Investment NSW has confirmed that a Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) invitation round will take place in the first week of March 2026.
This is your signal to act. If you have an Expression of Interest (EOI) lodged in SkillSelect for NSW nomination, now is the time to ensure everything is up to date.
Key Deadline: COB Sunday, 1 March 2026
NSW has specifically asked applicants and migration professionals to update their EOIs in SkillSelect by close of business Sunday, 1 March 2026.
Invitations will be issued based on the most current information available at that time, so an outdated EOI could cost you an invitation.
What You Need to Know
Only NSW Skills List Occupations Are Eligible
Not every occupation qualifies. Only occupations on the NSW Skills List are eligible for an invitation in this round. Before updating your EOI, confirm your nominated occupation is on the current list.
Rounds Are Highly Competitive
NSW has emphasised that invitation rounds are highly competitive. With the state’s 2025-26 allocation of 2,100 places for Subclass 190, every point counts. Higher points scores and earlier dates of effect give you a stronger position.
What You Should Do Now
1. Update Your EOI in SkillSelect
Log into the SkillSelect system and ensure all information is current. Update your EOI with:
- Recent work experience
- New English test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
- Partner skills contributions
- NAATI accreditation or professional year completion
- Any new qualifications or certifications
2. Verify Your Skills Assessment
Ensure your skills assessment is valid and matches your nominated occupation. An expired or incorrect assessment will result in your EOI being overlooked.
3. Check the NSW Skills List
Confirm your occupation is on the NSW Skills List. If it’s not listed, you won’t be eligible for this round regardless of your points score.
4. Prepare Your Documents
If nominated by NSW, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the 190 visa. Start gathering:
- Educational certificates and transcripts
- Employment references and payslips
- English test results
- Police clearances
- Health examination arrangements
Consider Alternative Pathways
If your occupation isn’t on the NSW Skills List or your points score isn’t competitive enough, consider:
- Other states – Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and other states run their own nomination programs with different skills lists
- Subclass 491 – NSW’s regional nomination pathway adds 15 points and has a broader occupation list
- Subclass 189 – The Skilled Independent visa doesn’t require state nomination
- Employer sponsorship – 482 TSS visa or 186 ENS visa pathways
How WiseKangaroo Can Help
Navigating NSW’s competitive nomination process requires precision and strategy. At WiseKangaroo, we specialise in helping skilled professionals maximise their chances of receiving a state nomination.
Our services include:
- Points assessment & maximisation – identify the fastest ways to boost your score
- EOI preparation & strategic positioning – ensure your EOI is accurate and competitive
- Skills assessment coordination – guidance through the assessment process
- Alternative pathway planning – if NSW 190 isn’t the right fit, we’ll find the pathway that is
Don’t leave it to chance. Book a free eligibility assessment with our registered migration agents before the 1 March deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When exactly is the NSW 190 invitation round?
A: NSW has confirmed the round will take place in the first week of March 2026. An exact date has not been announced. Ensure your EOI is updated by COB Sunday, 1 March 2026.
Q: What points score do I need for NSW 190 nomination?
A: There is no published minimum—rounds are competitive and thresholds vary by occupation. Generally, higher points scores improve your chances significantly. The minimum to submit an EOI is 65 points (including the 5 points from state nomination).
Q: Is my occupation eligible?
A: Only occupations on the NSW Skills List are eligible. Check the list before the round.
Q: What happens if I miss this round?
A: NSW conducts multiple invitation rounds throughout the program year. Use the time to boost your points, update your EOI, or explore alternative visa pathways. We can help you develop a backup strategy.
Last updated: 25 February 2026. Information based on official communication from Investment NSW. Migration policies and invitation rounds are subject to change. Always verify with the NSW Government for the most current information.
This article is for general information only. For specific advice about your circumstances, consult a registered migration agent.
