Skilled and Talent Visas

Australia has a strong veterinary industry, with veterinarians and veterinary professionals working across private clinics, animal hospitals, livestock industries, government services, research and regional communities. For overseas veterinary professionals considering a move to Australia, understanding how your occupation is classified is one of the most important first steps.

One common question is whether veterinary nursing is on Australia’s skilled migration list in 2026. The answer depends on your exact occupation and qualifications. Veterinary nurses and veterinarians are separate occupations for Australian migration purposes, with different qualification, registration and skills assessment requirements.

Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is a recognised skilled occupation with a number of potential Australian visa pathways. Veterinarians may be eligible for skilled migration, state or territory nomination, employer-sponsored visas and regional pathways, depending on their circumstances.

This guide explains the difference between veterinary nursing and veterinary practice, how the occupation of Veterinarian is assessed for migration, potential visa pathways, employer sponsorship and regional opportunities, and what overseas veterinary professionals need to know before applying.

Is Veterinary Nursing on Australia’s Skilled Migration List in 2026?

If you work as a veterinary nurse overseas, it is important not to assume that your occupation is treated the same way as Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) for Australian migration purposes.

A veterinarian is a qualified veterinary medical professional who diagnoses, treats and prevents animal diseases, ailments and injuries. Veterinarians may perform surgery, prescribe medication, conduct diagnostic testing and provide medical advice to animal owners.

Veterinary nurses, on the other hand, support veterinarians and veterinary practices with clinical and animal-care duties. Their responsibilities can include assisting during procedures, caring for animals, preparing equipment, administering treatments under veterinary direction and supporting the day-to-day operation of a veterinary practice.

These are different occupations, and having experience as a veterinary nurse does not automatically mean you can nominate Veterinarian (234711) for an Australian skilled visa.

If your goal is Australian migration, your occupation must accurately reflect your qualifications, employment history and actual duties.

For this reason, overseas veterinary professionals should establish their correct occupation classification before selecting a visa pathway.

What Is a Veterinarian in Australia?

The Australian occupation of Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) falls within Group 2347 Veterinarians.

Veterinarians diagnose, treat and prevent animal diseases, ailments and injuries. The occupation is classified at ANZSCO Skill Level 1, meaning it generally requires a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification.

Veterinarians can work with companion animals, livestock, horses and other animal groups. Some also specialise in areas such as veterinary pathology, parasitology, surgery or other areas of veterinary medicine.

Typical veterinary duties include:

• Examining animals and diagnosing medical conditions
• Treating animals medically and surgically
• Prescribing and administering medications
• Using diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and ultrasound
• Performing surgery and treating wounds
• Setting broken bones
• Providing obstetric services
• Vaccinating animals and testing for infectious diseases
• Participating in animal disease prevention programs
• Performing autopsies to determine causes of death
• Advising owners about animal health, nutrition, hygiene and care
• Working with pharmaceutical and biological product companies

Are Veterinarians on Australia’s Skilled Migration List in 2026?

Yes. Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is a recognised skilled occupation with multiple potential visa pathways.

However, being listed as an eligible occupation does not automatically mean that every veterinarian will qualify for an Australian visa.

Applicants still need to satisfy the requirements of their chosen visa, which can include:

• Age requirements
• English language requirements
• Qualifications
• Skills assessment
• Professional registration
• Work experience
• Points requirements
• State or territory nomination requirements
• Employer sponsorship requirements
• Health and character requirements

The specific requirements depend on the visa pathway.

Veterinarians should also remember that Australian skilled migration programs can change between program years. Occupation lists, state nomination criteria, invitation thresholds and visa requirements should therefore be checked before submitting an application.

Skills Assessment for Veterinarians

A positive skills assessment is generally required for veterinarians applying for the skilled visa pathways that require a skills assessment.

The relevant assessing authority for Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC).

To receive a positive skills assessment, applicants generally need to satisfy the AVBC’s requirements relating to veterinary qualifications, registration and English language ability.

