Australia PR Invitation Round November 2025: The Subclass 189 & 491 Update

Australia’s skilled migration program is moving fast. Have you already submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) or are just starting your journey? You must stay updated on invitation trends, for that’s the only difference between a successful grant and a missed opportunity.

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) concluded a massive November round. The results of this round show a clear shift in how the future residents of Australia are being selected.

Let’s break down exactly what happened and what it means for you.

What Happened in November 2025

The latest invitation round, on 13 November 2025, was a major event. Following a surprise early round in August, this November update demonstrates a more thoughtful, structured quarterly invitation cycle of the government.

The Numbers at a Glance

1. Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) – 10,000 invitations issued
2. Subclass 491 (Family-Sponsored) – 300 invitations issued

Why this Matters

6,887 invites in August to 10,000 in November – This leap shows a significant increase in the country’s ‘Skilled Independent’ appetite. However, on the other hand, the Family-Sponsored 491 stream remains extremely tight, which means that ‘State Nomination’ (the other 491 pathway) is still the smarter play for most.

Points vs. Occupation – The Real Cut-off

Although the minimum requirement is 65 points, the actual ‘invitation mark’ depends largely on what you do for a living.

The ‘Golden Ticket’ Occupations

Qualified trades (Carpenters, Plumbers, Electricians) and Healthcare professionals (Registered Nurses, GPs) saw invitations as low as 65-75 points.

The Competitive Lane

If you are in IT (Software Engineers, Analysts) or the Engineering field, the bar remains high. Here, invitations even require 85-100+ points.

Quick Refresh – Which Visa is Right for You?

What Are the Real Trends

1. Healthcare Remains Priority #1

Those in healthcare occupations have always been a priority. We at Ubhi Immigration Consultants, recently received an enquiry from a Registered Nurse from Nepal. She had 70 points, and we helped her secure a 189 invite.

2. Reap the ‘Trade’ Advantage

Australia is currently standing in the middle of a housing shortage. So you might be in the strongest position if you are a Bricklayer, Carpenter, or in a similar occupation. You may get an invite with lower points.

3. IT & Accounting – Take a Reality Check

This is the category where high points are mandatory. Our Ubhi Immigration Consultants continue to wait for a Software Developer client with 85 points, which means that occupation demand often beats raw points.

Your Action Plan for 2026 – How to Get Invited

‘Wait and hope’ is not the solution if you want to be in the next quarterly round.

Step 1

Ensure You Maximise Your Points (The Big Three)

English Proficiency

Moving from a ‘competent’ status to Superior English (IELTS 8+ or PTE 79+) can add a massive 20 points to your score. Generally, this is the single biggest factor when it comes to receiving an invitation.

Partner Points

If your spouse also has a skills assessment and competent English, it means another 10 points for you.

Work Experience

You must ensure that every month of relevant experience is logged.

Step 2

Update Your EOI Frequently

If two people have 90 points, the one who submitted or updated first gets the invite. In tie-breaker situations like this, the date you last updated your EOI matters. 

Step 3

Pivot to State Nomination (491/190)

With the 189 being so occupation-specific, look at the State Nomination allocations. States often have their own Priority Lists that might favour your specific profile more than the Federal government does.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is 65 points really sufficient for a 189 visa?

Yes, especially for high-demand trades and aged care. However, it is very unlikely for IT or engineering in the current climate.

Can I apply for both 189 and 491?

Absolutely. We actually recommend the same. It clearly doubles your visibility in the system. You get more than one path to your goal.

Why don’t I have an invite yet despite having 90 points?

Usually, it means your occupation is ‘over-subscribed’, i.e., spots are less and people applying are more. It may also mean that your EOI is new.

*Pro Tip: Even a small mistake can cost you years.

Even if you have 100 points, an EOI with a miscalculated work experience period or an incorrect date can mean a visa refusal. Why leave your future to chance? Let Ubhi Immigration Consultants help you navigate the points, the paperwork, and the path to your Australian PR.