If you are looking to apply for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Migration Program as a PhD applicant, then you may have to face some disappointing news. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has announced important revisions to its Migration Program, and changed the rule related to PhD invitations, along with changes in the critical skills occupation list and other nomination rules.

This change comes into effect from the 2025-26 financial year and will have a significant impact on you if you are a PhD aspirant and willing to apply for ACT nomination. Here are more details about this update: 

Less Frequent PhD Applicant Invitation 

One of the most disappointing changes for PhD graduates is the revised process for receiving invitations. Previously, PhD applicants were invited every 7 days, whether there were enough nomination places available or not. But from now on, PhD applicants will only receive invitations during the official invitation rounds.  

This indicates that the frequency of getting invitations will be reduced, which could delay the migration process for many PhD graduates. However, this change won't affect the priority processing or eligibility of PhD applicants. 

Other Important Changes 

Key Changes to the Occupation List: The ACT’s Critical Skills Occupation List has been revised and reduced for the upcoming year. Initially, it included 152 ANZSCO 4-digit Unit Groups, but after this update, it will be shortened to 105 occupations. 

This update means that only occupations that are present in the new list will be eligible for nomination in future invitation rounds. 

However, applications submitted in response to the September 2025 invitation round will remain unaffected. This means even if your occupation is removed from the updated list, your application will be considered if it was submitted before the change. 

The updated list will apply to all Canberra Matrix submissions, no matter when they were lodged. 

457/482 Employer-Sponsored Pathway: For the 457/482 subclass pathway requirements, applicants must have been employed for at least six months with their sponsoring employer on their employer-sponsored visa. It’s now clearly stated in the updated guidelines. 

491 vs. 190 Invitations: The guidelines make it clear that 491 visa invitations will be sent before 190 visa invitations.  

Let Growmore Immigration Help You with ACT Migration Changes 

While these changes to the ACT Migration Program may seem like a setback for PhD graduates, it is important to stay informed and adjust your application strategy accordingly. The frequency of invitations may have reduced, but priority processing remains in place for PhD applicants, and there are still opportunities for those who stay proactive. 

So, if you are concerned about these changes or want to understand how these updates impact your chances of receiving an invitation, contact Growmore Immigration at +61 434202021 or info@growmore.one now!