Veterinary Qualifications

Applicants must have completed a veterinary qualification recognised by the AVBC.

This is an important consideration for overseas veterinarians because having a veterinary degree from another country does not automatically mean that the qualification will meet Australian requirements.

The AVBC assesses whether the applicant’s qualification meets the relevant standards.

Australian Veterinary Registration

Applicants also need current registration without imposed conditions, subject to the applicable AVBC requirements.

Veterinary registration is particularly important because veterinary medicine is a regulated profession in Australia.

The requirements for registration can differ depending on the applicant’s qualifications and circumstances, so overseas veterinarians should investigate the registration process early.

English Language Requirements

The AVBC also has English language requirements.

The English standards include the following minimum scores for the relevant tests:

IELTS

• Minimum 7.0 in each component

OET

• Minimum B or 350 in each component

PTE Academic

• Minimum 65 in each component

TOEFL iBT

• Minimum 24 for listening and reading
• Minimum 27 for writing
• Minimum 23 for speaking

Applicants should check the current AVBC requirements before sitting an English test, as requirements and accepted tests can change.

Visa Options for Veterinarians in Australia

Veterinarians may have several potential pathways to work and live in Australia.

Depending on their circumstances, potential options can include:

• Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa
• Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa
• Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional visa
• Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa
• Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa
• Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa

Not every veterinarian will qualify for every pathway.

Your eligibility will depend on factors such as your age, qualifications, registration, English ability, skills assessment, work experience, points score and whether you have an Australian employer willing to sponsor you.

Skilled Migration Pathways for Veterinarians

Skilled migration can be an attractive option for veterinarians who meet the relevant eligibility requirements and can obtain the required skills assessment.

Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa is a permanent visa that does not require sponsorship by an Australian employer or nomination by a state or territory.

Applicants submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect and must receive an invitation before applying.

For veterinarians who have a competitive points score, the 189 can provide significant flexibility because successful applicants are not tied to a particular sponsoring employer or nominating state.

However, invitation numbers are limited and competition can be strong.

Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa is another permanent residency pathway.

It requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.

State and territory governments have their own nomination criteria, which can include requirements relating to occupation, employment, residence, work experience and English language ability.

The 190 also provides an additional five points for state or territory nomination.

For a veterinarian whose points score is not competitive for a subclass 189 invitation, state nomination may provide another potential pathway.

Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa

The Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional visa is a provisional visa designed for eligible skilled workers who intend to live and work in a designated regional area.

Veterinarians may be able to pursue the 491 through state or territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship, depending on their circumstances.

The visa can provide a pathway towards permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa, provided the relevant requirements are met.

For veterinarians who are open to working outside Australia’s major metropolitan areas, regional migration can be an important option to consider.

Employer-Sponsored Visa Options for Veterinarians

Skilled migration is not the only option available to veterinarians.

Australian veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, livestock businesses and other organisations may employ overseas veterinarians through employer-sponsored visa pathways where the relevant requirements are met.

Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa

The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa allows an approved Australian employer to sponsor an eligible overseas worker for a temporary period.

For veterinarians who have an Australian job offer, employer sponsorship can be an attractive pathway.

The employer must meet sponsorship and nomination requirements, while the applicant must satisfy the relevant visa requirements.

The occupation must also be eligible under the applicable stream and occupation arrangements at the time of application.

Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa provides a pathway to permanent residency for eligible skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer.

Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, a veterinarian may be able to pursue employer-sponsored permanent residency directly or transition from a temporary employer-sponsored pathway.

The eligibility requirements vary between streams, so applicants should assess their circumstances before deciding which pathway to pursue.

Regional Opportunities for Veterinarians

Veterinary professionals can find opportunities across both metropolitan and regional Australia.

Regional areas can offer opportunities in:

• Rural veterinary practices
• Livestock and agricultural businesses
• Mixed animal practices
• Equine veterinary services
• Regional animal hospitals
• Government and biosecurity services
• Agricultural industries

For some veterinarians, being willing to work regionally may also expand their migration options.

