Published: 17th of October 2025 4:46pm
The NSW Government has just announced an interim allocation for the 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program, setting the stage for a new round of invitations and updates to state nomination priorities.
🧭 Interim Allocation Overview
The Department of Home Affairs has provided NSW with an interim allocation while the full allocation is pending:
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa – 200 places
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visa – 180 places
🎯 Invitation Round for the Subclass 190 Visa
NSW will hold an invitation round next week, starting the week of 20th of October 2025 for nomination under the Subclass 190 Visa. Applicants are strongly encouraged to:
- Ensure your SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) is current
- Provide valid supporting evidence for all claims made in your EOI
Any claims in your EOI will need to be substantiated at the time of application — failure to do so may render your EOI ineligible.
🔧 NSW Priority Sectors
NSW has reaffirmed its focus on strategic sectors that align with its long-term growth and sustainability goals. The NSW Priority Sectors for 2025–26 are:
- Construction (infrastructure & housing)
- Net Zero & Energy Transition
- Care & Support Economy
- Digital & Cyber
- Agriculture & Agrifood
- Advanced Manufacturing
These align with the goals of the NSW State Migration Plan, aimed at attracting and retaining skilled workers in sectors critical to the state’s development.
📄 NSW Skills Lists Published
NSW has now published the 2025–26 NSW Skills Lists, which define eligible occupations (at the ANZSCO unit-group level) for both the subclass 190 and subclass 491 nomination streams.
💡 What This Means for Skilled Migrants
While the interim allocation is modest, it signals that NSW’s 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program is officially underway.
If your occupation falls within one of the priority sectors and is on the NSW Skills Lists, now is a critical time to:
- Review and update your EOI
- Gather and validate all your supporting documentation
- Monitor announcements for the invitation round and full allocation
Our team at Rocket & Ash will continue to monitor developments closely and provide timely guidance to help you prepare the strongest possible nomination application.
📞 Need Help with Your EOI or NSW Nomination?
Our team is ready to help skilled professionals understand their pathways, ensure document readiness, and maximise their chances in state nomination rounds.
👉 Book your free 15-minute discussion to talk through your options and next steps.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we specialise in helping partners, graduates, and professionals navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law. Our expertise in visa applications ensures that you receive tailored advice and support throughout your immigration journey.
If you require assistance with your Subclass 190 Skilled Independent visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.
Please book a free 15-minute discussion with our team if you have further questions.
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
This article does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional.