South Australia Opens 190 and 491 Visa Programs for 2025–26

South Australia (SA) has officially opened applications for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visas and released its updated criteria on the Move to SA website.

For the 2025–26 program, including interim allocations, South Australia has received:

This year brings one of the biggest changes in recent years:

• SA has removed 71 onshore occupations from the skilled list
• Reducing the number of eligible onshore occupations from 464 last year to just 393 this year
• There are 278 offshore occupations available

Combined with significant allocation cuts, the 2025–26 program will be far more competitive than previous years.
With a 41% overall cut, South Australia now faces the largest reduction in nomination places across the country.

If you work in construction, health, teaching or have a high salary, you may have a better chance of being invited by SA.

South Australia Skilled Migration Streams

South Australia continues to operate four key nomination streams:

1. South Australian Graduates
2. Skilled Employment in South Australia
3. Outer Regional Skilled Employment
4. Offshore

The eligibility and competitiveness within each stream have shifted significantly, and it will be more difficult to receive a nomination.

Onshore Applicants: ROI Required

Onshore applicants must now submit a Registration of Interest (ROI).
SA will consider a mix of factors from your ROI when deciding whether to invite you for nomination.

Key assessment factors include:

• English language level
• Years of skilled experience
• Skills and qualification level
• Salary level
• Employer assessment (for those employed in SA)

Tip: For onshore applicants, points do not matter.

Minimum Work Requirement – SA Onshore Applicants

All onshore applicants must be working at least 30 hours per week for a set period based on their stream.
This means most international students will not be eligible, as student visa work rights limit them to 24 hours per week or 48 hours per fortnight.

Occupations – 491 Visa Only (Not Eligible for 190)

A significant number of occupations have shifted to the 491 visa only, reducing access to the 190 visa pathway.

Examples include:

• Accountant
• Dentist
• Motor Mechanic
• Marketing Specialist

Occupations No Longer Eligible for the SA Graduate Stream

• Chefs
• Cooks
• Cafe or Restaurant Managers
• Enrolled Nurses

Occupations Keeping 190 or 491 Options

Despite the major reductions, some high-priority occupations still retain 190 eligibility, including:

• Engineers
• Teachers
• Registered Nurses

These align with South Australia’s priority industry needs.

South Australia Priority Sectors for 2025–26

The state will prioritise applicants in:

• Building and Construction
• Defence
• Education
• Engineering
• Health
• Manufacturing

Applicants in these sectors may remain competitive for 190 nominations, depending on experience, English level and employment arrangements.

Offshore Applicants: No ROI Required

Offshore applicants do not need to submit an ROI.
Invitations will be issued directly from SkillSelect based on your EOI.

For offshore candidates, the primary assessment factors remain:

• Your occupation
• Points score
• Competitiveness within your occupation group

Not all occupations have offshore pathways. Some are onshore-only, and others are 491 only.

Tip: Points matter for offshore applicants.

Numbers and Competition

Last year (2024–25), South Australia had about 60,000 EOIs and ROIs for only 3,800 places. This means the chance of getting an invite was very low — about 6.33%.

This year (2025–26), if there are still around 60,000 applications but only 2,250 places, the chance of getting invited will be even lower — around 3.75%.

Tip: If you are not receiving an invitation, consider other visa options such as employer-sponsored visas (482 visa, 186 visa, 494 visa or DAMA) or a partner visa if you have an Australian partner.

What These Changes Mean for Applicants

• Expect fewer invitations overall
• Many occupations will now only access the 491 visa
• SA employment is becoming a key factor
• Offshore candidates will likely need high points to stay competitive
• Some occupations require SA employment even for Graduate pathways
• Employer sponsorship pathways (482 → 186) may be more reliable

If you intend to apply through South Australia, early planning and strategy are more important than ever.

You can book an appointment with one of our migration agents or immigration lawyers.

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Big Cuts to Australian Migration: 190 & 491 State Nomination reduced by 41%

Major changes to Australian skilled migration have now been officially confirmed — and the impact on the State-nominated Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas is significant.

Across Australia, state and territory nomination allocations have been reduced. While most states received a significant reduction, two states received an increase in the 190 and 491 visa.

At Work Visa Lawyers, we stay up to date with every policy announcement so you can understand how these changes affect your visa options. Below is a full breakdown of the new numbers, what they mean for skilled migrants, and the alternative pathways you may need to consider.

Australian Skilled Migration Cuts: Overall less Australian visas in 2025-26

The Federal Government has announced a 23% overall cut to state and territory nomination allocations for the 2025–26 program year.

But these cuts are not evenly distributed — some states have been hit much harder than others.

While Queensland and the Northern Territory received increases, every other state experienced reduction, with some receiving major cuts.

