The ACT skilled migration program is a pathway for skilled workers living in Canberra, overseas applicants with relevant skills, and PhD graduates to obtain ACT nominations for the Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) and Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) (permanent).
The Australian Capital Territory manages the program, aiming to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to the ACT workforce. If you are looking forward to this visa pathway, you must be aware of the key changes made recently.
Overview of ACT Skilled Migration Program
The ACT skilled migration program allows the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government to nominate skilled migrants for Australian permanent or provisional visas based on economic needs.
It ranks applicants based on their Canberra matrix submissions, focusing on the applicant's occupation listed in the ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List.
What Is ACT Nomination?
ACT nomination is a migration program sponsored by the Australian Capital Territory, allowing skilled workers to live and work in Canberra, Australia.
The government nominates workers for permanent and provisional visas based on their Canberra matrix submission.
Before starting with the ACT nomination process, it is important to meet the eligibility criteria stated by the Department of Home Affairs and submit a valid expression of interest (EOI) via SkillSelect. This is the first step in the process. ACT nomination is only considered after you submit a Canberra Matrix and receive an invitation..
Visa Options Under ACT Migration
The ACT nomination allows the Australian Capital Territory to nominate applicants for two types of skilled migration visas:
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) (provisional)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) (permanent)
ACT also offers streamlined nominations for doctorate holders at an ACT university. These applicants may have access to a streamlined nomination pathway with reduced requirements compared to other applicants. Also, the occupation may not need to be on the ACT occupation list, provided it is on the relevant Department of Home Affairs skilled occupation list
Key ACT Migration Updates for 2026
Here are some key updates for 2026:
Updated Occupation List
The ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List was last updated on 10th October 2025. According to the updated list, the number of eligible occupations in the ACT nomination has been reduced to 105 from 152 ANZSCO unit groups.
Changes to Canberra Matrix System
There have been no major structural changes to the Canberra Matrix system. However, with the eligible occupation list, applicants can anticipate higher competition.
Increased Income Threshold Requirements
The ACT has increased the minimum taxable income requirements for self-employed applicants and their spouses. The updated threshold is the following:
- Subclass 491 nomination: $610 for at least 13 out of the 15 weeks
- Subclass 190 nomination: $1,175 for at least 26 out of the 30 weeks.
In addition, the minimum income required to claim ACT employment skill points has increased to $31 per hour (before casual loading). This requirement is applicable for the primary applicant and their spouse.
Removal of 482 Visa Fast-Track Pathway
Another change that has been made recently is that the 482 Visa Holder Pathway has been removed from the ACT nomination framework.
Updated Nomination Guidelines (February 2026)
There are primarily two major changes in the ACT nomination: changes in income thresholds and occupation lists.
These changes are applicable for Canberra Matrix submissions lodged after 1 February 2026
ACT Nomination Allocation for 2025–2026
Here is a detailed breakdown of ACT nomination allocation for 2025-2026:
Total Nomination Places
The total nomination places are the following:
- For Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa: 800 places
- For Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa: 800 places
- Total Approvals (March 13, 2026): 961
- Total Refusals (March 13, 2026): 140
How Allocation Impacts Invitations
The total allocation remaining is 639 nominations. The ACT has a fixed number of nomination places available monthly, which is based on pro rata against annual allocation. This figure impacts the cut-off for selection.
How ACT Invitation Rounds Work in 2026
As mentioned earlier, ACT has a fixed number of nomination places available each month.
Step-by-Step Process
Go to the official ACT government website and follow the steps mentioned below:
- Review the ACT nomination criteria for your selected pathway and confirm your eligibility to qualify for Matrix points.
- Enter your personal information.
- Select the ACT 491 nomination or the ACT 190 nomination according to your eligibility.
- Select 'Canberra resident' or 'overseas applicant'.
- Also select yes/no for doctorate (if eligible) for streamlined nominations.
- After filling in the important information, you will have to select one option in the drop-down menu for each matrix category. The supporting documents must prove that your matrix point claims are true.
- Refer to the document checklist to ensure you have included everything.
- Submit the application.
Selection Factors
The selection is based on the Canberra matrix. Here points can be claimed by the applicant against specific factors such as skilled employment, English proficiency, formal qualifications, length of ACT residence, close family ties, and others.
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Book a Consultation
If you are interested in getting more information about a visa, get in touch with Australian Migration Agents for a consultation.
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What These Changes Mean for Applicants
The changes in the ACT migration do impact the visa application process.
Key Impacts
The changes in the ACT nomination imply that applicants need a higher income threshold to meet the eligibility criteria. Moreover, with the reduction in occupations listed in the ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List, the competition will be more rigid.
Opportunities
On the brighter side, applicants who meet the eligibility criteria can access high-demand jobs in IT, healthcare, education, construction, and others mentioned in the ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It is important to avoid the following mistakes when applying for the ACT skilled migration program:
- Claiming the points that you can't prove is a strict no and is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
- The applicant's occupation not being closely related to the ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List may lead to an invalid application.
- Ignoring income thresholds is another common mistake. Income levels are critical in determining eligibility.
Tips to Improve Your Chances for ACT Nomination
The following tips will improve your chances of ACT nomination:
- Don't apply as soon as you qualify. Build a competitive score at first.
- Secure a relevant ACT job to improve your chances.
- Seek professional help to ensure that you are submitting the nomination correctly.
How Australian Migration Agents Can Help
Australian Migration Agents can make a real difference with the ACT nominations. Here is how they can help:
- They will help you identify whether ACT is the best pathway and if it is the perfect time to apply.
- They will help maximize your Canberra matrix by identifying where you are losing points and suggesting ways to increase them.
- ACT is strict about nomination guidelines. With the help of the professionals, you can avoid overclaiming points.
FAQs
What are the ACT migration updates for 2026?
There are two major ACT migration updates for 2026:
- The income thresholds have been increased for applicants.
- The ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List has been updated, bringing down the total number of eligible occupations.
Is ACT nomination harder in 2026?
Yes, with the increased income thresholds and decreased number of eligible occupations, ACT nomination may be more competitive in 2026..
What is the Canberra Matrix?
It is a points-based ranking system to select skilled migrants for nomination under Australia's skilled visa programs.
How many nomination places are available in 2026?
800 places each for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa and the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa.
Can 482 visa holders apply for ACT nomination?
The previous 482 visa holder pathway has been removed. Applicants must meet current ACT nomination criteria to be eligible.
How can I improve my chances of ACT nomination?
To improve your chances of getting ACT nomination, focus on maximizing your matrix score and aligning with ACT priorities. It is competitive, so small updates can make a significant difference.
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