The ACT Skilled Migration Process is one of the most popular ways to live and work in Canberra, Australia. It helps skilled workers, business owners, and graduates get nominated by the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) for a visa.

In October 2025, the ACT Government made big changes to the migration program. A new ACT Migration Occupation List (2025–26) was released, replacing the old Critical Skills List. The number of eligible occupations was reduced from 152 to 105. Only these occupations are now eligible for future Canberra Matrix invitations.

What is ACT Skilled Migration ?

The ACT Skilled Migration allows the ACT Government to invite skilled workers who can help meet the territory’s job and economic needs.

The program covers two visa types:

• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): A permanent visa for skilled workers nominated by the ACT.
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): A temporary visa (valid for 5 years) that can lead to permanent residency later.

While the ACT Government decides who gets nominated, the Department of Home Affairs issues the actual visa.

New ACT Skilled Migration Occupation List 2025–26

The biggest update is the new migration occupation list. The number of eligible jobs has been cut from 152 to 105.

This change was made to:

• Focus on the ACT’s real skill shortages.
• Reduce competition in oversupplied job areas.
• Support local businesses that need skilled workers the most.

From now on, only people with occupations on this new list will be invited through the Canberra Matrix system.

What Happens to Older Applications

If you applied before the change, don’t worry — the September 2025 invitation round was not affected. Those invitations will still be processed under the old list.

But for new applications, only the new list applies. So always double-check if your occupation is still eligible.

September 2025 Invitation Round Results

On September 15, 2025, the ACT Government held an invitation round.

Here’s what happened:

• Canberra residents received most invitations.
  • Subclass 190: 167 invitations
  • Subclass 491: 225 invitations
• Small business owners received a few (9 for 190, 18 for 491).
• Overseas applicants received 12 invitations (for 190 visa).

New Priority: ACT now gives more importance to subclass 491 invitations than 190.

Updated Nomination Rules and Pathways

457/482 visa holders: Must work for at least 6 months with their sponsoring ACT employer before applying for nomination.

PhD applicants: Invitations will now be given during regular rounds, not every 7 days.

Business visas: Even though new business visa nominations are closed, ACT is still processing 888 (permanent) applications from older applicants.

New English Test Rules

From August 7, 2025, the Department of Home Affairs updated its list of accepted English tests. You can now use results from:

• Cambridge
• IELTS
• LanguageCert
• MET
• OET
• PTE
• TOEFL iBT

This gives applicants more options to prove their English skills.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for ACT Skilled Migration Nomination Process 2025

Getting a higher Canberra Matrix score can greatly improve your chances of receiving an ACT nomination. Follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you start, make sure your occupation is on the new 2025–26 ACT Migration Occupation List. Confirm that you meet all the criteria for your visa type (subclass 190 or 491) and ACT nomination requirements.

Step 2: Complete the Canberra Matrix
Register on the ACT Government portal and fill out your Canberra Matrix profile. Your profile will be ranked based on points, skills, and experience compared to other applicants.

Step 3: Get an Invitation
If your score is strong enough, the ACT Government will send you an invitation to apply for nomination. Invitations are issued during regular selection rounds.

Step 4: Submit Your Nomination Application
Once invited, you have 14 days to lodge your nomination application. Make sure to include all important documents, such as your skills assessment, employment proof, English test results, and identification.

Step 5: Wait for Assessment
After submission, the ACT Government will review your application. If everything meets the requirements, you’ll receive a nomination certificate. This certificate allows you to apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs.

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Key Documents Required for ACT Skilled Migration Nomination

Before applying for ACT Skilled Migration Nomination, make sure you have the following documents ready:

• Valid passport and identification
• Skills assessment letter
• English test results (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent)
• Employment contracts or payslips
• Proof of residence in Canberra (if applying onshore)
• Bank statements showing financial capacity
• Marriage certificate or dependent documents (if applicable)

Having all these documents prepared in advance will make your application smoother and reduce delays.

Processing Time for ACT Nomination

The processing time may vary depending on the number of applications, but typically:

• Canberra Matrix selection: Every 2–3 weeks
• Nomination assessment: 4 to 8 weeks after submission

Submitting a complete and accurate application can help speed up the process and improve your chances of a quick nomination.

Conclusion

The ACT Skilled Migration Nomination 2025–26 update has made the process more selective but also clearer. With only 105 occupations eligible, applicants must plan carefully and stay informed about the latest changes.

If you want to move to Canberra through ACT nomination, make sure you understand the new list, follow the rules, and time your application smartly.

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Amitava Deb

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