2025–26 Australia Skilled Visa Updates: Full State Nomination Allocations Announced
Australia’s 2025–26 Skilled Migration allocations are out
Here’s what it means for you as an international student
If you’re studying in Australia and thinking about your future here, here’s an important skilled migration update.
The Australian government has officially released the number of places available for 2025–26 state and territory-nominated skilled migration programs, and the numbers are slightly tighter this time.
There are 20,350 total places across the two main state-nominated pathways that many students and graduates aim for:
Visa subclass | Places |
|---|---|
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) visa | 12,850 places |
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visa | 7,500 places |
Many states received fewer places compared to last year.
This means the competition may be stronger, especially if you’re on a Student visa or Temporary Graduate visa (485) and planning to transition into a skilled visa.
But the most important thing to remember is this: a lower quota doesn’t mean “no chance”. It simply means planning early, meeting requirements ahead of time, and being strategic about where you apply matters even more this year.
If you’re graduating soon or are already on a 485
Many onshore students feel uncertain about their next steps, especially when allocations get tighter. If your student visa or 485 is ending soon, getting personalised advice early can help you choose realistic, competitive pathways before quotas fill.
IDP migration experts can help you understand what’s still open for your occupation and your current visa status.
Need clarity on your next step after graduation?
We can help assess whether you are better positioned for a 190, 491, further study, or a different strategy.
2025–26 State Nominated Skilled Migration Allocation: Summary
State | 190 visa | 491 visa | Total allocation |
|---|---|---|---|
NSW | 2,100 | 1,500 | 3,600 |
TAS | 1,200 | 650 | 1,850 |
ACT | 850 | 800 | 1,650 |
NT | 800 | 800 | 1,600 |
WA | 2,000 | 1,400 | 3,400 |
VIC | 2,700 | 700 | 3,400 |
SA | 1,350 | 900 | 2,250 |
QLD | 1,850 | 750 | 2,600 |
A quick look at the 190 and 491 visas
Australia’s states and territories use these visa pathways to fill skill shortages in key industries.
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) visa
The Subclass 190 is a permanent visa, which means you can live and work anywhere in Australia once you are nominated by a state or territory.
To be invited, you generally need to:
Have an occupation on the skilled occupation list
Get a valid skills assessment
Meet the points test
Receive a state or territory nomination
For many students, this is the long-term goal, but with reduced places in some states, the competition may be higher.
Thinking about the 190, but unsure about your points or eligibility?
If you’re on a 485 or about to finish your studies, we can help you check if you already meet the criteria.
We can also help you understand what steps (English test, work experience, further studies, or skills assessment) can boost your chances for a 190 visa.
Visa success stories
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visa
The Subclass 491 is a temporary visa for up to five years. It requires you to live and work in a regional area, but it can eventually lead to a permanent visa.
To qualify, you need to meet the points requirement and be nominated by:
A regional state or territory, or
An eligible family sponsor
If you’re open to moving to a regional area, or already studying in one, the 491 may be a more competitive pathway this year due to the lower 190 quotas.
Unsure whether moving to a regional area is worth it?
Many onshore students feel unsure about changing states or regions. IDP can help compare your options so you can make a decision that feels realistic and aligned with your goals.
Know the state-specific program requirements and Skilled Occupation Lists
Below are some of our specific guides. If you want to know the program requirements and eligible occupations per state and territory:
What you should focus on this year
If you’re hoping to stay in Australia after your studies, try to keep ahead of these key areas:
Check your state or territory’s nomination requirements
See if your occupation is still on the priority list
Make sure you meet points, English requirements, and work experience early
Keep track of skills assessment timelines
Consider whether regional pathways might be more realistic this year
Planning early can make a big difference, especially when allocations are tighter.
Want help preparing a strong EOI?
We have a complete guide on how to structure a competitive Expression of Interest, so you can focus on doing the steps that boost your chances.
This is also a great time to retake IELTS if you need a higher English score for points.
A higher band score can significantly improve your chances for state nomination.
Know more about how IELTS can boost your points for PR.
Now you can feel more confident about your PR pathway
Preparing to apply for a permanent visa can feel overwhelming.
Many students hit an “unsure” stage, where they start questioning whether they took the right steps after waiting for nomination for a very long time.
This is where expert guidance matters.
Our migration experts are up-to-date with the latest policy changes and trends in skilled migration in Australia.
We can give you honest and credible guidance on the pathway that fits your skills, experience, and goals.
If you want personalised guidance based on your course, occupation, state, or visa status, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
Meet our MARA-registered agents
Melbourne
Liping Helen Shan (MARN 0961842)
Fluent in English and Mandarin
Helen has been a registered Migration Agent since 2009. With a background in both migration and education consulting, she has helped countless clients with Student, Skilled, Visitor, Family Sponsored, and State Nomination visas.
Book an appointment with Helen
Perth
Jihang Michael Li (MARN 1802068)
Fluent in English and Mandarin
Michael has been a registered Migration Agent since 2018. Originally trained as a Nuclear Engineer, he now specialises in helping clients with a wide range of visas. He combines his technical skills with a strong legal foundation as he completes his Juris Doctor at UWA.