These changes affect thousands of skilled migrants who have already invested heavily in their journey, including skills assessments, English tests and Expressions of Interest (EOIs).

Australian businesses relying on skilled migrants to fill labour shortages will also fell the impact. 

Even though the Migration Program planning levels for this financial year are the same as last year, the state nomination allocations still dropped.

This strongly suggests that the Government has reduced state and territory allocations because of the large number of visa applications already in the system, ongoing processing backlogs, and the high volume of EOIs submitted over the past year.

In practical terms, this means the number of invitations issued in 2025–26 will be lower, even though the overall program size has not changed.

State-by-State Breakdown: From the Biggest Cut to the Biggest Increase

Below is a clear summary of how each state and territory has been affected.

1. South Australia — 41% Cut

South Australia is the hardest hit jurisdiction in Australia. A 41% reduction in the 190 and 491 visas means far fewer invitations, particularly for competitive occupations. Expect very high competition.

South Australia 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 3,000
• 491 visa: 800
• Total: 3,800

South Australia 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 1,350
• 491 visa: 900
• Total: 2,250

Difference: –1,550

2. Tasmania — 35% Cut

Despite a large cut to its 190 and 491 visas, Tasmania remains transparent with its invitation system, offering clearer expectations for applicants.

Tasmania 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 2,100
• 491 visa: 760
• Total: 2,860

Tasmania 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 1,200
• 491 visa: 650
• Total: 1,850

Difference: –1,010

3. Western Australia — 32% Cut

As expected, WA had a 32% cut. Premier Roger Cook tried to prevent this by asking the Federal Government not to proceed with the reductions, given the state’s strong need for skilled migrants — but the attempt was not successful.

Western Australia 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 3,000
• 491 visa: 2,000
• Total: 5,000

Western Australia 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 2,000
• 491 visa: 1,400
• Total: 3,400

Difference: –1,600

4. Victoria — 32% Cut

Victoria’s reductions in the 190 and 491 visas will now limit options for many general skilled migrants.

Victoria 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 3,000
• 491 visa: 2,000
• Total: 5,000

Victoria 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 2,700
• 491 visa: 700
• Total: 3,400

Difference: –1,600

5. New South Wales — 28% Cut

NSW still runs one of the largest skilled migration programs, but the state allocation cut means fewer opportunities and much tighter competition.

New South Wales 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 3,000
• 491 visa: 2,000
• Total: 5,000

New South Wales 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 2,100
• 491 visa: 1,500
• Total: 3,600

Difference: –1,400

6. Australian Capital Territory — 11% Cut

A smaller reduction, but still an overall decrease in nomination opportunities.

Australian Capital Territory 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 1,000
• 491 visa: 800
• Total: 1,800

Australian Capital Territory 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 800
• 491 visa: 800
• Total: 1,600

Difference: –200

States With 190 and 491 Increases in 2025–26

Northern Territory — 3% Increase

A small but notable rise in a year dominated by cuts.

Northern Territory 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 800
• 491 visa: 800
• Total: 1,600

Northern Territory 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 850
• 491 visa: 800
• Total: 1,650

Difference: +50

Queensland — 117% Increase

The biggest surprise — and the biggest winner.
Queensland’s allocation has more than doubled compared to last year.
While numbers remain competitive, this offers meaningful opportunities for eligible applicants.

Queensland 190 and 491 visas 2024–2025:
• 190 visa: 600
• 491 visa: 600
• Total: 1,200

Queensland 190 and 491 visas 2025–2026:
• 190 visa: 1,850
• 491 visa: 750
• Total: 2,600

Difference: +1,400

Check our table below with all the numbers and the comparison from 2024-25 and 2025-26.

We also published this in our Facebook, Instragram, and TikTok accounts. Follow us for on the spot short updates.

What This Means for Skilled Migrants

The 23% overall reduction in state allocations means:

• fewer invitations
• higher competition across all states
• many occupations may not receive invitations at all
• applicants need stronger strategies beyond just lodging an EOI

Most states continue prioritising critical industries, including:

• Health
• Teaching
• Construction and trades

Applicants in these areas may still have good chance.
However, for many other occupations, relying solely on the 190 or 491 visa this year may not be realistic.

What to Do If Your Occupation Is Affected

If you are considering skilled migration but your pathway has become more competitive or your occupation is no longer on the state lists, there are still visa options in Australia including:

• Employer-sponsored visas (482, 186, 494)
• Training visa (407)
• Partner visas if you have an eligible Australian partner
• Regional employer pathways, including DAMAs

At Work Visa Lawyers, we help individuals and businesses navigate these changes and choose the best possible pathway toward permanent residency.

How to Apply for an Australian Visa

If you want to understand which state gives you the best chance or whether you should lodge an EOI, discuss your visa options and apply for an Australian visa or permanent residency, our immigration lawyers and registered migration agents can assist you.

