What the 2025–26 Skilled Migration Allocations Mean for Your Visa

Every year, the Australian Government sets how many skilled migrants each state and territory can nominate. These numbers form part of the permanent Migration Program and directly influence how quickly invitations are issued for visas like the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491. 

The 2025–26 allocations are now confirmed, and they give skilled migrants an early look at which states may be more active this program year. Understanding these numbers helps you plan your next steps with realistic expectations. 

What do the 2025–26 skilled migration allocations mean for applicants? 

The 2025–26 allocations set limits on how many new skilled applicants each state or territory can nominate for the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas. These numbers influence how many invitations may be issued, how competitive each state becomes, and when nomination rounds are likely to occur. 

What the 2025–26 Skilled Migration Allocations Mean for You 

Understanding the Allocations 

On 4 November 2025, the Australian Government released the nomination allocations for the 2025–26 program year. A total of 20,350 nomination places were distributed across all states and territories. 

The allocations are divided into two visa types: 

• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) 

• Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) 

These numbers reflect how many new primary applicants each state can nominate, not how many visas will ultimately be granted by the Department. 

2025–26 Allocation Breakdown 

Subclass 190 

• ACT: 800 

• NSW: 2,100 

• NT: 850 

• QLD: 1,850 

• SA: 1,350 

• TAS: 1,200 

• VIC: 2,700 

• WA: 2,000 Total: 12,850 places 

Subclass 491 

• ACT: 800 

• NSW: 1,500 

• NT: 800 

• QLD: 750 

• SA: 900 

• TAS: 650 

• VIC: 700 

• WA: 1,400 Total: 7,500 places 

Together, these form the full 20,350 nomination allocations for the program year. 

What These Numbers Mean for Skilled Migrants 

1. Some states will be more competitive than others 

States with higher allocations, such as Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia, may run more frequent nomination rounds. However, they also attract more applicants, which can increase competition. 

States with smaller quotas may be more selective but may also prioritise applicants already living and working in their region. 

2. Subclass 190 places remain limited 

The Subclass 190 allocations show that permanent residence through state nomination is still competitive nationwide. Applicants should expect strong criteria, clear skills demand and possible preference for onshore candidates. 

3. Regional pathways continue to be supported 

The Subclass 491 allocations show ongoing support for regional migration. Regions rely on skilled migrants to help fill workforce shortages, so relocating to a regional area can increase your chances of nomination if your occupation is in demand. 

4. Every state uses its own criteria 

Even with clear allocations, states decide who they nominate. Each jurisdiction assesses applicants based on its workforce needs, demographic pressures and local priorities. 

Some states focus on occupations with shortages, others prioritise applicants already working locally, and some favour graduates of their own education system. 

5. Allocations do not guarantee faster processing 

A nomination is permission to apply for a visa. The Department of Home Affairs will still assess visa applications based on processing priorities and the broader Migration Program planning levels. 

Applicants should prepare for standard processing times after nomination. 

How to Position Yourself Well in 2025–26 

Because competition remains strong, skilled migrants benefit from: 

• preparing documents early 

• choosing states that match their occupation and profile 

• monitoring each state’s nomination updates 

• maintaining accurate and updated EOI details 

• understanding regional opportunities and obligations 

A clear strategy can significantly improve your chances of receiving a nomination invitation. 

How LMSD Supports Skilled Migrants  At Legacy Migration & Study Direction, we help applicants understand which state or territory is most aligned with their occupation, experience and long term goals. We guide you through: 

• eligibility assessments 

• state specific criteria 

• EOI preparation and improvement 

• timing and strategy for nomination 

• understanding Subclass 190 and 491 visa obligations 

With clear advice, skilled migrants can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence. 

The 2025–26 skilled migration allocations give applicants a clearer picture of opportunity across Australia. While the numbers help guide expectations, your success still depends on meeting state criteria, preparing early and choosing the right pathway.

The information, updates, news, and advice provided are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalised guidance. For accurate advice regarding your specific migration case, we invite you to reach out to us directly by sending a message through this link: https://www.legacymigration.com.au/take-your-first-step-to-living-working-or-studying-in-australia

Migration Agents Registration Number: 1797357

QEAC Number: S041