2026–27 migration program: what changed for workers

The government kept the permanent program at 185,000 places, but moved a lot of them around: • Employer Sponsored (mostly 186): up from 44,000 to 58,040 places, now the biggest skilled category • Skilled Independent (189): up to 21,090 • State/Territory Nominated (190): up to 35,500 • Regional (491/494): cut from 33,000 to 14,110 If you are on a 482 and your employer is willing to nominate you for a 186, this is good news: more places usually means fewer delays. If you were counting on a regional visa, talk to a registered migration agent (check they are on the OMARA register) about a plan B early.