State and territory governments have different nomination programs, and regional programs can provide pathways that may not be available to applicants focused exclusively on major cities.

If you’re open to living outside Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, it may be worth investigating regional employment and migration options as part of your overall strategy.

How to Become a Veterinarian in Australia as an Overseas Professional

If you’re an overseas veterinarian planning to work in Australia, it’s important to approach the process in the right order.

The general process may include:

1. Confirm your occupation

Establish whether your qualifications and duties align with Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) rather than another veterinary occupation.

2. Review your veterinary qualification

Determine whether your qualification is recognised by the AVBC and whether additional assessment or registration requirements apply.

3. Investigate Australian registration

Veterinary practice is regulated in Australia, so you need to understand the registration requirements that apply to your circumstances.

4. Meet the English requirements

Check the current AVBC English language requirements and ensure your test results meet the required standards.

5. Obtain your skills assessment

Where required for your chosen visa pathway, obtain a positive skills assessment from the AVBC.

6. Calculate your migration points

If you’re considering a points-tested pathway such as the 189, 190 or 491, calculate your points and assess how competitive your profile may be.

7. Explore state nomination and employment options

Consider both skilled migration and employer-sponsored pathways. Don’t limit your options to a single state or city if you’re willing to relocate.

8. Select your visa pathway

Once you’ve assessed your eligibility, you can determine which visa pathway best matches your circumstances and long-term plans.

Can Veterinarians Get Permanent Residency in Australia?

Yes. Eligible veterinarians may be able to obtain Australian permanent residency through several pathways.

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa provides a direct permanent residency pathway for eligible applicants who receive an invitation.

The Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa also provides permanent residency for applicants who receive state or territory nomination and meet the visa requirements.

For veterinarians who initially enter Australia on an employer-sponsored visa, the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme may provide a pathway to permanent residency where the applicant and employer satisfy the relevant requirements.

Regional veterinarians may also consider the Subclass 491, which can potentially lead to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 pathway after meeting the applicable requirements.

The best pathway depends on your individual circumstances.

Why Regional Veterinary Jobs Could Be Worth Considering

For overseas veterinarians, focusing exclusively on Australia’s largest cities could limit both employment and migration opportunities.

Regional Australia has a strong need for veterinary professionals, particularly in areas supporting agriculture, livestock and rural communities.

Being willing to relocate can potentially provide access to:

• More employment opportunities
• Regional veterinary practices
• Livestock and agricultural work
• State or territory nomination opportunities
• Regional visa pathways
• A potential pathway towards permanent residency

However, regional nomination criteria vary between states and territories and can change from one program year to another.

It’s therefore important to assess the current requirements rather than assuming that an occupation’s inclusion on a skilled occupation list guarantees nomination.

Common FAQs About Veterinarian Visas in Australia

1. Is Veterinary Nursing on the Australian skilled migration list?

Veterinary nursing and veterinary medicine are different occupations for Australian migration purposes. The occupation Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is recognised as a skilled occupation, but veterinary nurses should not assume they can nominate the Veterinarian occupation. Your occupation must accurately reflect your qualifications, employment history and duties. If you work as a veterinary nurse, a registered migration agent can assess which occupation and visa pathways may apply.

2. Are veterinarians in demand in Australia?

Veterinarians can find employment opportunities across Australia, including metropolitan veterinary clinics, regional practices, livestock industries, animal hospitals and government services. Regional areas can offer particularly valuable opportunities for professionals willing to work outside Australia’s major cities. Employment demand does not automatically guarantee visa eligibility, however, and applicants still need to meet the requirements of their chosen visa pathway.

3. Can an overseas veterinarian work in Australia?

Yes, but overseas veterinarians generally need to meet Australian qualification, registration and English language requirements before practising as a veterinarian. The Australasian Veterinary Boards Council is the relevant skills assessment authority for migration purposes, and applicants may also need registration with an Australian Veterinary Registration Board. The exact process depends on your qualification, country of education and individual circumstances.

