ACT nomination
The Department of Home Affairs allows us to nominate applicants for two types of skilled migration visas in the ACT:
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491) (provisional)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) (permanent)
ACT nomination allocation
The Australian Government allocates the ACT Government a fixed number of nomination places each financial year for each visa subclass.
2025-2026 Allocation of ACT Nomination Places:
- Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa: 800 places
- Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa: 800 places
This information will be updated after the allocation for the 2026-27 financial year is announced.
ACT nomination triggers a visa invitation from the Department of Home Affairs. ACT nomination does not guarantee a migration outcome. You must still meet the Department of Home Affairs visa criteria.
Expressing an interest for ACT Nomination
Before you start the ACT nomination process, you must submit a valid expression of interest (EOI) via SkillSelect. This is an online application process administered by the Department of Home Affairs. If you do not meet the Home Affairs visa criteria you cannot apply for ACT nomination.
You must be invited to apply for ACT nomination. Read the eligibility criteria carefully for your chosen nomination pathway. Once you are satisfied that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can express your interest in ACT nomination by completing the Canberra Matrix. We use the Matrix to fairly manage the nomination process and select applicants who will best contribute to the Canberra region.
The Matrix is a merit-based assessment tool where you can score points for your (potential) economic and / or social contribution to Canberra e.g., length of ACT residence, occupation, business activity, employment, English, study, investment and close family ties.
We will rank your Matrix based on your residency, occupation, and the number of points you have claimed. Those who rank high enough will receive an invitation to apply for ACT nomination.
Please note: the demand for ACT nomination may exceed the annual allocation of nomination places. There is no guarantee that your Matrix score will be ranked, even if you meet the eligibility criteria.