Victoria’s 2025–26 Skilled Visa Nomination Program: Full Allocation Confirmed

The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs has officially confirmed the full allocation for Victoria’s 2025–26 Skilled Visa Nomination Program. This program allows eligible skilled migrants—both in Victoria and overseas—to apply for a state nomination under Victoria’s skilled visa pathways.

State nomination continues to be an important pathway for skilled professionals seeking to live, work, and establish their future in Victoria or regional areas. With clear criteria and defined quotas, Victoria aims to attract global talent to support the state’s economic growth.

Victoria’s Skilled Visa Allocation for 2025–26

For the 2025–26 program year, Victoria has been allocated a total of 3,400 skilled visa nomination places, divided into the following categories:

1. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): 2,700 places
2. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491): 700 places

The higher allocation for subclass 190 indicates strong opportunities for skilled professionals aiming to settle in metropolitan Victoria.

This distribution gives skilled migrants flexible options depending on their career goals and preferred location within Victoria.

Existing Registrations of Interest (ROI)

If you already have an active Registration of Interest (ROI), you do not need to submit a new one unless your circumstances or details have changed. Previously submitted ROIs remain valid for the 2025–26 program year.

Double-check your existing ROI for accuracy to avoid delays or missed opportunities.

Online Information Session

To help applicants better understand the nomination process, Victoria will host an online information session:

1. Date: Thursday, 27 November 2025
2. Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
3. Registration is required to attend

The session will cover eligibility requirements, the application process, and practical tips for submitting a strong nomination application.

Attending official sessions can give applicants key insights and increase the chance of a successful nomination.

Skilled Visa Pathways in Victoria

Victoria offers skilled visa nominations through two primary visa subclasses. Each pathway supports different professional and residency goals.

Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)

The subclass 190 visa is a permanent visa for skilled migrants. Key benefits include:

1. Permission to live and work anywhere in Victoria
2. Ideal for skilled professionals seeking long-term settlement
3. Flexibility to relocate within Victoria for work or personal reasons

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)

The subclass 491 visa is a provisional visa for skilled workers intending to live and work in regional Victoria. Key features include:

1. A 5-year provisional visa allowing residence in designated regional areas
2. A pathway to permanent residency through the subclass 191 visa after meeting residency and work requirements
3. Opportunities to contribute to regional economic development

Applicants interested in regional work can gain permanent residency while helping boost regional economies.

How to Apply for Victorian Visa Nomination

Applying for state nomination involves several steps. Following each step accurately increases your chances of receiving an invitation.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements for your chosen visa:

1. Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
2. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)

Requirements may include your occupation, age, English language ability, skills assessment, and work experience.

Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Create or update your Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Australian Government’s SkillSelect system.

1. Your EOI shows your intention to migrate and outlines your skills and experience.
2. Ensure all information is complete and accurate, as it will be used for nomination consideration.

Step 3: Submit a Registration of Interest (ROI)

After submitting your EOI, create an account on the Live in Melbourne portal and submit a Registration of Interest (ROI).

1. The ROI allows Victoria to assess your suitability for nomination.
2. Your ROI must reflect the same information included in your EOI.

Step 4: Submit Your Nomination Application

If you receive an invitation, you can then submit your nomination application through the Live in Melbourne portal.

Step 5: Apply for Your Visa

If your nomination is approved, you may proceed to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.

Following the correct steps helps ensure your application is decision-ready, improves your chances of approval, and reduces processing delays.

How Emigrate Lawyers Can Help

Navigating Victoria’s skilled visa nomination process can be complex. Emigrate Lawyers provide expert assistance throughout the process, including:

1. Assessing your eligibility for the subclass 190 and 491 visas
2. Assisting with your EOI and ROI submissions
3. Preparing strong nomination applications
4. Advising on pathways to permanent residency

Our team ensures every application is complete, accurate, and decision-ready, helping you avoid common mistakes and delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Do I need to submit a new ROI if I already have one?

A1 – Only if your information has changed. Otherwise, your existing ROI remains valid for the 2025–26 program.

Q2. Can I apply for both the subclass 190 and subclass 491 visas?

A2 – Yes. You may apply for both as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each and submit separate ROIs.

Q3. How long does it take to receive an invitation after submitting an ROI?

A3 – Processing times vary based on demand and eligibility. You should regularly check the Live in Melbourne portal for updates.

Q4. Do I need to live in Victoria if I receive a subclass 190 visa?

A4 – Yes, subclass 190 visa holders are expected to live and work in Victoria. Subclass 491 holders must live and work in regional Victoria to meet permanent residency requirements.

Q5. Where can I get more information?

A5 – Visit the Live in Melbourne website or subscribe to their updates. You may also contact Emigrate Lawyers for personalised guidance.

Conclusion

Victoria’s 2025–26 Skilled Visa Nomination Program offers a major opportunity for skilled professionals who wish to live, work, and contribute to Victoria or regional areas. By following the required steps and seeking support from Emigrate Lawyers, applicants can significantly improve their chances of securing a nomination and achieving a pathway to permanent residency in Australia.

Source: https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/migrate/skilled-migration-visas/2025-26-skilled-migration-visa-nomination-program2025-26 Skilled visa nomination program