ACT Migration Program 2025-26: Official Update on Nomination Guidelines and Invitation Rounds

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Migration program has released an official update regarding the 2025-26 program year. These updates are relevant for skilled migrants and migration agents preparing for Canberra Matrix submissions.

2025-26 Nomination Allocation

The ACT has received an interim allocation of 165 nomination places for 2025-26, pending confirmation of the final allocation from the Department of Home Affairs. This allocation will be distributed across the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa streams.

Official Updates for 2025-26

1. Nomination Guidelines Review: ACT Migration is reviewing its nomination guidelines to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose and aligned with the economic needs of the ACT. Key focus areas include:

   • Income thresholds for applicants

   • Nomination pathways, including Small Business Owner, 482, Doctorate Streamlined, and the ACT Critical Skills List

   • Eligibility criteria and scoring requirements

   Any changes are expected to be implemented in early 2026, with applicants and agents informed prior to the changes taking effect.

2. ACT Critical Skills List Updates: Updates to the Critical Skills List may occur before the first invitation round. These updates will apply from the date of publication, depending on circumstances at the time. Applicants should monitor the official ACT Migration website for confirmed details.

3. Invitation Round Schedule: The first invitation round for the 2025-26 program year will be conducted on or before Monday, 15 September 2025. Subsequent invitation rounds will be scheduled once the final allocation is announced.

   
   

The ACT Migration program for 2025-26 emphasises skilled migrants who align with the territory’s economic priorities. Staying up to date with official nomination guidelines, critical skills updates, and invitation round schedules is essential for applicants preparing for Canberra Matrix submissions.

• Selection through the Canberra Matrix is competitive, with invitations based on occupation demand and ranking scores.

• Having an active submission or a previous ACT nomination does not guarantee an invitation.

At Newsted, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.