In a significant move for immigration aspirants, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) conducted its latest Canberra Matrix invitation round on 20 March 2025. A total of 639 invitations were issued to applicants under both the Subclass 491 visa and the Subclass 190 visa categories. The news has brought a fresh wave of excitement for those aiming for Australia PR through the ACT nomination program.
This latest Canberra Matrix invitation round highlights the strong competition and increasing demand for migration pathways to Australia. Here’s everything you need to know.
Key Highlights of the Latest Canberra Matrix Invitation Round
- Total Invitations Issued: 639
- Visa Categories: Subclass 491 visa and Subclass 190 visa
- Streams Covered: Canberra Residents and Overseas Applicants
- Selection Criteria: Based on matrix score, occupation demand, submission date & time
The ACT has allocated a fixed number of nominations monthly, managed carefully against its annual allotment to ensure fair distribution.
Detailed Table: Canberra Matrix Invitation Round - March 20, 2025
| Stream | Matrix Type | 190 Nominations | Minimum Matrix Score | 491 Nominations | Minimum Matrix Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canberra Residents | Small Business Owners | 5 | 120 | 6 | 115 |
| 457 / 482 Visa Holders | 36 | - | 7 | - | |
| Critical Skill Occupations | 206 | - | 263 | - | |
| Overseas Applicants | Critical Skill Occupations | 36 | - | 80 | - |
ACT Nomination Allocation for 2024-2025
The ACT nomination allocations for the year have been carefully structured to support Australia's skilled migration goals.
| Visa Type | Allocation | Approvals | Refusals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) | 1000 places | 547 | 44 (7%) |
| Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) | 800 places | 491 | 48 (9%) |
- Total Approvals: 1038
- Total Refusals: 92
- Remaining Allocation: 762 nomination places
Approval Rates by Residency Status
| Residency Status | Approvals | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| ACT Resident | 907 | 87% |
| Overseas Resident | 131 | 13% |
The figures show that ACT residents continue to dominate in the Canberra Matrix invitation round, reflecting the preference for onshore applicants.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Receiving an invitation is not guaranteed, even if you meet the minimum matrix score.
Factors influencing selection include:
- Date and time of matrix submission
- Occupation demand and cap
- Monthly allocation status
- Having an active application or a past ACT nomination can disqualify candidates.
- Personal factors like visa expiry, birthdays, or life events do not affect your ranking.
- Meeting the minimum matrix score shows eligibility, but not a guarantee of selection.
The ACT government emphasizes that the Canberra Matrix invitation round remains a highly competitive process, aiming to prioritize critical skills and contributions to the local economy.
What Is the Canberra Matrix?
The Canberra Matrix is a merit-based points system designed to select skilled individuals who can contribute significantly to the ACT economy. It supports applications for the Subclass 491 visa and the Subclass 190 visa, both of which offer pathways to Australian PR.
Applicants are assessed on various factors, including:
- Employment in critical occupations
- English proficiency
- Qualifications
- Work experience in Canberra
- Business ownership in ACT
The system ensures that invitations during the Canberra Matrix invitation round are issued fairly and transparently based on merit.
Why Is This Update Important for Australia PR Aspirants?
- It provides clarity on the competitive score thresholds.
- It outlines the strategic focus areas for migration.
- It signals future opportunities under the Subclass 491 visa and Subclass 190 visa streams.
With the remaining 762 nominations for the year, there is still a significant opportunity for skilled migrants planning to secure an ACT nomination and, eventually, Australia PR.
How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help You Achieve Australia PR
Navigating through the Canberra Matrix invitation round and understanding the nuances of ACT nomination can be challenging. That's where Visa Solutions 4u comes in!
Visa Solutions 4u specializes in:
- Personalized assessment of your eligibility
- Strategic advice to improve your Canberra Matrix score
- Guidance on documentation for Subclass 491 visa and Subclass 190 visa applications
- Pre-assessment for business or employment opportunities in Canberra
- Step-by-step support throughout the Australian PR application process
Their expert consultants have a proven track record in helping applicants secure ACT nominations and realize their dream of moving to Australia.
If you're serious about Australia PR, Visa Solutions 4u is your trusted partner for success!
