The Australian Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that the next Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa invitation round is scheduled for today, Thursday, 15 October 2026, bringing an important update for skilled migrants seeking Australian permanent residency.
This is a nationwide invitation round, not limited to Queensland or any particular Australian state or territory.
For skilled workers who have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, today’s scheduled round may provide an opportunity to move forward with their Australian permanent residency journey.
However, receiving an invitation is not guaranteed, even if an applicant meets the minimum points requirement.
What Is Happening in Australia’s Subclass 189 Invitation Round Today?
The Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa is a points-tested permanent residency pathway for eligible skilled workers who do not require employer sponsorship or state or territory nomination.
The Department of Home Affairs periodically conducts invitation rounds through SkillSelect, selecting eligible applicants based on their points ranking, nominated occupation and applicable migration program priorities.
The 15 October 2026 invitation round applies nationally, meaning eligible candidates are not restricted to Queensland or another particular state.
As of publication, the number of invitations issued, occupations selected and minimum points scores for this round have not been officially published.
Who Can Receive a Subclass 189 Visa Invitation?
To be considered for a Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa invitation, applicants generally need to:
- Have a valid Expression of Interest submitted through SkillSelect.
- Nominate an eligible skilled occupation.
- Hold a suitable skills assessment for their nominated occupation.
- Meet the applicable English language requirements.
- Meet the minimum points threshold of 65 points.
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of invitation.
Important: Meeting these eligibility requirements does not automatically result in an invitation.
Candidates are ranked competitively, and the points score needed to receive an invitation can vary depending on their occupation and the particular invitation round.
How Are Subclass 189 Invitations Selected?
The Department of Home Affairs generally ranks eligible EOIs according to points scores, with higher-scoring candidates receiving priority.
Where applicants have the same points score, their date of effect may determine their ranking.
Selection may also be affected by occupation ceilings, invitation arrangements and Australia’s skilled migration program priorities.
This means applicants with 65 points, or even substantially higher scores, are not guaranteed an invitation.
Already Submitted an EOI? What Should You Check?
If you are waiting for a Subclass 189 invitation, it is important to ensure your SkillSelect EOI accurately reflects your circumstances.
Review the following:
- Points Score: Ensure your claimed points for age, qualifications, skilled employment and English language proficiency are accurate.
- Skills Assessment: Check that your assessment is suitable for your nominated occupation and satisfies the relevant requirements.
- English Language Results: Confirm your test results meet the applicable requirements.
- Employment History: Ensure claimed skilled work experience can be supported by appropriate evidence.
- Personal Circumstances: Update relevant changes that may affect your eligibility or points score.
Incorrect or unsupported information can create complications when applying for a visa following an invitation.
Received a Subclass 189 Invitation? What Happens Next?
If you receive an invitation through SkillSelect, you generally have 60 days to submit your visa application.
During this period, you must provide evidence supporting your eligibility and the claims made in your EOI.
An invitation is an important milestone, but it does not guarantee visa approval.
Careful preparation is essential to avoid errors, missing documentation or inconsistencies that could affect your application.
What If You Do Not Receive an Invitation Today?
If you are not selected in the 15 October 2026 invitation round, this does not necessarily mean your Australian permanent residency journey has ended.
Your EOI may remain active for consideration in future invitation rounds, provided it remains valid and you continue to meet the applicable requirements.
You may also be eligible for other skilled migration pathways, including:
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): A permanent visa requiring state or territory nomination.
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): A regional visa pathway for eligible skilled workers.
- Employer-Sponsored Visas: Potential pathways for skilled workers with an eligible Australian employer willing to sponsor them.
Each option has its own eligibility criteria, making professional advice valuable when determining the most appropriate pathway.
How NB Migration Law Can Help
Australia’s skilled migration system can be competitive and complex. An accurate Expression of Interest and a well-prepared visa application can make an important difference.
With over 28 years of experience in Australian migration law, NB Migration Law assists skilled workers across Australia with:
- Skilled visa eligibility and points assessments.
- SkillSelect EOI preparation and reviews.
- Subclass 189, 190 and 491 visa applications.
- Employer-sponsored visa pathways.
- Visa refusals and complex migration matters.
Whether you are waiting for an invitation, have already received one or want to explore alternative permanent residency options, our migration lawyers can help you understand your next steps.
Waiting for Your Subclass 189 Invitation?
Do not leave your Australian permanent residency plans to chance.
Ensure your EOI is accurate, understand your visa options and seek experienced legal guidance before making important migration decisions.
Book your FREE 20-minute consultation with NB Migration Law today!