4. What skills assessment does a veterinarian need for Australia?

The relevant skills assessment authority for Veterinarian (ANZSCO 234711) is the AVBC. Applicants generally need to demonstrate that they hold an appropriate veterinary qualification, satisfy the relevant registration requirements and meet AVBC English language standards. A positive skills assessment is required for relevant skilled visa pathways unless an exemption applies.

5. Can veterinarians get permanent residency in Australia?

Yes. Eligible veterinarians may be able to pursue permanent residency through pathways such as the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa or Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa. Employer-sponsored pathways may also lead to permanent residency, including the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme. Regional veterinarians may have additional options through the Subclass 491 and subsequent Subclass 191 pathway.

Get Expert Help With Your Australian Veterinarian Visa

Australia can offer excellent professional opportunities for qualified veterinarians, from metropolitan veterinary practices to regional clinics, livestock industries and specialist services.

However, successfully moving to Australia involves more than finding a job. You may need to navigate AVBC skills assessment, Australian veterinary registration, English language requirements, occupation classification, state nomination and visa eligibility.

It is also important to distinguish between veterinary nursing and veterinary medicine when assessing your migration options. Your visa pathway must be based on the occupation that accurately reflects your qualifications and experience.

The experienced team at AVIE can assess your circumstances, explain your potential visa options and help you understand the steps involved in pursuing a career and life in Australia.

If you’re an overseas veterinarian considering Australia, contact AVIE to explore your eligibility and find the pathway that best fits your migration goals.

If you have already checked your eligibility, passed the points test and are preparing your Expression of Interest (EOI), you may have reached one of the biggest decisions in the skilled migration process: should you pursue a subclass 189 vs 190 visa?

Both pathways can lead to Australian permanent residency, but they offer different advantages. The subclass 189 gives skilled migrants greater freedom to live and work anywhere in Australia without state or territory nomination. The subclass 190, meanwhile, requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government but provides additional points towards your score.

If you are considering the subclass 189 visa, it is important to understand how its independent structure affects your options. Likewise, if you are considering the subclass 190 visa, you need to understand the nomination requirements and your commitment to the nominating state or territory.

So, which pathway is right for you?

What is the subclass 189 visa?

The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is a points-tested permanent visa for skilled workers who want to live and work anywhere in Australia.

For the points-tested stream, you do not need sponsorship from an Australian employer, family member or state or territory government. Instead, your eligibility is assessed based on factors such as your age, English language ability, qualifications and skilled employment experience.

To be eligible for the points-tested stream, applicants generally need to be under 45 years of age, nominate an eligible occupation, obtain a suitable skills assessment and demonstrate at least Competent English. Health and character requirements also apply.

The first step is to submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect. You do not apply for the visa simply by submitting an EOI. You must first receive an invitation to apply.

Competition for the subclass 189 can be strong. Invitations are ranked according to points score, with tie-break arrangements applying where applicants have equal scores.

One of the biggest advantages of the 189 is flexibility. Once granted, the visa allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia.

For applicants who can achieve a competitive score and receive an invitation, this independence can make the 189 an attractive option.

What is the subclass 190 visa?

The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is also a points-tested permanent visa, but it requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government.

Unlike the 189, state or territory nomination is an important part of the pathway. Each jurisdiction has its own nomination requirements and may consider factors such as your occupation, employment, experience, English ability, location and connection to the state.

Applicants submit an EOI through SkillSelect and identify the state or territory they would like to nominate them. Depending on the jurisdiction, you may also need to submit a separate Registration of Interest or nomination application.

The trade-off is that you are expected to settle in the state or territory that nominated you. Before pursuing this pathway, you should therefore consider whether you are genuinely prepared to live and work there.

