New South Wales will continue issuing invitations for the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa – Pathway 2 after exhausting its nomination allocation for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa.
The state confirmed it has invited enough Expressions of Interest (EOIs) to fill its subclass 190 nomination places for the current 2025–26 program year. NSW will not issue further invitations for the visa until the Australian Government provides a new allocation for the 2026-27 program year.
The announcement effectively pauses new subclass 190 invitation rounds for the remainder of the program year, limiting nomination opportunities for offshore and onshore skilled migrants seeking permanent residency through NSW.
While subclass 190 invitations have stopped, NSW said it will continue inviting EOIs for the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa – Pathway 2 until its regional nomination allocation is fully used. An invitation round for the subclass 491 – Pathway 2 was conducted in the week starting 27 April 2026, signalling that regional migration remains an active priority for the state government.
The subclass 491 visa allows skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years and can provide a pathway to permanent residency if visa holders meet eligibility requirements.
The update comes as states and territories continue managing limited nomination allocations amid strong demand for skilled migration pathways across Australia.
Pathway 2 Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for consideration, applicants must hold an occupation that falls within an ANZSCO unit group listed on the NSW Regional Skills List and is eligible for the subclass 491 visa.
Applicants must also satisfy at least one residency requirement at the time of invitation. This includes:
- Working in NSW in their nominated occupation
- Residing in NSW continuously for at least three months
- Residing offshore continuously for at least three months
The criteria form part of NSW’s ongoing effort to target skilled workers who can support regional workforce demands across the state.
Guidance for Skilled Visa Applicants
With subclass 190 invitations now closed in NSW for the current program year, skilled migrants may need to reassess their migration strategies, including regional pathways and alternative nomination options.
SALIA Lawyers & Associates assists skilled workers and employers with state nomination strategies, visa eligibility assessments and EOI preparation across Australia’s skilled migration program. We also advise applicants on regional migration pathways, helping clients understand nomination requirements, occupation criteria and long-term permanent residency options.
For advice on your skilled migration options, contact us to book a consultation with the team.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
