Queensland has announced its 2026–27 State Nominated Migration Program
Registrations of Interest (ROIs) opening on November 6, 2026. The updated programme offers nomination opportunities for skilled workers, construction professionals, Queensland graduates, offshore applicants and eligible regional small business owners.
Australia’s Queensland state has released its updated skilled migration programme for the 2026–27 year, providing new opportunities for eligible overseas professionals and people already living and working in the state.
The programme allows Queensland to nominate eligible candidates for two major skilled migration visa categories: the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).
However, applicants should pay close attention to the updated eligibility requirements. The new programme requires all candidates, including those who submitted an Expression of Interest or Registration of Interest in previous years, to submit a fresh ROI for 2026–27.
Another important change concerns applicants already living in Queensland. They must have lodged their 2025–26 tax return and received their Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Notice of Assessment before submitting their ROI.
The Queensland state nomination 2026–27 programme is expected to attract significant interest from skilled professionals seeking Australian permanent residence or regional migration opportunities.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the programme, its five nomination pathways, eligibility requirements, application process and important dates.
Queensland State Nomination 2026–27: Important Dates and Key Details
Queensland’s State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) for 2026–27 has been published, and the Registration of Interest process is scheduled to open on November 6, 2026.
Applicants should understand that publication of the programme does not mean that ROIs are already being accepted.
The following are the key details:
| Programme detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme year | 2026–27 |
| State | Queensland, Australia |
| ROI opening date | November 6, 2026 |
| Visa subclass 1 | Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) |
| Visa subclass 2 | Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) |
| Minimum points requirement | 65 points |
| English requirement | Competent English |
| Skills assessment | Valid assessment for an eligible occupation |
| New ROI requirement | Mandatory for all applicants |
| Onshore tax requirement | 2025–26 tax return and ATO Notice of Assessment |
The programme is competitive, and meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee an invitation to apply for state nomination.
Applicants should also remember that Queensland has its own selection process. Candidates are assessed according to their skills, employment circumstances and how closely their profiles match the state’s workforce priorities.
Which Visas Are Available Under Queensland State Nomination 2026–27 Programme?
Queensland can nominate eligible skilled migrants for two visa subclasses.
A. Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
The Subclass 190 visa is a state-nominated permanent residence visa.
Successful applicants receive permanent residence in Australia after their visa is granted. They are expected to commit to living and working in Queensland for at least two years after the visa grant.
State nomination provides an additional five points towards the applicant’s points test.
This pathway is suitable for skilled professionals whose occupations are eligible for Subclass 190 nomination and who meet the relevant state and federal requirements.
B. Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
The Subclass 491 visa is a provisional skilled visa designed for people who intend to live and work in designated regional areas of Australia.
Queensland can nominate eligible applicants for this pathway, including candidates seeking opportunities outside the state’s major metropolitan areas.
Successful applicants must commit to living and working in regional Queensland for at least three years after the visa is granted.
State nomination provides an additional 15 points towards the applicant’s points test.
The Subclass 491 visa can provide a pathway towards permanent residence through the applicable regional migration arrangements, subject to meeting the relevant requirements.
Important Difference Between Subclass 190 and 491
| Feature | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
|---|---|---|
| Visa type | Permanent residence | Provisional regional visa |
| State nomination points | 5 | 15 |
| Location commitment | Queensland | Regional Queensland |
| Minimum commitment | 2 years after grant | 3 years after grant |
| Nomination pathway | State nominated | State nominated regional |
Applicants should check which visa subclasses are available for their nominated occupation before submitting an ROI.
Not every occupation is eligible for both visa categories.
What Are the General Eligibility Requirements?
Candidates applying through the skilled migration pathways must satisfy the relevant requirements of both the Australian Department of Home Affairs and Migration Queensland.
The main federal eligibility requirements include:
- A minimum score of 65 points under the applicable skilled migration points test.
- At least Competent English.
- A valid skills assessment for an occupation eligible under the relevant Queensland occupation list.
- Meeting the applicable visa subclass requirements.
- Providing accurate and verifiable information in the Expression of Interest and Registration of Interest.
However, these are only the general requirements.
Each Queensland nomination pathway has additional conditions concerning employment, residence, qualifications and work experience.
For example, an applicant living and working in Queensland may have to demonstrate a specific period of local employment, while an offshore applicant must satisfy the relevant overseas skilled work experience requirements.
Applicants should also understand that a minimum score of 65 points does not guarantee selection.
The Queensland state nomination 2026–27 selection process considers more than the points score entered in SkillSelect.