Book a consultation with one of our migration agents or immigration lawyers.
The meeting can be held in our office in Adelaide or through a video call.

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer

Permanent Residency Pathways for Construction Workers - Skilled Occupations That Support Australia’s Housing and Infrastructure Needs

Your skills are in high demand in Australia. As the nation expands its housing and infrastructure, the need for experienced professionals in construction, engineering, and related trades has never been greater. This growing demand creates clear, direct visa pathways to Australian Permanent Residency (PR) for qualified individuals like you.

1. Construction Trades

Carpenters, bricklayers, plumbers, tilers, electricians and many other construction workers are essential for residential and commercial building projects. Many of these occupations are included on the skilled occupation lists.

Visa pathways include

1. Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (employer-sponsored)
   • Main Requirements: Must be sponsored by an approved employer, have at least one  year of relevant work experience, have the occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) and meet English language criteria. You may be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency after two years holding a 482 visa.
2. Subclass 186 Temporary Residence Transition stream – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) - 482 visa to 186 PR
   • Main Requirements: The applicant needs to hold a 482 visa for at least 2 years, and the employer must nominate them for permanent residency. Generally, the applicant must also be under 45 years old.
3. Subclass 186 Direct Entry stream – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – PR through employer nomination
   • Main Requirements: Requires a nomination from an Australian employer, a positive skills assessment,at least three years of work experience, have the occupation on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), and competent English.
4. Subclass 189 - Skilled Independent, and 190/491 - State Nominated visas
   • Main Requirements: Based on a points system. Requires a positive skills assessment, must be invited to apply, and be under 45 years of age. The Subclass 190 and 491 also require a nomination from a state or territory government. Each state has different criteria and occupation lists.
5. Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA)
   • Main Requirements: Available in specific regions of Australia. Employers in these areas can sponsor overseas workers, often with concessions for skills, language, and age requirements (up to 55 years old).

Work Visa Lawyers Tip: Our team helps tradespeople prepare for Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) skills assessments and lodge strong skilled visa applications.

2. Engineers

Civil, structural, and electrical engineers are vital for infrastructure development and housing projects.

Visa pathways include

1. Subclass 482 → 186 (TRT) pathway
   • Main Requirements: Begin with an employer-sponsored 482 visa, then transition to the 186 PR visa after working for your employer for a specified period (usually two years).
2. Subclass 186 - Direct Entry pathway
   • Main Requirements: Requires a nomination from an Australian employer, a positive skills assessment, at least three years of relevant work experience, and competent English.
3. Subclass 189/190 - Skilled visas via points or state nomination
   • Main Requirements: A points-based system where candidates need a positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia, must meet a points threshold, and be invited to apply. The 190 visa requires state nomination.
4. Subclass 491 - Regional provisional visas leading to 191 PR
   • Main Requirements: Requires nomination by a state/territory or an eligible family member to live and work in a designated regional area. This visa provides a pathway to the permanent 191 visa.

Work Visa Lawyers Tip: We assist engineers with Engineers Australia skills assessments and points-tested visas.

3. Surveyors & Architects

Surveyors and architects support the planning and design side of housing and urban development. These roles are also recognised on the skilled lists.

Visa pathways include

1. Subclass 482 - Employer sponsorship
   • Main Requirements: Requires sponsorship from an approved Australian employer, relevant qualifications, and English language proficiency.
2. Subclass 186 - ENS PR pathway
   • Main Requirements: Can be accessed via the Direct Entry or Temporary Residence Transition stream. Requires a positive skills assessment and relevant work experience.
3. Subclass 189/190 - Skilled PR visas
   • Main Requirements: A points-tested pathway requiring a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing body, an invitation to apply, and meeting the points threshold.
4. Subclass 491 - Regional provisional visa
   • Main Requirements: Requires nomination from a state or territory to live and work in a regional area, providing a pathway to permanent residency.

Work Visa Lawyers Tip: We provide advice for surveyors and architects navigating migration and state nomination requirements. Check our Employer-Sponsored Visa Services.

4. High-Demand Construction Occupations & Recent Invitation Rounds

Recent Subclass 189 invitation rounds have highlighted the strong demand for construction trades. In the last three 189 visa  rounds, many of these occupations received invitations with a minimum of just 65 points. This demonstrates a clear opportunity for skilled tradespeople seeking permanent residency in Australia.

Examples of occupations invited include:

• Carpenters and Joiners (with 65 points)
• Bricklayers (with 65 points)
• Plumbers (with 65 points)
• Electricians (with 70 points)

Work Visa Lawyers Tip: We stay on top of migration trends and can advise you on your points score and chances of receiving an invitation.

Building Australia’s Future

From trades and engineers to surveyors and project managers, skilled professionals are central to Australia’s housing and infrastructure development. If you’re qualified in these areas, there are clear visa pathways available.

