Introduction
If you’ve been dreaming of living and working in Queensland, the latest 2025/2026 Migration Program updates bring fantastic opportunities. Whether you’re a skilled professional, an international student, or already working in construction, these changes could fast-track your pathway to residency in Australia.
At SOL Edu & Migration, we know how complex migration rules can seem. That’s why we’ve simplified the latest updates so you can clearly understand what’s changed and how you may qualify.
New Queensland Occupation List
Queensland has released its updated occupation list, spotlighting the jobs most in demand this year. The key takeaway? Building and construction roles are now top priority.
This comes as no surprise. With housing shortages, ongoing infrastructure projects, and rapid growth, Queensland urgently needs skilled tradies, engineers, and construction professionals. If you’re in this field, the timing couldn’t be better!
Dedicated Onshore Pathway for Construction Workers
For the first time, Queensland has launched a special onshore pathway for construction professionals.
If you’re already living in Queensland and working in trades, engineering, or site management, this new pathway gives you a more direct and stronger chance of securing a skilled visa nomination and ultimately permanent residency.
Work Experience Requirements
To be eligible, Have an occupation on the Queensland Onshore Skills List and you’ll need recent onshore experience in your nominated occupation:
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Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): At least 9 months, working 20+ hours per week
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Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): At least 6 months, working 20+ hours per week
- Subclass 190 & 491 (Building and construction Stream): At least 3 months, working 20+ hours per week
This ensures applicants are already integrated into Queensland’s workforce and ready to contribute long term.
This work experience must be:
- After you completed your qualification
- In an occupation that has the same first 3 digits in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) code as your nominated occupation
- At least 20 hours per week.
What’s New and Flexible
✅ Casual work now counts – perfect for dependents of international students and temporary workers.
✅ Self-employed workers are eligible – subcontractors, sole traders, and independent tradies can apply, provided they can show contracts, invoices, or tax records.
✅ Simpler application process – no need to lodge a fresh EOI if you already have one in SkillSelect. Instead, just submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) to Migration Queensland.
What This Means for You
If you’re a skilled worker in construction:
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Queensland is actively looking for you.
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The pathway is shorter and more accessible (9 months for 190, 6 months for 491).
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Your casual or self-employed work is now recognised.
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The ROI system makes applications smoother than ever.
This is one of the most favourable times to apply for Queensland state nomination.
How SOL Edu & Migration Can Help
Migration rules change quickly, and a small error in your application could cost you time and opportunity. That’s why you need trusted experts by your side.
At SOL Edu & Migration, we don’t just assist with visa application, we’re also an education and migration service provider. Whether you’re a student, skilled worker, or family, we help you design the best study and migration pathways to Australia.
✅ Check if you’re eligible for the QLD Migration Nomination 2025/2026
✅ Get step-by-step guidance preparing your ROI
✅ Explore study options that lead to migration pathways
Our team of registered migration agents in Queensland is here to support you every step of the way.