Skilled Migrants Alert: NSW Subclass 190 Visa Allocation

New South Wales (NSW) has announced that it has reached its nomination allocation for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) for the 2024–25 program year. This development has significant implications for skilled migrants aiming to settle in NSW. Understanding the current landscape and exploring alternative pathways is crucial for prospective applicants.

Significance of the Subclass 190 Allocation Being Reached

1. Implications for Skilled Migrants

With the subclass 190 nomination allocation fulfilled, no further invitations will be issued for this visa subclass until the commencement of the 2025–26 program year. This pause affects many skilled professionals who were considering NSW as their destination.

2. Shift in Migration Strategy

The early fulfillment of the subclass 190 quota indicates a strategic shift in NSW's migration planning, emphasizing the need for applicants to stay informed about changing priorities and allocations.

3. Increased Competition

The high demand for the subclass 190 visa underscores the competitive nature of skilled migration to NSW. Applicants must ensure their profiles are robust and align with the state's current needs.

4. Exploration of Alternative Pathways

Given the current status of the subclass 190 visa, skilled migrants are encouraged to explore other avenues, such as the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491), to achieve their migration goals.

Alternative Pathway: Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

The Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) offers a viable alternative for skilled migrants aiming to live and work in regional NSW. This visa is points-tested and allows holders to reside in designated regional areas for up to five years.

Pathway 2: Invitation by Investment NSW

NSW is anticipated to issue invitations for the subclass 491 – Pathway 2 before the end of this week. To be considered, applicants must ensure their Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect is accurate and up to date. For more information about this nomination pathway, visit the NSW Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) page.

Eligibility Criteria

• Occupation: Must be within an ANZSCO unit group identified on the NSW Regional Skills List.

• Residency: Applicants must have continuously resided in NSW or offshore for a minimum period of three months.

• EOI: A valid EOI must be submitted in SkillSelect, selecting NSW as the preferred state.

Advantages of the Subclass 491 Visa

• Regional Opportunities: Encourages settlement in regional areas, addressing local skill shortages.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Holders may be eligible to apply for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191) after meeting certain criteria.

• Priority Sectors: Focus on critical sectors such as health, education, ICT, infrastructure, and agriculture.

Explore More Resources

• Learn about Australia's first migrant workers centre supporting immigration in NSW: Australia's First Migrant Workers Centre Supports Immigration in NSW

• For personalized assistance, schedule a consultation with our migration specialists: A2Zimmi Consultation

The early fulfillment of NSW's subclass 190 visa allocation highlights the dynamic nature of Australia's skilled migration landscape. While this may pose challenges for some applicants, alternative pathways like the subclass 491 visa offer promising opportunities. Staying informed and proactive is key to navigating these changes successfully.

Ready to explore your options? Visit A2Zimmi or schedule a consultation with our experts today to chart your path to Australia.