How Work Visa Lawyers Can Help

At Work Visa Lawyers, our Adelaide-based team—founded by Immigration Lawyer Chris Johnston in 2011—specialises in Australian visa pathways for skilled workers.

Since 2011, we’ve helped thousands of skilled workers, families, and businesses with their migration matters. Whether you’re a carpenter, engineer, or architect, we can help you plan your pathway to Australia.

Book a consultation to explore your visa options.

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What Are Interim Allocations for State 190 or 491 Visas?

The Department of Home Affairs sometimes provides states and territories with a small, temporary batch of nomination places. These are called interim allocations.

They allow states to continue processing a limited number of nominations for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visas while waiting for the federal government to release the full allocation for the year.

In simple terms, interim allocations act as a “bridge” so that migration programs don’t completely pause between July and when the final numbers are handed down.

Why Interim Allocations Are Important

For applicants, interim allocations mean that invitations may still be issued early in the program year, but they will usually be very limited. States often use these places to:

• Prioritise candidates who submitted a Registration of Interest (ROI) in the previous program year
• Focus on occupations that are in critical demand
• Assist applicants with urgent visa situations, such as those whose visas are close to expiring

Interim Allocations in the Past

This is not the first time interim allocations have been used. For example, in the 2020–21 program year, during the COVID-19 pandemic, interim allocations were provided before the full annual quotas were confirmed.

Interim Allocations in 2025-26 

In the 2025–26 program year, the states and territories received interim allocations in early September while still waiting for the full allocation number be released. This allowed them to issue a small number of invitations ahead of the full allocations being announced later in the year.

In practice, the gap between interim allocations being released and the full allocation being confirmed is usually only a matter of weeks or a couple of months.

For ACT the 2025-26 interim allocation is 165 nomination places:

• ACT permanent 190 nomination: 85 places
• ACT provisional 491 nomination: 80 places

For Tasmania, this allocation is a total of 165 places:

• 85 for subclass 190 visa
• 80 for subclass 491 visa

South Australia and Western Australia didn’t provide the number of interim allocation provided. 

What Applicants Should Do

If you are planning to apply for a 190 or 491 visa, it’s important to be prepared:

• Keep your EOI/ROI up to date with accurate details, English test results and skills assessments
• Gather your supporting documents so you are ready if invited
• Stay informed by checking the announcements on state and territory migration websites

Interim allocations are a temporary but important part of Australia’s skilled migration program. While numbers are small, they allow states to continue nominating candidates before the full annual quotas are set. For applicants, being prepared early can make the difference between securing an invitation or missing out.

You can contact us if you need any assistance with your visa application or pathways for your permanent residency in Australia.

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer

189 Visa Invitation Round August 2025

After nine months, a new Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) invitation round was held on 21 August 2025. The previous round took place in November 2024.

This round brought positive news for many applicants, with invitations issued across the construction, health, and teaching sectors. Occupations invited included carpenters, painters, engineers, nurses, doctors, and teachers.

At a time when the Australian Government has not yet announced the 2025–26 allocations for the 189, 190, and 491 visas, the August 2025 invitation round came as a welcome news.

We hope the new allocations will be released soon and that state nominations will reopen shortly.

Invitation Round Overview

The Department of Home Affairs released the full list of invited occupations and points.

Key Outcomes:

• 6,887 invitations 
• Invitations were issued across more than 130 occupations
• Construction trades such as carpenters, electricians, and bricklayers were invited at only 65 points
• Health roles were also strong — many doctors and nurses were invited around 80 points
• Education professionals included university lecturers at 85 points and childcare managers at 90 points
• Unfortunately, accountants and chefs did not receive invitations in this round

The Department has indicated that invitation rounds will be held quarterly, with the next expected before December 2025.

Prior Reference: November 2024 Round

The 7 November 2024 invitation round numbers:

• Invitations issued: 15,000
• Points threshold: Ranged from 65 for many trades and general roles, up to 95 for high-demand professions

You can read our blog on the November 2024 189 invitation round for more information.

What You Can Do Now

If you are waiting for an invitation, it’s important to keep your Expression of Interest (EOI) and documents up to date. Make sure that your English test results, skills assessments, and all declarations are current, as outdated information could affect your eligibility.

You should also look for opportunities to maximise your points. This may include claiming partner skills, completing a professional year, or retaking an English test to achieve a higher score. Even a small increase in points can improve your position in SkillSelect.

Finally, consider alternative visa pathways if the subclass 189 visa remains highly competitive and state nomination programs for the 190 and 491 visas are still closed. Employer-sponsored visas such as the 482 visa, 186 visa or 494 visa may offer a more practical route to securing permanent residency in Australia.

Contact us if you need assistance with applying for an Australian visa.

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