Five Nomination Pathways Under the Queensland State Nomination 2026–27
The 2026–27 programme includes five main pathways designed for different categories of skilled migrants and business owners.
1. Skilled Workers Living in Queensland
This pathway is intended for skilled professionals who are already living and working in Queensland.
Applicants must have employment with a Queensland-based employer and meet the relevant residence and work experience requirements.
The requirements differ according to the visa subclass.
For Subclass 190:
- Applicants must have been living and working in Queensland for at least 9 of the previous 12 months immediately before submitting their ROI.
- They must be employed by a Queensland-based employer.
- Their employment must meet the occupation and work experience requirements.
For Subclass 491:
- Applicants must have been living and working in regional Queensland for at least 6 of the previous 9 months immediately before submitting their ROI.
- They must meet the relevant employment and occupation requirements.
For both pathways, eligible employment must generally:
- Have been gained after completing the relevant qualification.
- Involve at least 20 paid hours per week.
- Be in the nominated occupation or a closely related occupation.
- Meet the relevant Queensland employer and location requirements.
Casual employment can be accepted, and multiple eligible jobs may be combined to satisfy the work experience requirement.
However, the employment requirements must continue to be satisfied at the ROI, invitation and nomination stages.
Special restriction: Chefs and cooks working in takeaway or fast-food businesses are not eligible under the onshore pathway.
2. Skilled Workers Living Offshore
This pathway is designed for skilled professionals currently living outside Australia who want to obtain Queensland state nomination.
Unlike the general onshore pathway, offshore applicants do not need to be currently employed when submitting their ROI.
However, they must demonstrate at least one year of relevant skilled employment within the previous three years at the time of submitting their ROI.
The work experience must meet the applicable conditions, including:
- Employment gained after completing the relevant qualification.
- At least 20 hours of paid work per week.
- Work in the nominated occupation or a closely related occupation.
- Compliance with the requirements of the relevant Queensland offshore occupation list.
Applicants must also meet the general points, English and skills assessment requirements.
The nominated occupation must appear on Queensland’s offshore skilled occupation list and be eligible for the visa subclass selected.
3. Building and Construction Workers in Queensland
Queensland has a dedicated nomination pathway for eligible professionals working in the building and construction sector.
The pathway is intended to support the state’s construction workforce and address demand for relevant skilled occupations.
Eligible applicants must meet the specific requirements for construction-related employment and the relevant nomination category.
Applicants should carefully check the occupation list and documentation requirements because not every construction-related job automatically qualifies.
The construction pathway also has its own employment conditions, so candidates should not assume that meeting the standard onshore requirements alone is sufficient.
4. Queensland University Graduates
International students who have completed eligible qualifications at Queensland universities may be able to apply through the graduate pathway.
This option is intended to retain qualified graduates who have studied in the state and can contribute to Queensland’s workforce.
An important feature of the 2026–27 programme is that graduates may qualify for the relevant work requirement through employment in any Skill Level 1 occupation, subject to the pathway’s other eligibility conditions.
Graduates should still check their qualification, occupation, employment and visa subclass requirements before submitting an ROI.
Completing a degree at a Queensland university does not automatically guarantee state nomination.
5. Small Business Owners in Regional Queensland
Queensland also provides a nomination pathway for eligible small business owners operating in regional areas.
This pathway is designed for applicants who have established and operated qualifying businesses in regional Queensland.
It is available for the Subclass 491 visa and has specific business ownership, location, turnover and operational requirements.
The programme includes restrictions on eligible business establishment dates and the type of business activity.
Applicants should carefully review the current rules before making an investment or purchasing a business for migration purposes.
A business purchase or ownership arrangement does not automatically qualify an applicant for nomination.
Important New ROI Rules for 2026–27
One of the most important requirements of the new programme is the mandatory submission of a fresh Registration of Interest.
This applies to all applicants, including those who previously submitted an ROI but were not selected.
Previous ROIs Will Not Carry Forward
Applicants cannot rely on an ROI submitted during an earlier programme year.
Everyone must submit a new ROI for 2026–27 under the updated requirements.
This is particularly important for candidates who have been waiting for an invitation from a previous programme cycle.
One ROI Can Cover Only One Visa Subclass
Applicants must select either Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 when submitting their ROI.
They cannot use a single ROI to apply for both visa categories.
Candidates should carefully consider their occupation eligibility, location and long-term migration plans before making this selection.
Only One Active ROI Is Allowed
Applicants can hold only one valid ROI at a time.
