189 Visa Quota Exhausted for 2025-26: Your Best Skilled Migration Options Right Now

But this doesn't mean your Australian migration plans are over. In fact, the 190 and 491 pathways remain active across most states, and understanding where the opportunities are right now could be the difference between waiting another year and getting your visa this programme year.

What Happened to the 189 Quota?

The Australian Government issued 189 invitations in two large quarterly rounds during 2025-26:

With a planning level of approximately 16,900 places, the quota is now effectively nil. A small "top-up" round remains theoretically possible but has not been confirmed by the Department of Home Affairs.

The 4-Tier Occupation Priority System

Points alone no longer determine your chances. The Department now uses a 4-tier occupation priority system that ranks occupations by national demand:

If your occupation falls in Tier 3 or Tier 4, securing a 189 invitation has become extremely difficult - even with 90+ points. This is where state nomination becomes your strongest strategy.

190 & 491: Where the Opportunities Are

While 189 is closed, the 190 (Skilled Nominated) and 491 (Skilled Work Regional) pathways are very much active. Total state and territory allocation for 2025-26 is 20,350 places - down from 33,000 in the prior planning level, but still offering genuine opportunities if you target the right state.

State-by-State Allocation Breakdown

Which States Are Still Accepting Applications? (March 2026)

Priority Sectors Across All States

Most states are converging on similar priority occupations. If your career falls into one of these sectors, check whether your occupation is on the skilled list to confirm your eligibility:

The 491 Regional Pathway: A Strategic Alternative

Don't overlook the Subclass 491 visa as a strategic pathway. While it's a provisional visa (5 years), it offers a clear route to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 after three years of living and working in a designated regional area.

What About the Points Test Reform?

There's been significant discussion about a potential points test overhaul, with proposed changes including higher weighting for English proficiency, more points for younger applicants, salary-linked scoring, and even an increase in the minimum pass mark from 65 to 70 points.

For now, the current points test remains unchanged, and the best strategy is to maximise your score under the existing framework while opportunities are still available. For a deeper look at what might change, read our analysis on the potential points test overhaul for 2026-27. If you're still deciding which skilled visa pathway is right for you, our guide comparing 189 vs 190 vs 491 visas can help you weigh up the options.

What You Should Do Right Now

1. If you're waiting for a 189 invitation: Pivot immediately. No further 189 rounds are expected this programme year. Explore 190 and 491 state nomination pathways as your primary strategy.

2. If your occupation is Tier 4 (ICT, accounting): Set realistic expectations - 189 invitations for these occupations now require 90-100+ points. State nomination or employer sponsorship is likely your best path forward.

3. If you're considering the ACT or NSW: Submit your EOI before the upcoming round dates. ACT's next Canberra Matrix round is the week of 9 March 2026. NSW runs monthly 190 rounds.

4. If you're in South Australia: Act with urgency - over 60% of 190 places have already been issued this programme year.

5. If you hold a 491 visa approaching 3 years: Review your eligibility for the Subclass 191 transition to permanent residency. Check that your income meets the current CPI-indexed threshold.

6. Keep your EOI updated: Additional English test scores, new work experience, and partner skills can all improve your competitive position. Every point counts.

State and territory nomination requirements and occupation lists are subject to change. Please confirm current availability with your registered migration agent before applying.

Fees mentioned in this article are current as of March 2026 and are subject to change. The next fee adjustment is expected on 1 July 2026.

How First Migration Can Help

With 189 places gone and state nomination allocations reduced, the competition for skilled migration is fiercer than ever. Our registered migration agents can assess your profile, identify the strongest state nomination pathway for your occupation and circumstances, and help you submit a competitive application.

Ready to take the next step? We invite you to submit a free visa assessment so we can understand your situation and provide tailored advice.