Queensland Skilled Migration Program 2025-26: Key Updates and New Opportunities

The Queensland Government has announced several significant updates to its Skilled Migration Program for the 2025–26 financial year. For skilled workers and international graduates, these changes provide new opportunities as well as the closure of some familiar pathways. As migration advisors, we’ve broken down the most important updates and what they mean for applicants looking to live and work in Queensland.

Recent Developments in Queensland’s Skilled Migration Program

New Construction Pathway

Queensland has introduced a new stream for building and construction occupations, providing skilled workers in these high-demand fields with a clearer pathway to permanent residency.

491 Small Business Pathway No Longer Available

Effective 19 September 2025, applicants who purchase or establish a business will no longer qualify for nomination. Any businesses purchased or established between 14-19 September must be settled by 30 September 2025.

Revised Work Requirements

For onshore applicants, there is now no need for a job offer to apply. The minimum working hours requirement has been reduced to just 20 hours per week, and casual employment is now accepted, making the process more accessible.

ROI System Relaunch

Starting 19 September 2025, all applicants must submit a new Registration of Interest (ROI), with each applicant only allowed to submit one ROI. This change will affect the application process and should be factored into your migration strategy.

Refined Selection Process

The queue system has been abolished, with selection now based on applicant profiles rather than submission timing. The new system includes separate streams for onshore and offshore candidates, which means a more transparent and merit-based approach to processing.

Extended EOI Validity

Expressions of Interest (EOI) will now remain valid for up to 715 days, nearly two years. This gives applicants more time to secure an invitation, providing more flexibility in the application process.

Expanded Flexibility in State of Interest

Applicants no longer need to list Queensland as their sole state of interest in SkillSelect. This allows for greater flexibility in where applicants can apply from.

Main Application Pathways

Graduate Pathway (Onshore)

• Eligibility: Must be in an occupation on Queensland’s skilled list (201 occupations).

• Visa Options: 

Visa Subclass	Requirement in Queensland
491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa	6+ months residence & work
190 Skilled Nominated Visa	9+ months residence & work

• Requirements: Minimum competent English, work must be occupation-related, and studies must be completed 100% in Queensland post-1 July 2021.

  
  

Construction & Building Pathway (New)

• Eligibility: Covers 46 listed construction-related occupations.

• Visa Options: 190 visa – Live and work in Queensland for at least 3 months.

• Requirements: Minimum competent English, work must be occupation-related, and study in a regional area.

Offshore Pathway

• Eligibility: 

  • 101 occupations for 190 Skilled Nominated Visa 

  • 113 occupations for 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

    
    

• Requirements: At least 1 year of relevant work experience, employment must continue at the time of invitation, minimum competent English.

Small Business (SBO) Pathway (Closing Soon)

• Eligibility: Applicants are ineligible if businesses are purchased or established after 19 September 2025.

• Final Chance: Businesses settled before 30 September 2025 will still be eligible.

Selection Criteria for Queensland’s Skilled Migration Program

Selection for the Skilled Migration Program will take into account:

• Skills and Qualifications

• Work Experience and Salary (onshore applicants)

• English Proficiency

• Age and Partner Skills

• Work Location (onshore applicants)

Importantly, EOI points are no longer the sole basis for selection. The overall competitiveness of an applicant will also be considered.

Queensland Skilled Migration Program 2025-26 Updates and Next Steps

The updates to Queensland’s Skilled Migration Program for 2025-26 offer new opportunities for skilled workers and international graduates, especially in high-demand fields like construction. With changes to the Small Business Pathway, work requirements, and the introduction of new pathways, applicants have a variety of options to explore.

If you’re considering applying for Queensland’s skilled migration pathways, it’s essential to understand the updated requirements and policies. Book a consultation with RACC Australia’s migration specialists to get tailored advice and ensure your application is aligned with the latest program updates. Our team will guide you through each step of the process, maximizing your chances of success.

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