Victoria State Nomination for Subclass 190: 2026 Program Status and Complete Guide
⚠ Important: Current Program Status
As of 10 August 2026, Victoria's skilled migration program for the 2025-26 program year is closed to new Registrations of Interest (ROIs). We're currently waiting for the official opening of the 2026-27 program year. Please monitor the official Live in Melbourne portal for real-time announcements.
If you're dreaming of making Victoria your permanent home, you're certainly not alone. Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities, and securing a subclass 190 visa nomination from the Victorian Government is a fantastic pathway to get there. It gives you an extra 5 points towards your overall SkillSelect score and the freedom to live and work anywhere in the state.
Because Victoria is incredibly popular among skilled migrants, they don't use a simple "first in, best dressed" application system. Instead, they utilise a highly competitive Registration of Interest (ROI) system. This means you need to put your hand up and be specifically invited by the state before you can formally apply. If you're weighing up your options across Australia, you might want to compare all states for nomination to see where you stand the best chance.
Current 2026 Program Status
Right now, Victoria's skilled migration program is taking a breather. The 2025-26 program officially closed to new ROIs back in April 2026, meaning no new invitations for the subclass 190 visa are being issued until the new financial year kicks off.
| Program Year | Status | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | Closed to new ROIs | Hold tight. You can't submit a new ROI right now. |
| 2026-27 | Pending Opening | Get your skills assessment and English test sorted. |
Understanding the ROI Process
Navigating the Victorian system can feel a bit daunting, but it essentially boils down to a two-step dance. You can't just apply directly to the state; you have to be invited.
Step 1: SkillSelect EOI
First things first, you need to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the federal government's SkillSelect portal. You must meet the baseline Department of Home Affairs requirements-meaning you need to be under 45, have at least Competent English, hold a valid skills assessment, and score at least 65 points.
Step 2: Submit an ROI
Once your EOI is active and the Victorian program is open, you head over to the Live in Melbourne portal to submit your Registration of Interest (ROI). This is where you tell Victoria, "Hey, I want to live here, and here's what I bring to the table." The state then handpicks the best candidates from this pool based on their economic needs.
Priority Sectors and Eligibility
It's important to clear up a common misconception: Victoria does not use formal, separated "streams" for the 190 visa like a "Study and Work" or "Graduate" stream. Instead, they look at the whole pool of ROIs and prioritise candidates who work in sectors facing critical workforce shortages.
⚑ What Victoria Cares About
Historically, Victoria heavily favours professionals working in Health, Social Services, and Early Childhood Education. If you are onshore (living in Victoria) and working in one of these critical sectors, your chances of being selected are significantly higher.
They also welcome offshore applicants, provided your skills align with their target sectors. However, if you are living in another Australian state, Victoria generally won't nominate you unless you relocate. They want people who are genuinely committed to calling Victoria home.
What to Do While You Wait
With the program currently paused, now is the perfect time to get your ducks in a row. Being prepared means you can hit the ground running the moment the 2026-27 program opens.
- Maximise your points: Consider re-sitting your English test to aim for Superior English, or see if you can claim partner points. Use our points calculator to find out exactly where you stand.
- Sort your documents: Make sure your skills assessment is valid and won't expire soon. Gather your employment contracts, payslips, and proof of residence.
- Keep an ear to the ground: Bookmark the official Live in Melbourne website and check it regularly for updates on the new program year.
Exploring Other Options
Victoria is fantastic, but it's tough competition. It pays to be strategic and look at the bigger picture. If your occupation isn't in a priority sector for Victoria, another state might be screaming out for your skills. Keep in mind that many states prefer you to be living there to apply, but some are flexible.
Ready to calculate your score?
Use our free calculator to see your exact points based on Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations.
Calculate My Points Score →Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Victoria 190 program currently open?
Currently, the 2025-26 quota is closed to new Registrations of Interest (ROIs). We are waiting for the 2026-27 program year to officially open.
Do I need an ROI for a Victoria 190 nomination?
Yes, Victoria operates a two-step process. First, you need an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, and then you must submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) via the Live in Melbourne portal.
Does Victoria have a 'Study and Work' or 'Graduate' stream for the 190 visa?
No. Victoria evaluates applicants based on their overall profile, priority sectors (like Health, Social Services, and Education), and whether they are onshore or offshore. There are no separate designated streams for graduates.
Can I apply for the Victoria 190 if I live in another Australian state?
Generally, Victoria prioritises applicants who are living and working in Victoria, or offshore applicants in specific target sectors. If you live interstate, you typically need to relocate to Victoria to be considered.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute migration or legal advice. All information is based on publicly available data from the Department of Home Affairs, the Live in Melbourne portal, and the Migration Regulations 1994. Please consult a MARA-registered migration agent for advice specific to your individual circumstances.