📢 Skilled Visa Update – NSW 190 Now Closed & 491 Pathway 2 Round Incoming
Last updated: 4 June 2025
If you're waiting for an invitation to apply for a Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) or Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa, there’s been a major update from NSW.
❌ NSW 190 Program Closed for 2024–25
NSW has now reached its full nomination allocation for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa for the 2024–25 program year.
No further invitations will be issued for this visa subclass until the next program year begins in the new financial year – and only after the federal government provides a new allocation.
If you're still hoping for an invitation under this pathway, unfortunately you'll now need to wait for the 2025–26 program year.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN? If you are waiting on an invitation and if your current visa expires within the next 4-6 months, now is time to look seriously into any back up options (such as employer sponsorship).
BOOK A STRAT CHAT WITH US TO DISCUSS BACK UP OPTIONS
⏳ NSW 491 Pathway 2 Invitations Coming This Week
NSW has confirmed that final invitations under Pathway 2 for the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa are expected before the end of this week.
Pathway 2 is designed for applicants with skills in demand in regional NSW, even if they’re not currently living in NSW.
More details can be found on the NSW government website.
🔁 Recap: Where the States Were At (as at 30 April 2025)
As of the end of April, many states and territories were already close to reaching their nomination allocations for the 2024–25 program year.
Here’s a general overview:
Victoria had used 99.7% of its 190 places and 95.7% of its 491 places. Their Registration of Interest system closed in April. Effectively Closed
South Australia had filled over 85% of its allocations and has since closed its Registration of Interest system too. Effectively Closed
NSW Now closed for 190s, final 491 invites to go out this week
Queensland had only a small number of spots left across both subclasses. Effectively Closed
ACT and Tasmania had some availability left, but not much.
Northern Territory has confirmed it is closed for both 190 and 491 nominations.
Western Australia still had significant allocation left, but their nomination process had been slower than other states, so it’s likely they will run out very soon if not already.
🔍 What This Means for Skilled Applicants Right Now
With the 189 program seemingly over its annual allocation and most states either closed or nearly full for 190 nominations, applicants should be proactive. If you are waiting on an invitation and your current visa expires within the next 4-6 months, now is time to look seriously into any back up options (such as employer sponsorship). BOOK A STRAT CHAT WITH US TO DISCUSS BACK UP OPTIONS
⚠️ Important Reminder
This update is based on publicly available information as of 4 June 2025 from official government sources. It is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice. Always speak with a migration lawyer or registered agent for guidance on your specific situation.