Australia 2026-27 Migration Program: Increased Quota for Skilled Independent & State Nominated Visas
The Australian Government has released the planning levels for the 2026-27 Migration Program, confirming a significant increase in places allocated to the skilled stream. Higher quotas have been assigned to the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), State/Territory Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491). This policy shift aims to address critical labour shortages while supporting long-term economic growth and regional development.
The revised planning levels provide greater certainty for prospective applicants and signal stronger invitation activity through SkillSelect throughout the 2026-27 program year. Priority will continue to be given to occupations on the Core Skills Occupation List and those identified as critical by states and territories.
Key Highlights of the 2026-27 Migration Program
The overall skilled migration intake has been increased compared with the previous program year. The government has emphasised a demand-driven approach that balances permanent skilled migration with regional settlement objectives.
- Higher overall skilled stream allocation – More places available across permanent and provisional skilled visas.
- Increased Subclass 189 places – Greater opportunity for high-scoring candidates without state nomination.
- Expanded Subclass 190 state nomination quotas – States and territories receive larger allocation to nominate skilled migrants according to local labour needs.
- Strong focus on Subclass 491 – Regional visas continue to receive priority to support population growth outside major cities.
- Priority processing for critical occupations – Healthcare, teaching, engineering, construction and technology roles remain high priority.
"The 2026-27 Migration Program delivers a clear message: Australia needs more skilled workers, particularly in healthcare, education, infrastructure and technology, and is prepared to invite more candidates through both independent and state-nominated pathways."
Breakdown of Key Visa Categories
1. Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
The Subclass 189 remains the flagship points-tested permanent residency visa that does not require sponsorship from a state or employer. With an increased quota, invitation rounds are expected to become more frequent and competitive cut-offs may moderate slightly for priority occupations.
- Points-tested via SkillSelect
- No state or employer nomination required
- Priority for STEM, healthcare, teaching and engineering occupations
- Minimum 65 points to submit EOI (actual invitation scores usually much higher)
2. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
State and territory governments have received larger nomination allocations. This creates additional pathways for candidates who may not reach the highest Subclass 189 cut-offs but meet specific state occupation lists and commitment requirements.
- Requires nomination from an Australian state or territory
- Additional 5 points for nomination
- Commitment to live and work in the nominating state for a specified period
- Occupation lists vary by state and are updated regularly
3. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Subclass 491 continues to play a major role in directing skilled migrants to regional Australia. Higher quotas and continued pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 191) make this an attractive option for many applicants.
- Provisional visa valid for 5 years
- Additional 15 points for regional nomination or family sponsorship
- Pathway to permanent residency after meeting income and residence requirements
- Strong focus on regional labour shortages
Priority Occupations Expected to Benefit
While exact invitation numbers will depend on monthly SkillSelect rounds and state nomination programs, the following sectors are expected to receive priority under the 2026-27 settings:
- Healthcare & Aged Care – Registered Nurses, Aged Care Workers, GPs, Allied Health Professionals
- Education – Early Childhood Teachers, Secondary Teachers, Special Education Teachers
- Engineering & Construction – Civil, Electrical, Mechanical and Structural Engineers, Construction Project Managers
- Technology & Cyber Security – Software Engineers, Cyber Security Specialists, ICT Business Analysts
- Trades & Regional Occupations – Chefs, Automotive Trades, Construction Trades in regional areas
What This Means for Prospective Applicants
The increased quotas create a more favourable environment for well-prepared candidates. However, competition remains high. Success still depends on a strong points score, a valid skills assessment, superior English results and accurate documentation.
- Submit or update your EOI early – Higher quotas mean more invitation rounds, but top scores are still invited first.
- Consider state nomination – Subclass 190 and 491 offer additional points and alternative pathways.
- Maximise points – Superior English, partner skills, NAATI, Professional Year and Australian study can make a decisive difference.
- Monitor state occupation lists – Lists change frequently; align your occupation with current state priorities.
- Prepare complete documentation – Skills assessment, English test, employment evidence and police certificates must be ready before invitation.
Outlook for SkillSelect Invitation Rounds
With higher planning levels, the Department of Home Affairs is expected to conduct more regular invitation rounds throughout 2026-27. Priority occupation rounds are likely to continue alongside general skilled rounds. Candidates in healthcare, teaching, engineering and technology should remain particularly optimistic, while those in non-priority occupations will still need high points scores to remain competitive.
Overall, the 2026-27 Migration Program represents a positive step for skilled migrants seeking Australian permanent residency. Those who prepare early, optimise their points profile and remain flexible between independent and state-nominated pathways will be best positioned to receive an invitation.