If multiple ROIs are submitted, Queensland will consider only the most recent submission.
Submitted ROIs Cannot Be Updated
Once an ROI has been submitted, applicants cannot simply edit the information.
If their circumstances change or they need to correct information, they may have to submit a new ROI.
This makes it particularly important to verify employment details, occupation codes, visa subclass and supporting information before submission.
New ATO Tax Return Requirement for Onshore Applicants
Another important requirement concerns applicants who are already living in Queensland.
Before submitting their ROI, onshore applicants must have:
- Lodged their 2025–26 income tax return.
- Received their Australian Taxation Office Notice of Assessment (NOA).
The Notice of Assessment is an official document issued by the ATO after processing a tax return.
It confirms the outcome of the tax assessment and is an important part of the evidence required under the new programme.
Simply preparing a tax return or lodging it without receiving the NOA does not satisfy the complete requirement.
Therefore, applicants should not wait until the last moment to organise their tax documents.
Those who have not yet received their Notice of Assessment should check their ATO account and address any outstanding tax return requirements before submitting their ROI.
This is particularly important because the ROI process opens on November 6, 2026.
How Does Queensland Select Candidates for Nomination?
Meeting the eligibility requirements does not automatically mean that an applicant will receive an invitation.
Queensland operates a competitive selection process and considers candidates according to its economic and workforce priorities.
The state does not select applicants solely on the basis of their points score in SkillSelect.
Instead, Migration Queensland may consider several factors, including:
- Skills and qualifications.
- Relevant employment experience.
- Salary and employment conditions.
- Ability to secure and maintain employment.
- Location of employment within Queensland.
- Age.
- English-language proficiency.
- Partner’s skills and English proficiency.
- Current workforce demand and skills shortages.
Candidates working in regional, rural and remote areas may also be considered in light of the state’s specific workforce needs.
This means that two applicants with the same occupation and points score may have different outcomes.
A candidate with stronger employment experience, relevant qualifications or a profile aligned with current workforce demand may be more competitive.
Applicants should therefore focus on presenting accurate and well-supported information rather than relying only on a high points score.
How to Apply for Queensland State Nomination 2026–27
The application process involves several stages.
Applicants should complete each step carefully to avoid mistakes that could affect their eligibility.
Step 1: Check Your Occupation
First, check whether your nominated occupation appears on the relevant Queensland skilled occupation list.
Queensland maintains separate occupation lists for onshore and offshore applicants.
You should also verify whether your occupation is available for Subclass 190, Subclass 491 or both.
Step 2: Obtain a Valid Skills Assessment
Applicants must have a valid skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their nominated occupation.
The assessment must meet the requirements applicable to the selected visa pathway.
Step 3: Submit or Update Your Expression of Interest
Candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system.
The EOI should contain accurate details about:
- Occupation and ANZSCO code.
- Qualifications.
- Employment history.
- English-language results.
- Points claimed.
- Preferred visa subclass.
Applicants already holding a valid EOI generally do not need to submit a new one simply because a new programme year has started, provided the EOI remains valid and meets Queensland’s requirements.
Step 4: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Before submitting an ROI, applicants should organise the required evidence.
Depending on their pathway, this may include:
- Passport details.
- Skills assessment.
- English-language test results.
- Employment references.
- Payslips and other employment evidence.
- Qualification documents.
- Residence evidence.
- ATO Notice of Assessment for onshore applicants.
- Business ownership and financial records for eligible small business applicants.
The exact documents depend on the selected pathway.
Step 5: Submit a New ROI
Once the programme opens on November 6, 2026, eligible applicants can submit their Registration of Interest through Migration Queensland.
The ROI requires important information, including the SkillSelect EOI number, passport number, nominated occupation, ANZSCO code, selected visa subclass and confirmation of relevant work experience.
Applicants should ensure that the information matches their EOI and supporting documents.
Step 6: Wait for an Invitation
Migration Queensland reviews the submitted profiles and selects candidates according to its programme priorities.
Only candidates selected for nomination will receive an invitation to apply.
Step 7: Submit the Nomination Application Within 14 Days
Candidates who receive an invitation must submit their complete nomination application and supporting evidence within 14 calendar days.
Missing the deadline or failing to provide the required documentation may affect the application.
Step 8: Apply for the Visa
If Queensland approves the nomination, the applicant can proceed with the relevant visa application through the Department of Home Affairs.
However, state nomination does not guarantee visa approval.
The final visa decision is made by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
9. Queensland State Nomination Fees for 2026–27
Applicants should also budget for the applicable state nomination processing fee.
