Missed Victoria skilled migration invitation in the latest round? Don’t be discouraged — you’re not alone. Victoria’s Skilled and Business Migration Program recently held an invitation round on 9 October 2025, selecting skilled professionals for nomination under the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visas.
If you submitted a Registration of Interest (ROI) and didn’t receive any communication, don’t be discouraged. You’re not alone. Thousands of hopeful migrants submit EOIs and ROIs every year, and many are not selected in the first round—or even the tenth. The key is to stay strategic, patient, and proactive.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- What it means if you didn’t get invited
- Your chances of being selected in future rounds
- How to improve your profile
- What other options are available
What Does It Mean If You Didn't Get an Invitation?
First and foremost: it doesn’t mean you’ve been rejected.
Victoria has confirmed that if you don’t receive further communication about your ROI, it simply means:
“You have not been invited in this round, but your ROI remains valid and will be considered in future rounds.”
This means your EOI and ROI are still active, and you do not need to reapply—as long as your details remain correct and your circumstances haven’t changed.
When Is the Next Invitation Round?
Victoria does not publish exact dates for upcoming invitation rounds. They tend to conduct these monthly or bi-monthly, depending on:
The number of places remaining in their nomination allocation
Priority industries requiring skilled workers
Changes to immigration policy or program priorities
What You Can Expect:
More invitation rounds between October 2025 and June 2026
A higher chance of selection for applicants in:
Tip: Keep checking the Live in Melbourne website for updates on upcoming invitation rounds and changes to eligible occupations
How Competitive Is the Victorian State Nomination?
Victoria receives thousands of EOIs and ROIs, but has a limited annual nomination quota allocated by the Department of Home Affairs. For example:
In previous years, only 10-15% of ROI applicants were selected in a given round.
Most invited applicants had:
- High points scores (above 80)
- Relevant work experience
- Employment in target sectors
- Willingness to live or work in regional Victoria
What You Should Do Next (If You Missed Out)
If you weren’t invited this round, use this time wisely to enhance your profile. Here’s how:
1. Review and Update Your EOI & ROI
Double-check your EOI for:
Outdated employment details
Changes in English test results
Expired skills assessments
Newly obtained qualifications
Ensure your ROI reflects your current job, sector, and experience.
If any detail has changed, submit a new ROI with updated information. It shows proactivity and could increase your chances.
2. Boost Your Points Score
Your EOI is ranked primarily on points. Consider ways to increase your score:
Ways to Gain Extra Points:
| Category | Points |
| Superior English (PTE 79+/IELTS 8+) | +20 |
| Skilled Partner or Partner Skills | +5–10 |
| NAATI Accreditation | +5 |
| State Nomination (automatic for 190/491) | +5–15 |
| Australian Study Requirement | +5 |
| Regional Study | +5 |
| Work Experience | More years = more points |
3. Target High-Demand Occupations
Victoria prioritises specific sectors. If your skills align with these areas, highlight them:
Health and Allied Health: Nurses, Midwives, Allied Health Professionals
ICT: Software Engineers, Cyber Security Specialists
Engineering: Civil, Electrical, and Structural Engineers
Education: Secondary Teachers (especially STEM and special needs)
Regional Roles: A wide variety of occupations in rural or regional Victoria
Consider upskilling, gaining certifications, or switching to a high-demand occupation if feasible.
4. Secure Victorian Employment
Having a job offer in Victoria can significantly strengthen your ROI.
If you’re already in Victoria, look for relevant employment in your field.
If offshore, consider networking with Australian employers, using platforms like:
5. Consider Regional Victoria
Living or working in regional Victoria (outside Greater Melbourne) can:
Improve your chances for 491 nomination
Gain extra points
Help you settle in an area actively seeking skilled migrants
Many regions offer community support, cheaper living, and better visa outcomes.
6. Seek Professional Advice
If you're unsure how to strengthen your application, consider a consultation with a Registered Migration Agent.
Can I Submit a New ROI?
Yes — you can submit a new ROI if your circumstances change or if you improve your profile. However:
Make sure your EOI is updated first.
Don’t submit duplicate ROIs unless there is a genuine change (points, employment, sector, etc.)
Each ROI is valid for one financial year (until June 2026), unless withdrawn or replaced.
Should I Consider Other States or Pathways?
Absolutely. While Victoria is a popular destination, other states may offer:
Lower competition
Priority for your specific occupation
Regional programs tailored to migrants
Alternative Pathways:
NSW or Queensland 190/491 programs
South Australia’s skilled migration list
Employer-sponsored visas (subclass 482, 186)
Global Talent Visa (for highly skilled professionals)
Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)
Final Advice: Stay Ready, Stay Updated
Just because you weren’t selected in this round doesn’t mean the journey ends here. Many successful migrants were invited only after months—or even years—of persistence.
Key Takeaways:
Your ROI is still valid — no action needed unless your info has changed.
Take this opportunity to improve your profile and increase your competitiveness.
Stay informed on Victoria’s priorities and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Explore alternative states or visa subclasses.
Consult with a migration expert if you need guidance.
Need Help Planning Your Next Steps?
Understanding your options and improving your chances can feel overwhelming. Our MARA-registered migration agents are here to help you tailor a strategy that maximises your chances in Victoria—or elsewhere in Australia.
Considering a move to Australia or need assistance with your visa application? Book a visa consultation with our experienced Registered Migration Agents. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the Migration Program and take your first step towards a promising future in Australia.
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
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