2026 State Nomination Trends for Subclass 190 & 491

The Subclass 190 and 491 are both the most desirable visa options among skilled migrants seeking to live and work in Australia. Well, the perks of these pathways are actually ample, which is why thousands of applicants try to secure their Australian dream through these state-nominated visas.

For years, Visa applicants have aimed to earn the most points possible in order to secure a state nomination and, eventually, a Subclass 190 or 491 visa, which has worked well up until now. However, in 2026, things are quite different. States are no longer relying solely on points. Instead, they are expecting much more from applicants in order to qualify for nomination.

If you are also thinking of applying for either Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) or Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa), this guide breaks down the most important developments, helping you prepare your application with current requirements.

Understanding 190 vs 491 Visas

Before getting on to the new changes, let’s have a quick review of these Australian state-nominated visas.

• Subclass 190 Visa: It is a permanent residency visa offered to candidates nominated by an Australian state or territory. This 190 Visa allows eligible individuals to work and live anywhere in the nominated state of Australia.
• Subclass 491 Visa: A provisional visa valid for five years. It requires applicants to live and work in regional areas and stick to other visa requirements to obtain permanent residency later.

These visas vary in the fact that one gives direct permanent residency, while the other is part of the PR pathway. But both visas share similarities as well, as they require the submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI), a nomination from a state or territory, and an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

Key Shift in 2026: Points Aren’t Enough For Subclass 190 & 491

One of the most important changes in 2026 is that state governments are following a stricter approach and not clinging just to points for selecting candidates. They are following the more strategic option and viewing the complete profile and analysing the candidates based on many factors, such as:

• Occupation demand within the state
• Relevant work experience
• English language proficiency
• Whether the applicant is onshore or offshore, and more

Actually, in 2025–26, total nomination places are limited. For Subclass 190, there are 12,850 places, while 7,500 places are available for Subclass 491. The fewer spots have increased the competition, and that’s why states are becoming more selective in choosing candidates.

Now, what this means is that you also need to strengthen your complete visa profile instead of running for just points. These points remain critical, but they are not the only ones.

States such as Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, and South Australia have already implemented and incorporated these changes into their official programs. We will cover them specifically ahead, but let’s first understand this new nomination trend in detail.

Occupation Demand Is the Primary Driver

Although this is not new, Australia’s migration priorities are closely aligned with labour shortages. However, the states now consider it one of the primary criteria for selecting applicants. In 2026, sectors such as healthcare, engineering, information and communication technology (ICT), education, and construction are in high demand, and applicants applying in these sectors receive invitations faster, sometimes with fewer points.

Onshore Candidates Have an Advantage

Australian immigration authorities now prioritise candidates who are already working in Australia and applying for these visas. It is basically because these profiles have already passed major criteria for their previous visas. Hence, it is easier to verify them, and they pose a lower settlement risk.

Having said that, offshore applicants continue to receive invitations for high-demand occupations.

Relevant Work Experience Matters More Than Ever

Work experience has become one of the most important evaluation criteria in 2026, which is actually quite practical, as it signifies you are employment-ready. States are focusing not only on experience in the nominated occupation, but also on consistency and alignment with industry demand.

So, if you have extensive, consistent, and relevant experience in the nominated occupation you are applying for, your profile will undoubtedly benefit.

English Proficiency Is a Key Differentiator

English language proficiency was important before as well, but it is now a major factor in visa selection. A good score in tests like IELTS or PTE can not only enhance overall points, but Proficient or Superior English can strengthen your profile and improve your ranking in state selection.

State-Wise Nomination Strategies For Subclass 190 And 491

Although all of the states are taking a broader approach, each has its own nomination process. Let’s talk about these:

Victoria (VIC)

Victoria uses a highly selective and invitation-only nomination system for visa nomination. It actually has one of the largest nomination allocations in the country, with approximately 3,400 seats in 2025-26, with 2,700 for 190 and 700 for 491. Thus, the competition is high due to high demand.

The state focuses on priority sectors and requires a registration of interest (ROI). It prioritises professionals with extensive experience in fields such as healthcare and technology, a consistent EOI, and strong English skills.

Queensland (QLD)

There are 2,600 spots available in Queensland, 1,850 for subclass 190 and 750 for subclass 491. The state strongly prefers applicants applying for nomination in streams like Healthcare & Social Services, Engineering & Construction, Information Technology (ICT), Education & Counselling, Urban Planning & Architecture, Hospitality & Retail, and Healthcare. Additionally, candidates from Australia who have a strong desire to relocate to a rural area are given an advantage.

New South Wales (NSW)

NSW is one of the most competitive states for these visas, and that’s why it employs the targeted selection model. Applicants prefer this state because it has invitation rounds throughout the year, but this makes it unpredictable, and some pathways may close early once allocations are full. High-performing professionals in IT, healthcare, and engineering with strong employment profiles are more likely to be selected in New South Wales.

Western Australia (WA)

Western Australia has a more flexible and expanding migration program than other states, as it actually follows a stream-based invitation system. The state doesn’t have a specific preference between onshore and offshore applicants, which makes it a better option over other states that strongly favour onshore applicants.

However, Western Australia does have a preference for profiles applying for in-demand occupations such as mining, construction, and healthcare.

South Australia (SA)

South Australia has around 1,350 nominations for subclass 190 and 900 for subclass 491. It is one of the most accessible states that holds consistent invitation rounds. Candidates in high-demand occupations have a good chance of being eligible, even with moderate points.

Practical Strategy for Subclass 190 & 491 Applicants

Changes are quite evident, but following the below-mentioned strategies can surely maximise your chances:

• Pick the state that matches your occupation and experience.
• Follow state-specific rules when applying.
• Work on improving English scores, work experience, and certifications.
• Keep your EOI updated and prepared for frequent invitation rounds.
• Consider the 491 Pathway, as it may be more achievable.

Final Thoughts

Australia PR in 2026 is about more than just scoring high points; it’s about improving your overall profile. If you do not approach your application strategically, you may struggle even with a high score.

Ozee Migration helps applicants achieve their Australian dream through strategic and tailored approaches. From selecting the right state to strengthening your application and aligning it with state-specific nomination trends, we provide expert guidance throughout your Subclass 190 or 491 visa journey. Schedule a consultation today.

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