Victoria has reopened its skilled migration nomination for 2025–26, aiming to attract in-demand talent both locally and internationally. The state has received a small interim allocation of visa places, with the full allocation expected soon from the Department of Home Affairs.

Here’s what’s confirmed and what you need to prepare for.

Interim Allocation and Current Process

  • Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190): 200 places

  • Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491): 180 places

  • Existing Registrations of Interest (ROIs) are still valid. You only need to submit a new one if your situation or details have changed.

These figures are interim. Victoria’s final allocation could increase once the federal government releases the full program numbers.

Who Can Apply and How

To be considered for nomination by Victoria, you must:

  1. Meet all current visa eligibility requirements for your chosen subclass (190 or 491)

  2. Submit a valid Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect

  3. Submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) via the Live in Melbourne portal, referencing your EOI number

Once invited, you’ll proceed with the full application through the same portal.

Key Eligibility and Nomination Criteria

Victoria’s criteria go beyond federal requirements. Key factors include:

  • You must be under 45 years of age at the time of nomination

  • English proficiency at Competent level, with at least 12 weeks’ validity remaining on test results

  • A valid skills assessment in an occupation on the relevant skilled list that matches your EOI

  • A minimum of 65 points on the Department of Home Affairs points test (including nomination points)

  • A genuine intention to live and work in Victoria, or regional Victoria for the 491 visa

  • Onshore applicants must already be residing in Victoria; applicants in other Australian states are generally not selected

  • Offshore applicants may apply but must demonstrate a commitment to living in Victoria

  • For onshore applicants: if working in a skilled occupation in Victoria, you may list your estimated earnings in the ROI—but only if your employer is physically located in Victoria

  • Priority is typically given to occupations in sectors like health, education, construction, social services, hospitality, tourism, digital economy, and advanced manufacturing

What’s Still Unclear

  • The final number of places allocated to Victoria for 2025–26 is pending

  • There may be adjustments to eligibility criteria or priority sectors once the full program is released

  • Frequency and timing of ROI invitation rounds haven’t been disclosed

With such limited interim places available, competition is expected to be tight. Even if your ROI isn’t picked up right away, it may still be considered once the full allocation is announced.

How to Strengthen Your Application

  • Make sure your EOI and ROI are fully updated with accurate information

  • Improve English test scores, work experience, and qualifications where possible to boost your points

  • Document your skilled employment and earnings if working in Victoria

  • Select an occupation in a priority sector if eligible

  • Be prepared to act quickly if invited—deadlines are strict

  • Keep an eye on the Live in Melbourne portal for updates

For any further questions or assistance please get in touch with the Reid Legal Group Team  today.