Heenan & Browne Visa and Migration Services is pleased to bring you the latest update on the ACT Migration Program, as provided to us by the ACT Government on 28 November 2024.
ACT Migration Allocation for 2024-25
With the ongoing skills and labour shortages, the role of state and territory-nominated visa programs remains pivotal. For the 2024-25 financial year, the Department of Home Affairs has increased the planning levels for these programs. Overall, 33000 places have been allocated to the State and Territory nominated and Regional visa categories—an increase of 3,300 places from the previous year.
Specifically, the ACT has been allocated:
– Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): 1000 places
– Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491):800 places
– Total:1800 places
This allocation marks a 50% increase from last year, although it is still below what was requested by the ACT.
Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) Closure
Please note that the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) has been permanently closed by the Department of Home Affairs as of July 2024. Consequently, the ACT will no longer accept new applications for 188 visa nominations for the 2024-25 period. However, the ACT will continue to process nominations for the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888).
ACT Nomination Guidelines and ACT Critical Skills List
There have been no updates to the ACT Nomination Guidelines or the ACT Critical Skills List since April 2023. The ACT expects to conduct a review early next year and will keep us informed of any significant changes.
Invitation Rounds
The ACT aims to maintain regular invitation rounds, though the sizes may vary based on their operational needs. The last round was conducted on 26 November 2024, with the next scheduled before 14 February 2025. High-priority occupations will continue to be those in teaching, healthcare, and social assistance.
Processing Applications
The ACT Nomination team will uphold their commitment to process nomination applications within three weeks. They urge prospective applicants to ensure all required documents are included and that information on the SkillSelect EOI is accurate. Adherence to updated guidelines is crucial for the success of your applications.
One Nomination Place per Person Policy
We remind you that each person is eligible for only one nomination place. Once you are nominated for a 491 or 190 visa, you are not usually eligible to apply for another ACT nomination except in very limited circumstances. This policy helps ACT Government to ensure fairness and maximises the impact of the limited nomination places.
For ongoing updates and more details, visit the News page on our website.
Need Assistance?
If you have any questions or require assistance with your Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 visa nominated by ACT, book an appointment for expert visa help from one of our migration agents. Our team is here to provide you with personalised guidance every step of the way.