Migration Queensland has confirmed that the Skilled Migration Program 2025–26 will open for Registration of Interest (ROI) on 19 September 2025.
Key Updates for 2025–26:
- Interim allocation:250 places now, with the remainder expected by the end of September.
- New ROI required:All candidates must submit a new ROI for 2025–26 (only the most recent ROI will be considered). Save or print your ROI as MQ cannot provide copies later.
- Occupation lists:Revised onshore and offshore lists (MQ – Occupation Lists)
Pathway Changes
- New onshore pathwayfor the Building & Construction workforce.
- Offshore Energy Workers pathway
- 491 Small Business Owners program closingon 19 Sept 2025:
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EOI Updates
- No need to create a new EOI every year – EOIs up to 715 days oldwill be accepted.
- EOIs can list other states as well, not just Queensland.
Program Requirement Changes
- Onshore applicants:ongoing work requirement removed.
- Work hours reduced to 20 hours per week.
- Casual work accepted.
- Settlement funds no longer required for offshore applicants.
- Queensland work experience requirements updated.
Selection Factors Considered
- Skills & qualifications
- Work experience
- Salary (onshore only)
- English competency
- Age
- Partner skills (occupation & English)
- Location of employment (onshore only)
- New method of calculating annualised earnings (differs for employees vs self-employed).
MQ will run more frequent, smaller invitation rounds throughout the program year. Full details and the updated occupation lists will be published on the Migration Queensland website. from 19 September 2025.
