Great news for skilled professionals dreaming of living and working in Australia! The Victorian Government has officially opened its 2025–26 Skilled Migration Visa Nomination Program, providing exciting opportunities for qualified individuals to contribute to Victoria’s growing economy and vibrant communities.
About the Programs
The Skilled Migration Visa Nomination Program allows the state of Victoria to nominate highly skilled migrants for two visa categories under the Australian Government’s Migration Program:
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) – a permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or territory government.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) – a temporary visa for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Victoria.
Victoria selects candidates who possess in-demand skills and experience that align with the state’s workforce needs, ensuring that businesses and industries can continue to grow and innovate.
Program Allocation for 2025–26
The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs has provided Victoria with a small interim allocation for the 2025–26 program year:
- 200 places for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- 180 places for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The full allocation for the 2025–26 program is expected to be confirmed by the Department of Home Affairs in the coming weeks.
This interim allocation highlights the competitiveness of Victoria’s program this year — meaning candidates with strong profiles and relevant work experience in priority sectors will have the best chance of selection.
Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible for Victoria’s 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have an occupation listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.
- Hold a suitable skills assessment for that occupation.
- Be invited by the Victorian Government to apply for nomination.
- Satisfy the points test set by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Submit a SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI).
- Complete a Registration of Interest (ROI) for Victorian nomination.
In addition, applicants should demonstrate professional experience that aligns with one of Victoria’s priority sectors, which include:
- Health & Social Services
- Education & Early Childhood
- Medical Technologies & Pharmaceuticals
- Digital Technology & ICT
- Construction & Transport Technologies
- New Energy & Emissions Reduction
- Food, Fibre & Agribusiness
- Creative Industries
These industries represent the foundation of Victoria’s economic growth and are in high demand for skilled professionals.
Registration of Interest (ROI) Guidelines
If you already have an active Registration of Interest (ROI), there’s good news — it remains valid for consideration in the 2025–26 program.
You only need to submit a new ROI if your personal or professional circumstances have changed.
For new applicants, both visa pathways — Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 — are open. To be considered, you must:
- Lodge a SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI), and
- Submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) for nomination by the Victorian Government.
Submitting both ensures your profile is visible and eligible for Victorian nomination.
What’s New in 2025–26?
The 2025–26 program continues to focus on attracting skilled talent that contributes to innovation and economic growth in Victoria. Some updates include:
- A refined nomination process to streamline applications.
- Continued emphasis on regional development through the 491 Visa stream.
- Broader recognition of work experience and qualifications in Victoria’s key industries.
Why Choose Victoria?
Victoria remains one of Australia’s most dynamic and diverse states—offering strong job opportunities, world-class education, and a high quality of life. With Melbourne consistently ranked among the most liveable cities in the world, it’s an ideal destination for professionals and families looking to build a future in Australia.
Why Choose Maven Consulting Group?
At Maven, we guide aspiring migrants through every step of the Skilled Migration process – from eligibility assessment to EOI submission and nomination preparation. Our expert migration consultants help ensure your application stands out, increasing your chances of a successful nomination.
Whether you’re an ICT professional, engineer, healthcare worker, or educator, we’re here to help you turn your Australian dream into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will Victoria’s 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program officially open?The program has started to accept new applications, with invitations expected to roll out progressively from October 2025 onward. Timelines may vary, so it’s best to prepare your ROI early.
2. Can offshore applicants apply?Yes. Both onshore and offshore skilled professionals can apply if they meet the eligibility criteria and have experience in Victoria’s priority sectors.
3. What’s the difference between Subclass 190 and Subclass 491?- Subclass 190 grants permanent residency immediately.
- Subclass 491 provides a five-year provisional visa, allowing you to live and work in regional Victoria. After meeting certain conditions, you can apply for permanent residency.
Not necessarily. While having a job offer or being employed in Victoria can increase your chances, it’s not mandatory for all occupations.
5. How does Victoria select candidates?The Victorian Government ranks applicants based on points, work experience, education, English proficiency, and relevance to target sectors. Top-ranked candidates receive invitations through selection rounds.
6. Can I submit multiple ROIs?No. You can submit only one ROI at a time for Victoria’s Skilled Migration Program.
7. What happens after I receive an invitation?Once invited, you must submit your state nomination application within the specified timeframe (usually 14–28 days). After approval, you can apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs.
8. What if my ROI is not selected?Your ROI remains valid until the end of the program year (30 June 2026). You can update your EOI or resubmit next program year if not invited.