The fees stated in the programme guide are:
| Applicant category | Nomination fee |
|---|---|
| Offshore applicants | AUD $573 |
| Onshore applicants | AUD $630.30 |
These are Queensland nomination fees and should not be confused with the separate visa application charges payable to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Applicants should verify the current payment requirements when preparing their nomination application.
10. What Should Applicants Do Before November 6?
With ROIs opening on November 6, eligible candidates should use the remaining preparation time carefully.
A few important checks can help avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Check the correct occupation list: Make sure your occupation is included in the relevant onshore or offshore list.
Confirm your visa subclass: Check whether your occupation is eligible for Subclass 190, Subclass 491 or both.
Verify your points: Ensure that all points claimed in your SkillSelect EOI are accurate and supported by evidence.
Check your English results: Confirm that your English-language evidence meets the applicable requirements.
Review your employment history: Ensure that your work experience satisfies the relevant post-qualification, occupation and paid-hours conditions.
Arrange your ATO Notice of Assessment: Onshore applicants must have their 2025–26 tax return lodged and their NOA received before submitting an ROI.
Prepare supporting documents: Keep employment references, payslips, qualifications, skills assessments and other relevant evidence ready.
Avoid multiple ROIs: Only one active ROI is permitted, and only the most recent submission will be considered.
Careful preparation is particularly important because the ROI cannot simply be edited after submission.
11. Does Meeting the Requirements Guarantee Queensland Nomination?
No. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee an invitation or nomination.
The programme is competitive, and Queensland has the discretion to select candidates whose profiles best match its current workforce and economic priorities.
Even applicants with 65 points or more may not receive an invitation.
Similarly, receiving a Queensland nomination does not automatically mean that the applicant’s visa will be approved.
The Department of Home Affairs separately assesses the visa application and determines whether all relevant immigration requirements have been satisfied.
Candidates should therefore treat state nomination and visa approval as two separate stages of the migration process.
Conclusion On Queensland State Nomination 2026–27
Queensland’s 2026–27 State Nominated Migration Program provides opportunities for eligible skilled workers, construction professionals, university graduates, offshore applicants and regional business owners.
With ROIs opening on November 6, 2026, applicants should carefully review the updated requirements and ensure that their occupation, employment history, qualifications and supporting documents meet the relevant criteria.
The fresh ROI requirement and the new ATO Notice of Assessment condition are particularly important for candidates who previously applied or are already living in Queensland.
For anyone considering the Queensland state nomination 2026–27 programme, preparation and accuracy will be essential.
Applicants should not rely solely on the minimum points requirement. Queensland uses a competitive selection process based on its workforce priorities, and an ROI does not guarantee an invitation.
Checking the official occupation lists, preparing the required evidence and submitting an accurate application will be important steps for candidates hoping to secure state nomination.
FAQs : Queensland State Nomination 2026–27
1. When will Queensland’s 2026–27 state nomination ROI open?
Registrations of Interest are scheduled to open on November 6, 2026.
2. Which visas are available under the Queensland programme?
Queensland can nominate eligible applicants for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).
3. What is the minimum points requirement?
Applicants generally need at least 65 points under the Australian skilled migration points test, along with the other applicable eligibility requirements.
4. Do previous ROIs remain valid for 2026–27?
No. All applicants must submit a fresh ROI for the 2026–27 programme, including those who submitted an ROI during an earlier programme year.
5. Can applicants submit an ROI for both Subclass 190 and 491?
No. Each ROI can cover only one visa subclass. Applicants must select the relevant visa category when submitting their ROI.
6. What is the new ATO requirement for onshore applicants?
Onshore applicants must have lodged their 2025–26 tax return and received their ATO Notice of Assessment before submitting their ROI.
7. How much work experience is required for offshore applicants?
Offshore applicants must generally demonstrate at least one year of relevant skilled employment within the previous three years at the time of submitting their ROI, subject to the pathway requirements.
8. How long do invited candidates have to submit their nomination application?
Invited candidates have 14 calendar days to submit their complete nomination application and supporting evidence.
9. Does 65 points guarantee an invitation?
No. Queensland uses a competitive selection process and considers factors beyond the points score, including qualifications, employment, salary, location and workforce demand.
10. Does Queensland nomination guarantee an Australian visa?
No. Queensland nomination is a separate stage. The Department of Home Affairs makes the final decision on the visa application.
Source : RACC
Read About : Australia Biometric Requirements India: New Fingerprint And Facial Image Rules From October 26
