Queensland State Nomination Program: ROI Submission Window will open from 19th September 2025

Migration Queensland has released updated guidance on the operation of its state nomination program for the 2025-26 program year. Migration Queensland introduced significant adjustments to nomination pathways, residency requirements, and sectoral eligibility.  These adjustments affect settlement timeframes, work requirements, and nomination categories, with special provisions for those in building, construction, and other priority industries.

Key Changes on Queensland State Nomination Program

ROI Submission Window

From 19 September 2025, Queensland will begin accepting new Registrations of Interest (ROIs) for the Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visas, officially opening the program year.

Small Business Owner Pathway Closing

The Small Business Owner (SBO) pathway will close at the end of September. Applicants who are already in the process of settling a business will still be considered, as long as their settlement date is before 30 September 2025. After that, no new applicants will be admitted through this route.

Flexibility Work Experience

Queensland has eased its work experience rules for onshore applicants:

• Only 20 hours per week of employment is required (reduced from 38 hours).

• Casual roles now count toward eligibility.

• Work can be split between two employers.

• No ongoing employment commitment is necessary.

• However, student visa holders remain ineligible under this option.

Longer Residency Periods

Applicants will now need to meet extended residency requirements before applying for nomination:

• Subclass 190 visa: 9 months residence in Queensland (up from 6 months).

• Subclass 491 visa: 6 months residence in Queensland (up from 3 months).

• Queensland Building and Construction Stream: 3 months residence in Queensland

Queensland Building & Construction Workforce

The Queensland Government has introduced a dedicated workforce pathway under its onshore nomination program, specifically targeting occupations within the building and construction sector. This pathway responds to industry demand and provides an avenue for skilled professionals currently contributing to the state’s construction workforce.

Queensland’s 2025-26 program year reflects both continuity and reform. Extended settlement requirements, the closure of certain options, and the introduction of targeted pathways, particularly in construction, highlight the state’s focus on genuine settlement and alignment with workforce priorities.

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