Australia Subclass 189 Update: Next Invitation Round Expected by 31 October 2026
Australia's Department of Home Affairs has indicated that the next Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) invitation round is expected to be held by 31 October 2026.
This is an expected timeframe, not confirmation that invitations will be issued specifically on 31 October. The previously circulated 15 October date should no longer be presented as the confirmed upcoming round date.
What is confirmed about the next round?
The update concerns the anticipated timing of subclass 189 invitations. It does not provide completed-round results.
| Detail | Current position |
|---|---|
| Expected timeframe | By 31 October 2026 |
| Exact invitation date | Not confirmed |
| Number of invitations | Not announced |
| Occupation-wise minimum points | Not published for the expected round |
Predicted invitation numbers or occupation cut-offs should not be treated as announced results.
What does this mean for applicants waiting in the EOI pool?
The revised timeframe does not itself confirm an invitation for any applicant or establish a new points threshold.
Home Affairs ranks eligible Expressions of Interest by points. Where scores are equal, the date and time an EOI reached that score can determine priority. Submitting an EOI does not guarantee an invitation.
For applicants planning around this round, the practical concern is whether their claimed points remain supported by their qualifications, English results, employment history and skills assessment. A scheduling update does not resolve an individual profile's eligibility or competitiveness. Our subclass 189 visa guide explains the pathway.
Are subclass 190 and state-nominated 491 invitations affected?
State and territory nomination programs operate separately from departmental invitation rounds.
The subclass 189 timeframe should not be interpreted as a common invitation date for subclass 190 applicants or state-nominated subclass 491 applicants. Each jurisdiction manages nominations according to its own program priorities.
Discuss your Australian skilled migration options with Peerless
PEERLESS IMMIGRATION SERVICES can assess your points position, occupation and Australian skilled migration options, including whether subclass 189, 190 or 491 may suit your circumstances. An assessment cannot guarantee selection.
Call +91-8595010514 or email info@peerlessimmigration.com.
Discuss My Australian Skilled Visa Options
Frequently asked questions
No. Expected by 31 October describes an anticipated timeframe, not a confirmed draw on that date.
No official results for the expected round have been published.
No. Invitations depend on selection parameters, occupation demand and the available eligible EOIs.
No. Subclass 190 and state-nominated subclass 491 selections are managed separately by state and territory governments.
