Subclass 189 Visa Update 2026: Invitations Will Now Be Issued Quarterly – What Applicants Need to Know
- Leading Edge
- 17 hours ago
- 5 min read
For years, the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa has been the "gold standard" for Australian migration. As a permanent residency visa that requires no state or employer sponsorship, it offers unparalleled freedom. However, the Department of Home Affairs has recently shifted its strategy.
In 2026, the 189 visa invitation rounds have officially moved to a quarterly schedule. This change represents a significant shift from the unpredictable intervals of previous years. For applicants, this means a more structured system—but it also means you must be more prepared than ever.
Key Updates: What Has Changed in 2026?
The move to quarterly rounds is part of a broader reform aimed at making the migration system more predictable and transparent. Here is the breakdown of the current landscape:
Frequency: Invitations are now issued approximately every three months. For the 2025–2026 program year, we expect the remaining rounds in Quarter 3 (January–March) and Quarter 4 (April–June).
A "Residual" Visa Model: In a strategic shift, 189 invitations are now primarily issued using "leftover" places after the Employer Nomination Scheme (186), State Nominated (190), and Regional (491) visas are processed.
A New 4-Tier Priority System: Your occupation is now grouped into tiers, which heavily influences your chances:
Tier 1 (Highest Value): Medical specialists, surgeons, and niche healthcare roles.
Tier 2 (High Priority): Nurses, teachers, and critical construction trades.
Tier 3 (Diverse Skills): Engineering and other professional services.
Tier 4 (Oversupplied): ICT and Accounting (often require much higher points).
What Does This Mean for Your Subclass 189 Visa Application?
With only four opportunities a year to receive an invitation, the margin for error has disappeared. Here is how you should adapt your strategy:
1. Keep Your EOI "Audit-Ready"
Since rounds are now scheduled, you cannot afford to have outdated information in your Expression of Interest (EOI). Ensure your English test results and Skills Assessments are valid for at least six months at all times. A "tie-break" rule applies: if two people have the same points, the one who submitted their EOI first gets the invite.
2. The 65-Point Minimum vs. Reality
While the minimum requirement remains 65 points, the reality of 2026 is highly competitive.
Priority sectors (Healthcare, Education, Construction) are seeing invites at 75–80 points.
Non-priority sectors (IT, Marketing, Finance) often require 95+ points.
3. Diversify Your Strategy
Because 189 places are now "residual," relying solely on this subclass is risky. At Leading Edge Migration, we strongly recommend that eligible applicants also explore Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 pathways, which often have more frequent state-level invitation rounds.
How Quarterly Invitation Rounds Affect Your Migration Strategy in 2026
The shift to a quarterly invitation model for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa has fundamentally changed the roadmap to Australian permanent residency. In 2026, waiting passively is no longer an option. Success now depends on high-impact points scoring and a strategic "multi-path" approach.
Here is how you can master the new quarterly landscape to secure your PR.
1. Higher Points Matter More Than Ever
With invitations now released only four times a year, the competition pool is larger and more concentrated. To stand out, your Expression of Interest (EOI) must be in the top tier of your occupation group.
Strategic Ways to Boost Your EOI Score:
Superior English is Mandatory: For non-trade roles, scoring 20 points (PTE 79+ or IELTS 8.0 across all bands) is often the difference between recieving and invitation or not.
Optimize Partner Points: If your partner is under 45, has competent English, and a valid skills assessment in a relevant occupation, you can claim up to 10 extra points.
Audit Your Skills Assessment: Ensure your assessment is not only valid but also reflects your highest possible skill level and recent experience. Even a minor update to your employment evidence can boost your chances.
The 2026 Reality: If your score is borderline (65–75 points) in a non-priority sector, a passive strategy will likely result in your EOI expiring. You must actively hunt for more points.
2. Know Your Occupation’s Priority Status
The Department of Home Affairs continues to use the 189 visa as a targeted tool for national shortages. While the visa is "independent," the 2026 Skills in Demand (SID) list dictates the invitation frequency.
Priority Sector | Example Occupations | Invitation Outlook |
Healthcare | Nurses, Midwives, Physiotherapists | Very High (Priority processing) |
Education | Early Childhood & Secondary Teachers | Very High |
Construction | Electricians, Carpenters, Plumbers | High (Lower points thresholds) |
STEM & Cyber | Cyber Security, Systems Analysts | High (Specialised roles only) |
What if your occupation isn't prioritized?
If you are in a saturated sector like Accounting or General HR, you cannot rely on the 189 visa alone. We recommend a Dual-Path Strategy:
Keep your 189 EOI active.
Simultaneously lodge for Subclass 190 (State Nominated) and Subclass 491 (Regional). This ensures you remain in the race even when 189 rounds are quiet.
3. Precision Timing: The EOI Update Window
In a quarterly system, the Date of Effect (the date you last updated your points) acts as a tie-breaker. If two applicants have the same points, the one who updated their profile first gets the invite.
Align your updates with the 2026 Cycle:
Update Window | Target Invitation Round |
July – September | Q1 Round |
October – December | Q2 Round |
January – March | Q3 Round |
April – June | Q4 Round |
Update your profile immediately if you gain:
A new year of work experience.
Better English test results.
A NAATI CCL certification (+5 points).
A change in marital status or partner skills.
189 vs. 190 vs. 491: Which is Right for You?
Feature | Subclass 189 | Subclass 190 | Subclass 491 |
Sponsorship | None | State Government | Regional State |
Points Bonus | +0 | +5 points | +15 points |
Flexibility | Live anywhere | Live in a nominating state | Live in a regional area |
PR Status | Direct PR | Direct PR | PR after 3 years (191) |
2026 Outlook | Highly Selective | Balanced | Best Success Rate |
How Leading Edge Migration Can Help
Navigating the 2026 quarterly invitation model requires more than just high points; it requires a deep understanding of occupation tiers and timing. Our team in Perth, led by Registered Migration Agent Navneet Kaur (MARN 1801703), specializes in:
Points Optimization: Identifying every possible point, from partner skills to specialist education.
Strategic EOI Management: Ensuring your profile is active and competitive before the next quarterly "drop."
Alternative Pathway Analysis: Assessing your eligibility for state or employer-sponsored visas to maximize your PR chances.
Expert Tip: Don't wait for the round to be announced. The Department of Home Affairs uses "real-time" labor market data to decide which occupations to invite. Having your EOI ready before the quarter begins is vital.
Are You Ready for the Next Round?
The next 189 invitation round is approaching. If you haven't updated your SkillSelect profile or are unsure where your occupation sits in the new 4-tier system, now is the time to act.
Would you like us to conduct a points assessment for your occupation to see if you meet the 2026 priority criteria? Contact Leading Edge Migration today.
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances
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