New South Wales has announced its 2025-26 skilled migration program with key changes including an expanded occupation list and relaxed residency requirements. Here are the essential updates:

NSW Subclass 190 Visa Requirements

Occupation: Must be on the updated NSW 190 skilled occupation list

Residency (meet one of the following):
✅ Currently working in NSW in nominated occupation
✅ 6+ months continuous residency in NSW
✅ 6+ months residency overseas

Invitation Model: Passive selection - submit EOI selecting NSW

Key Success Factors: Competitive English scores + EOI points + work experience

NSW Subclass 491 Visa - 3 Pathways

Pathway 1: Regional Work Stream (Direct application available)

All occupations eligible (not restricted to list)

6+ months employment with same regional NSW employer

Work must relate to nominated occupation

Minimum annual salary: $76,515 (full/part-time/casual; 90% for some roles)

Pathway 2: Invitation Stream (Passive selection)

Occupation on NSW 491 list

3+ months residency in NSW OR overseas

OR currently working in NSW in nominated occupation (residency waived)

Pathway 3: Regional Graduate Stream (Direct application available)

Occupation on NSW 491 list

3+ months residency in NSW/overseas OR NSW work in occupation

Relevant qualification from regional NSW institution (graduated ≤2 years)

Key Policy Changes

Relaxed Residency: NSW employment now exempts 3-6 month residency period

Expanded Occupation List:

190/491: 2245 Land Economists/Valuers, 2347 Veterinarians

491 Only: 3424 Telecommunications Technicians, 3613 Veterinary Nurses

190 Removed: 1212 Crop Farmers (retained for 491)

Strategic Insights

Regional Graduates: 491 pathway opens with just 65 EOI points + listed occupation

Non-Listed Occupations: Pathway 1 provides alternative through regional work

190 Competition: Remains highly competitive - prioritize high points and English scores

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