Published 19 September 2025

Migration Queensland has officially opened the Registration of Interest (ROI) process for its 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program, as announced during a recent face-to-face session hosted by the Migration Institute of Australia (QLD/NT branch).

If you’re considering Queensland state nomination this year, here’s what you need to know.

The 2025–26 program opened for ROIs on 19 September 2025. Migration Queensland has received a small interim allocation of 250 nomination places to start the year, with the full allocation expected later this month.

Candidates seeking Queensland nomination must submit a new ROI for this program year, even if they applied previously. Only one ROI can be active at a time—if multiple are submitted, only the most recent will be considered. It’s recommended that applicants print or save a copy of their ROI at the time of submission, as Migration Queensland is unable to provide a copy later.

What are the key changes for 2025–26

Updated Occupation Lists

Revised onshore and offshore occupation lists have been released. These lists can be found on the Migration Queensland website: here. 

Changes to Migration Pathways

Several notable pathway changes have been announced:

  • A new onshore pathway has been introduced for the Building and Construction workforce.

  • The Offshore Energy Workers pathway has been removed.

  • The Subclass 491 Small Business Owners pathway will close from 19 September. Businesses purchased or started after this date will no longer be eligible. However, businesses established before this date may still be invited to apply.

Expression of Interest (EOI) Adjustments

There is no longer a requirement to create a new EOI each year. EOIs up to 715 days old will be accepted. EOIs are also no longer limited to Queensland and can include multiple states.

Updates to Program Requirements

  • The ongoing work requirement for onshore applicants has been removed.

  • Minimum work hours have been reduced to 20 hours per week.

  • Queensland work experience requirements have been adjusted, and casual work is now accepted.

  • For offshore applicants, proof of settlement funds is no longer required.

Selection Criteria

Migration Queensland has outlined the following selection factors:

  • Skills and qualifications

  • Relevant work experience

  • Salary (for onshore applicants)

  • English language competency

  • Age

  • Partner’s occupation and English level

  • Location of employment (for onshore applicants)

Applicants should also note revised ROI questions related to partners, and a new method of calculating annualised earnings, which may differ from a traditional salary figure. Different rules apply depending on whether the applicant is employed or self-employed.

What’s Next?

Migration Queensland has indicated that the 2025–26 program year will include more frequent, smaller invitation rounds. The full details and updated documents will be available on the Migration Queensland website from 19 September onward.

How We Can Help?

Navigating migration updates can be complex. If you’re unsure how these changes affect your eligibility or you’re ready to lodge your ROI, the team at Reid Legal is here to assist. We provide up-to-date, practical guidance on Queensland state nomination and broader skilled migration matters.

Get in touch with our team today to book a consultation or find out more about your options.