BIG NEWS for anyone hoping to live and work in Queensland as the 2025/2026 updates for QLD Migration Nomination have been released. If you’re a skilled worker, international student or already working in construction, these changes could make it much easier to secure your pathway to residency in Australia.
At Pathway to Aus, we know how confusing migration rules can sometimes feel. That’s why we’ve broken down the new requirements as plain and simple as possible so you can see what’s changed and whether you may be eligible.
New QLD Occupation List
Queensland has released a new migration occupation list that highlights which jobs are most in demand this year. While the full list is still being updated, one thing is crystal clear: the state is prioritising building and construction jobs!
More Building and Construction Courses Here.
But that’s not surprising. With ongoing infrastructure projects, housing shortages, and rapid growth across Queensland, the demand for skilled tradies and construction professionals is higher than ever. So if you’re in this field, the timing couldn’t be better, right?
A New Onshore Pathway for Construction Workers
For the first time, Queensland has introduced a dedicated onshore pathway for people in building and construction.
This is a total game-changer if you’re already in Queensland, working in trades, engineering, or site management. It provides a much clearer and more direct route to securing a skilled visa nomination and it gives you a higher chance to fast-track your journey toward permanent residency in Australia.
Work Experience You’ll Need
The new program puts a strong focus on recent onshore work experience. Here’s what you’ll need depending on the visa:
- Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): At least 9 months of onshore experience in your nominated occupation, working at least 20 hours per week.
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): At least 6 months of onshore experience, also at 20 hours per week or more.
This requirement makes sense as it shows Queensland that you’ve already settled into the local workforce and can contribute to the state long-term.
Casual Work Now Counts
Here’s some really good news: casual work will now be accepted as part of your required experience!
In the past, many international students and temporary workers worried that their casual jobs wouldn’t count. Now, as long as your hours meet the requirement and your role is in your nominated occupation, those shifts you’ve been putting in will help you qualify.
Self-Employed? You May Be Eligible Too!
Another exciting update is that self-employed workers are now considered eligible.
This is huge for subcontractors, sole traders, and independent tradies in the construction industry. If you can provide evidence of your work such as contracts, invoices, or tax records, you could still meet the requirements for state nomination.
A Simpler Application Process
Queensland has also made the application process smoother this year:
- You don’t need to lodge a new Expression of Interest (EOI) if you already have one active in SkillSelect.
- Instead, you’ll just need to submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) directly to Migration Queensland.
This small change makes things much easier and ensures Queensland can quickly identify applicants who fit their priority needs.
What This Means for You
So, what’s the takeaway?
- If you’re in building and construction, Queensland wants you.
- You’ll need 9 months’ onshore work experience for the 190 visa, or 6 months for the 491 visa.
- Casual and self-employed work now count, which gives you more flexibility.
- The process is simpler with the new ROI system.
For many skilled workers, this is one of the best times to apply for Queensland state nomination.
How Pathway to Aus Can Help
Migration rules can change quickly and small mistakes in your application could cost you valuable time and opportunity. That’s where we come in.
At Pathway to Aus, we’re more than just migration agents. We’re also an all-in-one education and migration provider. We help students, skilled workers and families find the best study and migration pathways to Australia.
Whether you want to check if you’re eligible for the QLD migration nomination 2025/2026, need help preparing your ROI, or are thinking about studying a course that leads to migration, our team of registered migration agents here in Queensland can guide you every step of the way!
Final Thoughts
The QLD Migration Nomination Program 2025/2026 is opening new doors especially for construction workers and tradies already in Queensland. By recognising casual and self-employed work and offering a simpler application process, the state is making it easier than ever for skilled migrants to build a future here.
If you think you might be eligible, now is the time to get expert advice and make sure your application is as strong as possible.
Ready to explore your options? Book a consultation with us here at Pathway to Aus today and let’s start planning your pathway to living, studying, and working in Australia.
