Eligible Victorian earnings: Up to 150 points
There is no fixed VPT pass mark. Your score is assessed against other eligible applicants.
Importantly, this system is separate from the federal visa points test.
Having 65 federal points does not guarantee a nomination invitation.
Which Occupations Have Priority?
Victoria considers applicants through two selection pathways: Most Competitive and Priority Industry.
The priority industries include:
- Healthcare and social assistance
- Education, including early childhood teaching
- Construction, including eligible trades and professional occupations
Priority applies to specific eligible occupations, not everyone working in these industries.
If your occupation is outside these groups, you may still be considered through the Most Competitive pathway.
What Should You Do Now?
Before submitting your new ROI, make sure you:
- Review your EOI and confirm your claimed points are accurate.
- Check your VPT ranking factors, particularly English, qualifications and work experience.
- Confirm your occupation's eligibility and whether it falls within a priority group.
- Prepare supporting documents to substantiate your claims.
Is Your Victoria 190 or 491 Application Competitive?
Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements is only the first step. Your ranking and supporting evidence can make a significant difference.
At Riverwood Migration, our Australian immigration lawyers can assess your eligibility, review your EOI and identify potential risks before you submit your ROI.
Information current as at 19 October 2026. Program dates, eligibility requirements and selection priorities may change. Refer to the official Live in Melbourne website for updates.
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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