189 vs 190 visa: the key differences

Feature	Subclass 189	Subclass 190
Nomination requirement	No state or territory nomination required.	State or territory nomination required.
Points awarded	No nomination points.	5 additional points for nomination.
State residency commitment	No state-specific commitment.	Expected to live in the nominating state or territory.
Geographic flexibility	Can live and work anywhere in Australia.	Greater flexibility after grant, but applicants are expected to settle in the nominating jurisdiction.
Invitation frequency	Federal SkillSelect invitation rounds.	Timing depends on state or territory nomination programs.

How the extra 5 points from state nomination can change your outcome

For some applicants, the difference between a subclass 189 and 190 invitation can come down to just a few points.

For example, imagine you have 70 points based on your age, English, qualifications and skilled work experience.

You submit an EOI for the subclass 189. However, the invitation threshold for your occupation is higher than your current score. Your EOI therefore remains uninvited.

You may then consider state or territory nomination.

If a state nominates you for the subclass 190, you receive five additional points, taking your points score from 70 to 75 points.

That doesn’t guarantee an invitation or nomination. States and territories have their own criteria, allocations and selection processes, and invitation outcomes can vary by occupation and program year. However, the additional points may significantly improve your position.

This is why it is important to look beyond your raw points score and consider which skilled migration pathways you may realistically be competitive for.

Before submitting your EOI, use AVIE’s tool to check your points score and consider whether state nomination could strengthen your options.

189 vs 190 visa invitation rounds in 2026

The timing of invitations is another important difference between the two pathways.

For the subclass 189, invitations are issued through federal SkillSelect rounds. Applicants should keep their EOI accurate and up to date while waiting for an invitation.

The subclass 190 works differently. State and territory governments review EOIs and determine who they wish to nominate based on their individual requirements and available allocations. A nomination from a state or territory triggers the invitation process.

This means there is no single national invitation schedule for subclass 190. Each state and territory manages its own program, criteria and timing.

State and territory nomination allocations are also set for each program year, meaning availability can change from year to year.

This section should be reviewed and updated each program year, as invitation schedules, nomination allocations and state criteria can change.

What if you are invited to both?

If you are considering both pathways, you do not necessarily have to choose one at the beginning of your planning process.

You can submit an EOI for more than one skilled visa pathway where you meet the relevant requirements. SkillSelect allows EOIs for the subclass 189, 190 and 491 pathways.

If you receive an opportunity to proceed with both a 189 and 190, compare what each pathway means for your circumstances.

The 189 offers maximum geographic flexibility because you can live and work anywhere in Australia.

The 190 may be attractive if the additional five points help you secure an invitation and you are happy to settle in the state or territory that nominates you.

There is also the subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional visa, which can be another option for skilled applicants who do not have a competitive pathway through the 189 or 190. The 491 has its own eligibility requirements and regional conditions, so it should be assessed separately.

Ultimately, the strongest pathway is not necessarily the one with the highest number of points. It is the pathway that best combines your score, occupation, circumstances, state options and long-term plans.

Get advice on the right skilled visa pathway

Choosing between the 189 and 190 can be difficult when your eligibility depends on several moving parts.

Your points score is important, but so are your occupation, skills assessment, English results, work experience and the nomination criteria of the states or territories you may be eligible for.

State nomination requirements can also change between program years, and nomination allocations are limited.

Rather than submitting an EOI based on assumptions, consider speaking with a Registered Migration Agent who can assess your circumstances and explain which pathways may be available to you.

At AVIE, we can help you review your points score, understand your state nomination options and make a more informed decision about your skilled migration strategy.

The goal isn’t simply to choose between a 189 and 190. It’s to choose the pathway that gives you the strongest realistic opportunity to achieve your Australian migration goals.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between 189 and 190 visa?

The subclass 189 is a points-tested skilled visa that does not require state or territory nomination, while the subclass 190 requires nomination by an Australian state or territory. The 190 provides an additional five points for nomination. The 189 also offers greater geographic flexibility because it allows successful applicants to live and work anywhere in Australia. See the comparison table above for the key differences.

Is the 189 or 190 visa easier to get?

