Subclass 189 Visa Update 2026: Invitations Will Now Be Issued Quarterly – What Applicants Need to Know 

The Australian Government has recently confirmed an important update to the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa invitation process: 
Invitations will now be issued quarterly which was on an ad-hoc basis earlier. 

This change affects skilled professionals both in Australia and overseas, especially those relying on points-based selection through SkillSelect. 

In this blog, we break down what the quarterly invitation rounds mean, how they impact your migration timeline, and how you can improve your chances of securing an invite. 

At Aussizz Group, we have helped 180,000+ applicants navigate skilled migration pathways successfully – and we’re here to guide you through this transition. 

Understanding the SC 189 Quarterly Invitation System 

The Subclass 189 visa is a points-tested permanent residency visa that does not require employer or state/territory nomination. 
This makes it a coveted pathway – but also one of the most competitive. 

What’s Changing? 

Previously: 

• Invitations were issued irregularly, depending on processing capacity and occupation demand. 

Now: 

• Invitations will be released once every quarter. 

Why the Change? 

To ensure: 

• Better allocation of migration places 

• Predictable program flow 

• Enhanced planning for critical skill shortages 

This shift encourages applicants to position strategically, not rely on chance or hope. 

How Quarterly Invitation Rounds Affect Your Migration Strategy? 

1. Higher Points Will Matter More 

With invitations now being released quarterly, competition naturally becomes more concentrated within each round. This means that only the strongest EOIs will be selected – those that demonstrate higher points, stronger qualifications, and clear alignment to priority occupations. 

If your current score is borderline, this update makes it essential to strengthen your EOI profile, rather than waiting passively for an invitation. 

How to Strategically Increase Your EOI Score?

a. Improve Your English Test Score 
Higher English proficiency not only increases points but also enhances your comparative ranking within your occupation group. 
For competitive outcomes, aim for: 

• PTE (Superior English) 

• IELTS 8.0 in each band 

b. Secure a Stronger Skills Assessment 
If your skills assessment outcome is limited or experience was deducted, consider: 

• Updating employment evidence 

• Re-structuring reference letters 

• Ensuring role alignment with ANZSCO duties 

c. Claim Partner Points if Eligible 
If your partner also has: 

• Competent English 

• A suitable occupation 

• A valid skills assessment 
  You may add 5–10 additional points, which can significantly shift your ranking in quarterly selection cycles. 

Bottom Line: 
If your EOI score is not competitive before the quarterly round, your chances of receiving an invitation reduce considerably. Now is the time to build scoring strength – not wait. 

2. Certain Occupations Will Be Prioritised 

Even though Subclass 189 is independent of employer or state sponsorship, the Department of Home Affairs still prioritises occupations that meet Australia’s national workforce demand. 

Under the current priority framework, the strongest focus remains on: 

If your occupation falls within these categories, you may benefit from: 

• Faster review 

• Priority invitation potential 

• Stronger EOI competitiveness 

However, applicants in non-critical or saturated occupations (e.g., accounting, HR, business analysts) may face slower EOI progression. 

What to Do If Your Occupation Is Not Prioritised? 

You should not rely on SC 189 alone. 
A dual-path strategy is recommended: 

• Lodge SC 190 State Nomination EOIs for states where your occupation is better demanded. 

• Submit SC 491 Regional Nomination applications for regions encouraging skilled settlement. 

This expanded strategy ensures: 

• You remain in the migration race 

• You do not lose time waiting for a single pathway 

• You build long-term residency security 

3. Timing Your EOI Updates Is Key 

Since invitations are now released four times a year, the timing of your EOI update matters more than ever as accurate and updated details are crucial for validity of invitation. When to Update 

The recommended update windows align directly with the quarterly invitation cycle: 

What Should Be Updated? 

• New English test results 

• Improved points score 

• Change of marital/partner points eligibility 

• New employment or additional work experience 

• Skills assessment renewals or upgrades 

• State nomination preferences (if dual-path strategy) 

Why This Matters?

SkillSelect prioritises Higher Points EOIs and who has lodged earlier in similar points category for similar occupation group. 

Keeping your profile updated ensures you stay competitive, relevant, and accurate during each quarterly evaluation. 

Subclass 189 vs 190 vs 491 – Which Is Right for You? 

→ Applicants aiming for PR quickly and confidently should consider a dual strategy: 
SC 189 (primary) + SC 190 or 491 (backup). 

Aussizz Group can help map this for your specific profile. 

Most Searched FAQs (Answered Through Content)

Q1. Does a high EOI score guarantee a SC 189 invitation? 

No. Quarterly rounds mean cut-offs may fluctuate, and priority occupations still dominate. Strong EOIs + correct occupation strategy matter more than points alone. 

Q2. Should offshore applicants still apply under SC 189? 

Yes – but manage expectations. Offshore invites are now more selective, particularly favoring: 

• Health & medical professionals 

• STEM-based technical roles 

• Certain trades with verified experience 

Q3. Can I update my EOI after submitting it? 

Yes – and you should to keep your EOI accurate . 

Essential Steps to Improve Your SC 189 Chances 

Why Choose Aussizz Group? 

With 180,000+ successful applicants, we bring: 

• MARA-registered guidance 

• Expertise across SC 189 / 190 / 491 strategy planning 

• Skills assessment support (ACS, VETASSESS, TRA, ANMAC, Engineers Australia) 

• Occupation-specific PR roadmapping 

If you are preparing to move or renew your visa, ensure you remain health insurance compliant through GetMyPolicy.online for OSHC/OVHC comparisons and coverage. 

Start Your PR Strategy with Confidence 

The quarterly invitation change means planning ahead is no longer optional – it’s essential. 
Your EOI must be strong, well-timed, and strategically positioned. 

Book a consultation with Aussizz Group today 
Let our migration experts design your personalised PR strategy. 

Aussizz Group 
Guiding 180,000+ migrants to their Australian Dream.