Victoria’s 2026-27 Skilled Visa Nomination Program is opening soon, and it brings some of the biggest changes in recent years. If you’re planning to apply for Victorian nomination, this guide explains what’s different and how to get ready.

Who is this update for?

This update affects applicants who want Victorian nomination for: 

• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

To be considered, you need to submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) to Victoria.

New fees for ROIs and nominations

• From the 2026-27 program, applicants will need to pay a fee to submit an ROI. If you are later invited to apply for Victorian nomination, a separate nomination application fee will also apply. 
• This is a real shift, because in the past submitting an ROI carried no cost. Applicants should now think carefully about whether their profile is ready before they register.

No fixed pass mark

Unlike the SkillSelect points test, the VPT does not have a fixed pass mark. Nobody can say “X points guarantees an invitation.” 

Instead, invitations depend on how competitive your ROI is compared with others in the pool. A strong score in one round could be average in another, depending on who else has applied. 

Priority industries for 2026-27

Victoria has confirmed four priority industries: 

• Healthcare 
• Social assistance 
• Education 
• Construction 

Applicants in all eligible occupations can still submit an ROI. However, applicants in priority industries may have stronger opportunities, depending on their VPT ranking and the outcome of each invitation round.

Previous ROIs will not carry over

If you submitted an ROI in an earlier program year, you can’t assume it will count for 2026-27. You will need to submit a new ROI when the program opens. 

How to prepare now

Preparation matters more than ever. Before you submit, review: 

1. Your SkillSelect EOI. Make sure it’s accurate and up to date. 
2. Your occupation. Check it is eligible and consider whether it falls in a priority industry. 
3. Your English score. It is one of the ranking factors, so check whether a higher score is possible. 
4. Your documents. Have evidence of your work experience and qualifications ready. 
5. Your partner details. Partner skills count towards your ranking. 
6. Your Victorian employment. Victorian earnings are part of the points test. 
7. Your overall visa strategy. Consider whether 190 or 491 suits you best. 

The Bottom Line

Victoria’s 2026-27 program rewards applicants who are well prepared and competitive. With new fees, a new points test and no fixed pass mark, submitting a rushed or incomplete ROI is a bigger risk than before. 

If you’re unsure where you stand, speak with a registered migration professional before you submit.

Not sure where you stand?

Book a Free Discovery Call to discuss your circumstances, understand your potential visa pathways and explore your next steps.