Neither visa is automatically easier to obtain. The subclass 189 is highly competitive because invitations are ranked by points and other selection factors. The 190 may provide an advantage because state nomination adds five points, but applicants must also meet the relevant state’s nomination requirements. Your occupation, points score and circumstances will determine which pathway is more realistic for you.

How long does a 189 vs 190 visa take to process?

Processing times change and should always be checked against the latest Department of Home Affairs information. The information provided as of 4 August 2026 indicates 50% of subclass 189 applications were processed within seven months and 90% within nine months. For subclass 190, the figures were 12 months and 17 months respectively. These are indicative rather than guaranteed processing times.

Can I apply for both the 189 and 190 visa?

You can submit an EOI for both the subclass 189 and subclass 190 if you meet the relevant requirements. SkillSelect supports EOIs for both pathways. If you receive an opportunity to proceed with either, compare the benefits and requirements carefully. Consider whether the geographic flexibility of the 189 or the additional points from 190 nomination better suits your circumstances.

What is the difference between the 189, 190 and 491 visas?

The 189 and 190 are permanent skilled visas, while the 491 is a provisional regional visa. The 189 does not require state or territory nomination and allows you to live and work anywhere in Australia. The 190 requires state or territory nomination and provides five additional points. The 491 is designed for skilled migrants who will live and work in designated regional areas and has its own pathway to permanent residence.

The ACT Government is introducing a new online portal for Canberra Matrix submissions and ACT nomination applications, with the launch currently scheduled for the week commencing 27 July 2026.

To prepare for the transition, the existing portal will close to new activity from 13 July 2026, with Canberra Matrix submissions accepted through the current system until 12 July 2026. Once the new portal goes live, all new submissions will need to be lodged through the updated platform.

The new portal is designed to improve the application experience with features including multi-factor authentication, live application status updates, improved mobile accessibility, and the ability to edit or withdraw Canberra Matrix submissions as circumstances change. It also introduces stronger integrity measures to help reduce non-genuine Expressions of Interest.

There are also several important program updates. From the 2026–27 financial year, the total ACT nomination fee will be $350 (excluding GST), comprising $25 for a Canberra Matrix submission and $325 for an ACT nomination application.

Canberra Matrix submissions will continue to be valid for six months, with the option to extend validity to 12 months by updating the submission before it expires. Applicants should note that any updates will be treated as a new submission for ranking purposes.

Current Canberra Matrix submissions will be automatically transferred to the new portal, meaning applicants will not need to submit a new Matrix. To access an existing submission, users will simply need to create a new account using the same email address used for their original application.

With these changes taking effect ahead of the first invitation round of the 2026–27 financial year, applicants should familiarise themselves with the new process and monitor updates from ACT Migration.

The Department of Home Affairs has released the results of the latest SkillSelect invitation round, held on 4 June 2026, providing valuable insights for skilled migrants hoping to secure Australian permanent residency. 

A total of 10,000 invitations were issued for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), matching the size of the previous invitation round. However, there were no invitations issued for the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) Family Stream visa, continuing a trend that many prospective migrants will be watching closely. 

If you’re planning to apply for skilled migration, these results offer important clues about current invitation trends, minimum points scores, and which occupations are receiving invitations. 

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) 

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa remains one of Australia’s most competitive migration pathways, offering permanent residency without requiring employer sponsorship or state nomination. 

The June invitation round again allocated 10,000 invitations, indicating the Australian Government’s continued focus on attracting skilled workers through independent migration. 

For applicants currently waiting in the SkillSelect pool, this consistency is encouraging, although invitation scores continue to vary significantly depending on occupation. 

No Invitations for the Subclass 491 Visa 

No invitations were issued for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa – Family Sponsored stream during this invitation round. 

While this may disappoint applicants hoping for a regional pathway, it’s important to remember that the majority of Subclass 491 visas are issued through state and territory nomination programs, which operate independently of the federal SkillSelect invitation rounds. 

