NSW Skilled Migration Program Open: Subclass 190 & 491 Breakdown
- RACC Australia - Education and Migration Services
- Oct 10, 2025
- 2 min read
The NSW Skilled Migration Program 2025-26 is now open, offering skilled workers and graduates the opportunity to live, work, and study in New South Wales. With both the permanent Subclass 190 Visa and the regional Subclass 491 Visa available, applicants can select pathways that suit their employment or study background while meeting all the requirements.
Visa Options for Migrating to NSW
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 visa is a state-sponsored permanent visa that allows skilled workers to live and work anywhere in NSW. To apply, candidates must meet the general DOHA requirements:
Be under 45 years old at the time of nomination, invitation, and visa finalisation.
Have an Expression of Interest (EOI) selected.
Live in NSW or be offshore.
Occupation listed on the NSW Skills List.
Hold a valid skills assessment.
Receive NSW state nomination and invitation to apply.
Meet points test, competent English, health, and character requirements.
NSW Skilled Migration Program Specific Requirements
Skills Assessment: Occupation must be on the eligible skilled occupation list and fall within an ANZSCO unit group identified on the NSW Skills List.
Residency: Must meet one of the following:
Working in NSW in your nominated occupation.
Residing in NSW continuously for at least 6 months.
Residing offshore continuously for at least 6 months.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 491 visa is a provisional regional visa requiring nomination by the state or sponsorship by an eligible relative. To qualify, applicants must meet DOHA requirements similar to the 190 visa and follow one of three pathways:
Pathway 1 – Regional NSW Employment
Currently employed in a designated regional area.
Continuous employment for the past 6 months with the same NSW employer.
Employment must be in the nominated (or closely related) occupation and paid at least TSMIT/CSIT.
Pathway 2 – Invitation by Investment NSW
Skilled in an occupation on the NSW Regional Skills List.
Meet Home Affairs’ 491 eligibility.
Must satisfy at least one residency criterion: working in NSW in nominated occupation, living in NSW for 3+ months, or offshore for 3+ months.
Pathway 3 – Graduate from a Regional NSW Institution
Bachelor’s degree or higher completed in Regional NSW within 2 years.
Study must relate to nominated or closely related occupation.
Must meet residency requirements and skills criteria.
Salary Concessions (TSMIT/CSIT)
Type 1: At least 90% of TSMIT/CSIT in monetary earnings; total package meets award and AMSR standards.
Type 2: At least 90% of TSMIT/CSIT in cash; up to 10% non-monetary benefits allowed.
Eligible occupations include:
Cafe or Restaurant Manager
Medical Laboratory Scientist
Agricultural Technician
Pharmacy Technician
Motor Mechanic
Panel Beater
Cook
Butcher
Veterinary Nurse
Residential Care Officer, and more.
NSW Skilled Migration Open: Book a Consultation
The NSW Skilled Migration Program 2025-26 offers excellent opportunities for skilled workers looking to live and work in New South Wales. To apply, review, or finalise your application, contact our migration team at migration6@racc.net.au and cc allison@racc.net.au.
Applicants who have already submitted an EOI and received an invitation can use the discount code RACCNSW2025 to receive 40% off service fees — reducing the original $2,500 + GST fee to $1,500 + GST. Our migration specialists will guide you through each step to ensure a smooth and compliant application process.
