Exciting Opportunities for Skilled Migrants in Australia: Queensland and Victoria Open State Nomination Programs for 2025-26

Angie Lam
Oct 15, 2025
3 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

Exciting news for skilled migrants looking to settle in Australia — Queensland and Victoria have officially opened their state nomination programs for the 2025-26 skilled visa year. These programs provide an excellent opportunity for eligible professionals to secure Australian visas through state sponsorship, leading to permanent residency or provisional status.

Queensland Skilled Visa Nomination Program Now Accepting Applications

Queensland’s skilled program welcomes Expressions of Interest (EOIs) and Registrations of Interest (ROIs) for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visa. The program targets professions in demand across the state, including healthcare, engineering, construction, and technology sectors.

Key Highlights of Queensland's Program

The subclass 190 visa offers a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers on Queensland’s occupation list.
The subclass 491 visa provides a provisional visa for those willing to live and work in designated regional areas of Queensland, with a route to permanent residency.
Queensland’s process is flexible, allowing both onshore and offshore applicants to apply, including international graduates and small business owners.
Applicants can now choose multiple states in SkillSelect without restricting themselves just to Queensland, expanding their chances.

Victoria’s Skilled Migration Program Opens for 2025-26

Victoria has also launched its skilled migration nomination program for the new year. This program supports the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visas, inviting prospective migrants who can contribute to Victoria’s economy and fill skill shortages.

Important Details About Victoria's Program

Interim allocations are currently active with limited places available: 200 nominations for subclass 190 and 180 for subclass 491.
Registration of Interest submissions from last year remain valid; only updates are needed if personal circumstances change.
Victoria focuses on attracting skilled professionals to boost innovation, workforce growth, and regional development.
Early applications are encouraged due to limited nomination spots being available initially.

What You Need to Know When Applying

When applying for these skilled visa programs, it's essential to follow specific guidelines to enhance your chances of success. Here are some key considerations:

Eligibility Requirements: Carefully check eligibility requirements for your nominated occupation on both state and federal lists. Ensure that your skills and qualifications align with the criteria set by the states.
Accurate Submissions: Prepare and submit your SkillSelect EOIs and state ROIs accurately with up-to-date information. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or rejections.
Priority Occupations: Keep an eye on priority occupations and sectors highlighted by Queensland and Victoria to maximize your chances. Focusing on in-demand fields can significantly improve your application’s success rate.
Act Fast: Both states are experiencing strong demand for nomination and can close intake when capacity is reached. Timeliness is crucial in this competitive environment.

Additional Resources for Skilled Migrants

Understanding the Visa Process

Navigating the visa application process can be complex. It’s advisable to seek guidance from migration experts or consult official government resources for the latest updates and requirements.

Networking and Community Support

Engaging with local communities and professional networks can provide valuable insights and support. Connecting with others who have successfully migrated can offer practical advice and encouragement.

Preparing for Life in Australia

Consider researching the lifestyle, culture, and job market in Queensland and Victoria. Understanding what to expect can help you transition smoothly into your new life.

Final Thoughts

The opening of nomination programs in Queensland and Victoria is great news for skilled migrants aiming to call Australia home. These pathways offer a streamlined and viable route to permanent residency, providing a golden opportunity for eligible applicants across key industries.