NSW Skilled Migration Update 2025-26: New 190 & 491 Pathways, Allocations and Regional Graduate Eligibility

NSW has announced key updates for the Skilled Nominated (190) and Skilled Work Regional (491) visas.

Visa Allocations:

• 2,100 places for Skilled Nominated (190)

• 1,500 places for Skilled Work Regional (491)

Find state wise allocation breakdown here: https://www.newstedglobal.com/post/australia-2025-26-skilled-visa-state-nomination-allocation-analysis

NSW Subclass 190 2025-26 Invitation round update

• Three invitation rounds completed

• Monthly rounds to resume from January 2026

• Only occupations on the NSW Skills List will be invited

  
  

NSW Subclass 491 Visa Update

Pathway 1 (Work in Regional NSW) and Pathway 3 (Regional NSW Graduate) opens from 19 January 2026.

Expedited Assessment allowed when:

• Applicant/partner visa expiring

• English test, skills assessment, or passport expiring

• Applicant losing points for age

Pathway 1: Work in Regional NSW

• All 491-eligible occupations accepted

• Must meet income threshold

• 6+ months employment in regional NSW

Pathway 3: Regional NSW Graduate

To qualify, applicants must:

• Complete a Bachelor’s degree or higher at a Regional NSW education provider

• Have an occupation on the NSW Regional Skills List

Recognised Regional NSW Universities (Eligible for Pathway 3)

Studying at a regional NSW institution provides:

• Extra migration points (Study in Regional Australia - 5 points)

• Access to the 491 Regional Graduate Pathway• Strong industry links with regional employers

• Opportunities to build regional work experience (helpful for future PR pathways)

Key Regional NSW Universities Include:

• University of New England (UNE) - Armidale

• Charles Sturt University (CSU) - Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, Orange, Wagga Wagga, Port Macquarie

• Southern Cross University (SCU) - Lismore, Coffs Harbour

• University of Newcastle (UON) - Newcastle, Central Coast

• University of Wollongong (UOW) - Wollongong, Shoalhaven, Batemans Bay, Bega

These campuses are fully recognised as designated regional areas for visa purposes.

Pathway 2: Invitation by NSW

Will only open if needed. Earliest possible round: April 2026.

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.