(MENAFN- Market Press Release) October 10, 2025 2:24 am - Victoria has opened its 2025-26 Skilled Migration Program for subclass 190 & 491 visas. International graduates and skilled workers can prepare EOIs and docs for state nomination, with guidance available through platforms.

Melbourne, Australia – October 10, 2025 – The State Government of Victoria has officially launched its 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program, signaling a significant opportunity for skilled professionals both within Australia and internationally. This initiative is aimed at addressing critical workforce shortages across multiple high-demand sectors, including healthcare, education, construction, and technology, while supporting the state's broader economic and social development goals.

Program Overview
Victoria's Skilled Migration Program is designed to nominate skilled migrants for two primary visa subclasses: the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491). The program provides a structured pathway for applicants to live, work, and eventually gain permanent residency in Victoria.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa: This is a permanent visa that allows skilled professionals nominated by the Victorian government to live and work anywhere within the state. Applicants benefit from state sponsorship, which can enhance their chances of receiving an invitation compared to general Skilled Independent visa applications.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa: This is a temporary visa that encourages skilled workers to live and work in designated regional areas of Victoria. After three years of residence and work in regional areas, applicants can transition to permanent residency.

For the 2025–26 program, Victoria has been allocated an interim nomination quota of 200 places for subclass 190 and 180 places for subclass 491. These figures are subject to change based on final government allocations and priority needs identified through workforce planning.

Eligibility and Application Process
Applicants seeking state nomination under this program must demonstrate their skills and qualifications meet Victorian requirements. Eligibility includes:

1. Age: Applicants must generally be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.
2. English Proficiency: Competent English is required, with higher proficiency levels adding points in the overall assessment.
3. Skills Assessment: Applicants must receive a positive skills assessment in their nominated occupation through the relevant assessing authority.
4. Points Test: The Australian points test applies, and applicants must generally meet a minimum of 65 points to be considered.

The application process involves two key steps: submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through Skill Select and lodging a Registration of Interest (ROI) via Victoria's official migration portal. Applicants are encouraged to maintain their documentation and EOI information in readiness for invitation rounds, which are expected to commence later in the year.

Priority Occupation Sectors
Victoria has identified certain industries as priority sectors for the 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program. Applicants with qualifications or work experience in these areas are likely to be given preference for state nomination. These include:

1. Health & Social Services: There is continued demand for nurses, allied health professionals, and aged care specialists to support the state's growing healthcare needs.
2. Education & Early Childhood: Skilled teachers and early childhood educators remain in high demand, particularly in regional areas.
3. Medical Technologies & Pharmaceuticals: The health and biotech industries are expanding, requiring qualified professionals with specialized technical expertise.
4. Digital Technology & ICT: Skilled IT professionals, software engineers, and data analysts are increasingly needed to support the state's digital transformation initiatives.
5. Construction & Transport Technologies: With infrastructure projects growing, demand continues for civil engineers, project managers, and trade specialists.
6. New Energy & Emissions Reduction: Professionals with expertise in renewable energy, environmental engineering, and sustainable technologies are sought to advance Victoria's climate and sustainability goals.
7. Food, Fiber & Agribusiness: Skilled individuals in agriculture, food processing, and agribusiness management support regional development and food security.
8. Creative Industries: Artists, designers, and media professionals help strengthen Victoria's cultural and creative economy.

International Students and Graduates
While the program primarily targets applicants already eligible for skilled migration, it presents opportunities for international students planning their future careers in Australia. Students completing courses aligned with high-demand occupations in Victoria may increase their eligibility for state nomination. Completing relevant qualifications in Australia not only helps meet occupation requirements but can also earn additional points under the Australian skilled migration points system.

International students and recent graduates often face questions regarding which courses and pathways best align with PR eligibility. Educational guidance platforms, such as ApplyOn, provide resources to help prospective migrants plan their study and career paths strategically. These resources may include guidance on selecting courses that meet occupation lists, understanding points calculation, or exploring eligibility for state nomination. While ApplyOn does not directly manage visa applications, its services can assist students in making informed decisions to strengthen their future skilled migration prospects.

Invitation Rounds and Timelines
The Victorian government has indicated that invitation rounds for the 2025–26 program will occur later in the year. Applicants should ensure their EOIs and supporting documents are complete and up-to-date. Early preparation can be critical, given the limited nomination allocations and the competitive nature of the process. Prospective applicants are also advised to regularly check government updates, as allocations and eligibility requirements may change in response to shifting labor market needs.

Economic and Social Impact
Victoria's Skilled Migration Program plays a vital role in addressing workforce gaps, particularly in sectors critical to the state's growth and wellbeing. By strategically nominating skilled migrants, Victoria not only supports its economic priorities but also fosters cultural diversity and strengthens communities across metropolitan and regional areas. Skilled migrants contribute significantly to local economies, innovation, and social development, supporting long-term sustainability and resilience.

Additional Resources
For applicants navigating the skilled migration process, several resources provide guidance and information:
Victoria's official migration portal: Live in Melbourne
Australian Government Department of Home Affairs: SkillSelect
Education and career guidance platforms, including ApplyOn which can help prospective applicants plan courses and career pathways to enhance skilled migration eligibility.

The 2025–26 Victorian Skilled Migration Program represents an important opportunity for skilled professionals seeking to contribute to the state's workforce while pursuing long-term residency. International graduates and prospective migrants are encouraged to review eligibility criteria, understand priority sectors, and prepare documentation to maximize their chances of nomination. By aligning skills and qualifications with Victoria's economic needs, applicants can position themselves strategically for successful migration outcomes.

Note: All allocations, timelines, and requirements are subject to change as per Victorian government updates.

Contact:
Ritika Sharma
Manager at ApplyOn
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