Applicants should continue monitoring individual state nomination programs, as invitation activity varies throughout the year. 

Invitation Scores: What Did It Take? 

The most common invitation score during this round was 80 points. 

Several occupations received their first invitations at the following minimum score: 

Occupation	Minimum Invitation Score
Endocrinologist	80
Fitter and Turner	80
Footballer	80
Shipwright	80

While 80 points was the most common invitation score overall, many skilled trades continued to receive invitations with fewer points. 

Skilled Trades Continue to Perform Well 

One of the strongest themes from the June invitation round is the continued demand for many trade occupations. 

The following occupations were invited with 65 points: 

• Bricklayers 

• Carpenters 

• Electricians 

• Glaziers 

• Plasterers 

• Plumbers 

• Stonemasons 

However, several trade occupations remained more competitive, including: 

• Cabinetmakers 

• Electronic Equipment Trades Workers 

• Fitters 

• Welders 

These occupations generally required 80 points to receive an invitation. 

This demonstrates that while many trade occupations continue to benefit from Australia’s ongoing skills shortages, invitation thresholds still differ considerably between occupations. 

Health Occupations Continue to Lead 

Healthcare remains one of Australia’s strongest migration sectors. 

Nursing occupations once again represented a significant proportion of invitations, with many applicants receiving invitations on 75 points. 

Australia’s continued investment in healthcare and aged care means skilled health professionals remain well positioned under the skilled migration program. 

Limited Engineering Invitations 

Engineering professionals saw fewer opportunities during this round. 

Only a limited number of Engineering Technician-level occupations received invitations, while many professional engineering occupations saw little or no invitation activity. 

Applicants in the engineering sector should continue monitoring future invitation rounds and consider state nomination pathways where appropriate. 

No Invitations for Chefs, Motor Mechanics, Accounting or IT 

Some occupations once again missed out entirely during the June invitation round. 

No invitations were issued for: 

• Chefs 

• Motor Mechanics 

• Accounting occupations 

• Information Technology occupations 

Notably, accounting and IT occupations were also absent from the previous invitation round, suggesting these professions continue to experience higher levels of competition or lower invitation priorities under the current migration program. 

Applicants in these occupations may wish to explore alternative pathways such as employer sponsorship or state nomination, depending on their circumstances. 

What These Results Mean for Skilled Migrants 

The June 2026 SkillSelect invitation round highlights several important trends: 

• The Australian Government continues to issue large numbers of Subclass 189 invitations. 

• Healthcare remains one of the strongest sectors for skilled migration. 

• Many traditional trade occupations continue to perform well. 

• Some professional occupations, particularly accounting and IT, remain highly competitive. 

• Regional invitations through the federal SkillSelect system remain limited. 

Because invitation scores and occupation demand can change between rounds, prospective migrants should avoid relying solely on previous invitation results when planning their migration strategy. 

Preparing for the Next SkillSelect Invitation Round

The next SkillSelect invitation round is expected to take place in September 2026, giving skilled migrants an opportunity to review their position and strengthen their applications ahead of time.

If you are currently waiting in the SkillSelect pool, now is the time to assess your points score, update your Expression of Interest (EOI) if your circumstances have changed, and explore alternative pathways such as state nomination or employer sponsorship if your occupation remains highly competitive.

Staying prepared can help ensure you are ready if an invitation opportunity becomes available.

Note that most state-nominated programs are currently closed while awaiting a new allocation from Immigration.

Get Expert Advice on Your Skilled Migration Options 

SkillSelect invitation rounds provide valuable insights, but every migration journey is unique. Your eligibility depends on factors such as your occupation, points score, work experience, qualifications, English language ability, and the visa pathways available at the time you apply. 

Whether you’re waiting for an invitation, considering employer sponsorship, or exploring state nomination, obtaining professional migration advice can help you make informed decisions and maximise your chances of success. 

Contact AVIE today to discuss your skilled migration options and develop the right strategy for your Australian visa application.