New South Wales has opened its Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) nomination program for 2026–27, with the first invitation round expected in the week commencing 19 October 2026. The state has also released an updated NSW Skills List, while applications for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) remain closed to new applicants.

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NSW Subclass 190 Nomination Program Opens

The NSW Government has officially opened its nomination program for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) for the 2026–27 program year. Eligible skilled professionals seeking Australian permanent residency through state nomination can review the updated eligibility criteria before submitting or updating their Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect.

Applicants should ensure their EOI details are accurate and supported by valid documentation, as the information provided may be considered during the invitation process.

First NSW Subclass 190 Invitation Round Expected in October

NSW is expected to hold its first invitation round for the subclass 190 visa during the week commencing 19 October 2026. Candidates interested in receiving a nomination invitation should keep their SkillSelect profiles current and ensure they can provide evidence for all claims made in their EOIs.

Meeting the eligibility requirements does not necessarily guarantee an invitation, as selection depends on the applicable nomination criteria and invitation process.

Updated NSW Skills List for 2026–27

New South Wales has published its revised Skills List for the 2026–27 skilled migration program. The list identifies occupations linked to priority skill areas under the NSW Government’s State Migration Plan 2024–28, focusing on sectors experiencing significant demand.

Eligible occupations are identified at the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) unit group level. Occupations within an eligible unit group may be considered for a subclass 190 nomination invitation, subject to the relevant requirements. Occupations not included on the published NSW Skills List will not be considered for an NSW nomination invitation under this process.

Skilled workers should check the updated list carefully to determine whether their occupation falls within an eligible group before proceeding with their application plans.

Subclass 491 Visa Pathways Remain Closed

NSW has confirmed that applications for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) remain closed to new applicants across all available nomination pathways. Further information is expected when the state announces additional updates regarding the program.

Applicants interested in regional migration to New South Wales should monitor official announcements for changes to application availability and eligibility requirements.

NSW Health Deployment Program Offers Regional Opportunities

Alongside its skilled migration update, NSW has highlighted its Health Deployment Program, which provides nurses, midwives and allied health professionals with opportunities to work across the state for periods ranging from two to 13 weeks.

The program offers paid travel, accommodation and additional financial support, allowing healthcare professionals to gain practical experience while supporting healthcare services in regional and rural communities.

What Should Skilled Migration Applicants Do Next?

Skilled professionals planning to pursue Australian permanent residency through New South Wales should review the latest Skills List and nomination requirements, check their occupation eligibility and maintain an accurate SkillSelect EOI.

With the first subclass 190 invitation round expected in October 2026, eligible candidates should prepare the supporting evidence for their claims and follow official NSW migration updates. Those considering the subclass 491 pathway should wait for further announcements, as new applications remain closed.

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