Australia’s skilled migration program continues to attract talented professionals from around the world.If you’re aspiring to secure a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or aSkilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) - Family Sponsored, understanding the latestSkillSelect invitation rounds is essential.In this guide, we’ll break down...
Australia’s skilled migration program continues to attract talented professionals from around the world.
If you’re aspiring to secure a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or a
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family Sponsored, understanding the latest
SkillSelect invitation rounds is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down the invitation process, occupation ceilings, current round results, and state and territory nominations for 2025.
Overview of SkillSelect Invitation Rounds
SkillSelect invitation rounds are conducted periodically throughout the program year. Each round invites Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from skilled professionals, with invitation numbers varying depending on applications received.
- Departmental invitations do not impact state or territory government nominations.
- You can track results of past rounds via Previous rounds on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Occupation Ceilings
An occupation ceiling sets a maximum limit on the number of EOIs invited for a particular occupation. This ensures a balanced and diverse skilled migration program aligned with government priorities.
Visa subclasses not affected by occupation ceilings:
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – State and Territory Nominated
How the Invitation Process Works
SkillSelect prioritizes EOIs based on points scores. The highest-ranked candidates are invited first.
- If EOIs have equal points, a ‘tie break’ is applied, based on the date the EOI reached its score.
- Earlier EOIs receive invitations before later ones.
Current Invitation Round – 21 August 2025
| Visa Subclass | Total EOIs Invited | Tie Break Date (Month/Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 189 | 6,887 | 08/2025 |
| Subclass 491 (Family Sponsored) | 150 | 05/2025 |
Invitations by Occupation and Minimum Score
- Actuary: 90 points (189)
- Airconditioning & Mechanical Services Plumber: 65 points (189) | 70 points (491)
- Registered Nurse (Critical Care & Emergency): 80 points (189) | 65 points (491)
- Secondary School Teacher: 85 points (189) | 80 points (491)
For the complete list of invited occupations, visit the
Department of Home Affairs SkillSelect invitation page
.
Total Invitations Issued – 2025-26 Program Year
| Month | Subclass 189 | Subclass 491 (Family Sponsored) |
|---|---|---|
| Jul 2025 | 0 | 0 |
| Aug 2025 | 6,887 | 150 |
| Sep 2025 – Jun 2026 | 0 | 0 |
These figures exclude state and territory government-nominated invitations, which are issued throughout the month.
State and Territory Nominations – 2024-25
States and territories can nominate EOIs for skilled visas. Here’s a snapshot of nominations from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025:
| Visa Subclass | ACT | NSW | NT | QLD | SA | TAS | VIC | WA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 190 | 1000 | 3,000 | 800 | 600 | 3,000 | 2,100 | 3,000 | 3,000 |
| Subclass 491 (State/Territory Nominated) | 800 | 2,000 | 800 | 600 | 800 | 760 | 2,000 | 2,000 |
State and territory nominations ensure skilled professionals meet local labour market needs while contributing to Australia’s regional development.
Key Takeaways for Skilled Migration Applicants
- High points matter – Many occupations now require 85–95+ points to stay competitive.
- Healthcare & Trades are in demand – Applicants in these categories may have a greater chance at invitation.
- Consider state nomination – Subclass 190 and 491 (state/territory nominated) visas remain a strong alternative for those who miss out in independent rounds.
- Lodge early – Since tie-break rules apply, the earlier you reach your score, the better your chances.
Need Help With Your Skilled Migration Application?
At Global Consult, our registered Australian migration agents can:
- ✅ Assess your eligibility for subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas
- ✅ Maximise your points score with tailored strategies
- ✅ Assist with EOI submission and state nomination applications
- ✅ Guide you through the entire PR visa process
📞 Contact us today to book a consultation and take your next step towards living and working in Australia.
📍 Visit your nearest Global Consult office in Australia and Nepal.
Australia
- Sydney:📞 +61-2 8958 6749
- Canberra:📞 +61-2 6183 0811
- Parramatta:📞 +61-2 8606 4243 | +61-466 195 227
- Perth:📞 +61-861 508 374
- Tasmania:📞 +61-3 6170 9952 | +61-466 312 719
Nepal
- New Baneshwor, Kathmandu:📞 9801166574 | 01-4106740 | 01-5910893
- Putalisadak, Kathmandu:📞 01-4532604 | 9745723773
- Pokhara:📞 9822777613 | 061- 591023
- Chitwan:📞 056- 510 240
