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Migration News

Australia's Migration Landscape: Key Updates for November 2025 & NSW 2025-26 Program

  • synergymigration
  • 2d
  • 4 min read

Australia's skilled migration programs are continuously evolving, bringing important updates for prospective migrants, employers, and migration agents. November 2025 has been a pivotal month, with significant announcements regarding State and Territory nominations, particularly from NSW, alongside crucial reminders for visa applicants.

NSW Government Unveils 2025-26 Skilled Migration Allocations


The New South Wales Government has released its much-anticipated skilled migration allocations for the 2025-26 program year, offering clarity for many aspiring migrants.

  • Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): NSW has been allocated 2,100 nominations.

  • Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491): NSW has received 1,500 nominations.

These allocations are crucial for candidates planning their migration strategies, highlighting the commitment of NSW to attract skilled professionals to the state.


Subclass 190 Visa: Invitation Rounds to Resume in January 2026


For the Subclass 190 visa, three invitation rounds have already been completed for the current program year. Good news for those waiting: monthly invitation rounds will recommence from January 2026 and continue until the annual allocation for NSW has been met. As of December 2025, approximately 25% of the total annual allocation has already been utilized.


Key Point: Only occupations listed on the official NSW Skills List will be considered for an invitation. Prospective applicants should ensure their occupation is on this list and that they meet all eligibility criteria before applying.


Subclass 491 Visa: Pathways Opening January 2026


The Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) offers distinct pathways for those looking to live and work in regional NSW. Two key pathways are set to open their doors soon:

  • Pathway 1 – Work in Regional NSW: This pathway will open on January 19, 2026. Applicants who meet the minimum income threshold and have been employed in regional NSW for at least six months are eligible. All occupations listed for the Subclass 491 visa are permitted under this pathway.

  • Pathway 3 – Regional NSW Graduate: Also opening on January 19, 2026, this pathway is for graduates who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher from an educational institution located in a designated regional area of NSW. Only occupations on the NSW Regional Skills List are eligible.


Important Application Information for Subclass 491:


  • Valid Applications: Applications will be processed chronologically. To be considered valid, an application must satisfy all NSW eligibility requirements at the time of submission, supported by current documents (skills assessment, English language test, etc.) that remain valid for at least five days post-submission.

  • Expedited Assessment Requests: While assessments typically take up to six weeks, priority processing can be requested under specific urgent circumstances, such as an expiring visa, English test, skills assessment, passport, or an imminent loss of points due to age within ten working days.


Pathway 2 – Invitation by NSW: The need for an invitation round under Pathway 2 will be determined based on the demand for nominations under Pathways 1 and 3. If required, the earliest this round could occur is April 2026.


National Invitation Round: November 2025 Highlights


On November 13, 2025, the Department conducted a significant invitation round for the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) visa.

  • A total of 10,300 invitations were issued.

  • 10,000 invitations for the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa.

  • 300 invitations for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) visa under the Family Sponsored stream.

Further details, including specific minimum points scores for invited occupations, are available on the Department’s official website.


Key Reminders for a Smooth Migration Journey


Beyond specific program updates, there are crucial procedural reminders for all applicants:


Bridging Visa B (BVB) Applications: With the festive season approaching, there's an anticipated surge in BVB applications. To avoid travel disruptions, the Department advises lodging BVB applications at least two weeks prior to your intended travel date. Lodge as early as possible to allow sufficient processing time.


Strengthening Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) Applications: There's been an increase in refusals for SBS applications where the sponsoring business cannot adequately demonstrate it is "lawfully operating." Beyond lawful establishment, case officers are now seeking clear evidence of active business operations. To enhance application success, businesses should provide externally verified documents such as:

  • Letters of support from accountants

  • Annual reports with external financial statements

  • Tax returns

  • Multiple Business Activity Statements (BAS)

  • Bank statements showing regular transactions

A comprehensive range of independently verified documents will significantly improve the likelihood of satisfying case officers.


Clarification on Skills Assessing Authorities for ANZSCO 224999


Confusion persists regarding the skills assessing authority for "Information and Organisation Professionals nec (ANZSCO 224999)," largely due to inconsistencies in legislative instruments.

  • For GSM visas: VETASSESS is typically the assessing authority for ANZSCO 224999 (excluding Data Scientist). For "Information and Organisation Professionals nec – Data Scientist only," ACS is the assessing authority.

  • For Subclass 186 visas: LIN 24/093 specifies VETASSESS as the assessing authority for ANZSCO 224999. Data Scientist (ANZSCO 224115) has its own code under this program, with ACS as the assessing authority.

Applicants are strongly advised to exercise caution and thoroughly cross-check legislative instruments and occupation lists to ensure they identify the correct skills assessing authority for their specific visa subclass.


Stay Informed for Success


The Australian skilled migration landscape is dynamic. Staying updated on the latest policy changes, invitation rounds, and application requirements is paramount for a successful migration outcome. Always refer to official government websites or consult with registered migration professionals for personalized advice.


At Synergy Migration, we are committed to guiding skilled professionals through every step of the NSW nomination and visa process — from preparing your EOI to managing documentation and eligibility checks. Contact our registered migration agents today to discuss your visa options and take the next step toward building your future in New South Wales!


Synergy Migration Services - Trusted companion for your migration journey

📞 Hotline: (07) 3190 8600

💼 Book a consultation: www.synergy-migration.com.au/contact-us

📍 Address: 6/621 Coronation Dr, Toowong, QLD, Australia 4066

 
 
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