Breaking Down ACT 190 and 491 Visa Allocations for 2024-25

The ACT Migration program plays a vital role in addressing skills shortages and supporting economic growth. With the start of the 2024-25 program year, we are pleased to share updates on allocation changes, policy updates, and important considerations for applicants and agents.

2024-25 Allocation Overview

The Department of Home Affairs has increased planning levels for state and territory nominated visa programs, with 33,000 places allocated to these categories—a rise of 3,300 from last year. For the ACT, the 2024-25 allocations are:

Visa Type	Allocation
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)	1,000
Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491)	800
Total	1,800

This marks a 50% increase from the previous year, although it remains below the allocation initially requested by the ACT.

Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)

Effective July 2024, the Department of Home Affairs has permanently closed the BIIP for new applications under the 188 visa category. However, ACT nominations for the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888) will continue to be processed.

Nomination Guidelines and Critical Skills List

The ACT Nomination Guidelines and ACT Critical Skills List remain unchanged since April 2023. A review is expected in early 2025, with updates shared promptly. While we aim to provide adequate notice of changes, adjustments may occur on short notice. Please check the ACT Migration website regularly for the latest information.

Invitation Rounds

We strive to maintain a consistent schedule for invitation rounds. Key details include:

• Smaller Rounds: Early rounds in the financial year may have smaller sizes, resulting in higher minimum scores for some occupations.
• Larger Rounds: Anticipated for later in the year, accommodating more applicants.
• Upcoming Rounds: The last invitation round of 2024 occurred on 26 November 2024. The next round is scheduled before 14 February 2025.

High-priority occupations, including teaching, healthcare, and social assistance, will remain a focus. Updates will be posted on the ACT Migration website.

Application Processing and Best Practices

We are committed to processing applications within three weeks. To facilitate timely and accurate outcomes, please:

• Provide All Documents: Ensure all required documents from the Key Documents Checklist - Migration are included.
• Verify Accuracy: Double-check all information on SkillSelect EOIs before submission.
• Follow Updated Guidelines: Refer only to the latest guidelines to avoid errors caused by outdated information.

One Nomination Place per Applicant Policy

Each individual can receive only one nomination place, whether for a subclass 491 or 190 visa. Duplicating nominations is not permitted, as places are limited and non-refundable once allocated. To avoid complications, ensure:

• Accurate details are provided in both the ACT nomination application and the SkillSelect EOI.
• All submissions align with the current policies.