South Australia Issues 445 Skilled Migration Invitations in April 2026

By Vikrant Singh, April 09, 2026

South Australia has continued its proactive approach to attracting global talent, issuing 445 invitations under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program in April 2026. The latest round reflects a strong focus on critical sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and ICT, reinforcing the state’s commitment to addressing workforce shortages and supporting economic growth.

According to the official update from Skilled and Business Migration South Australia, invitations were distributed across Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa) streams, with a balanced allocation aimed at both permanent and regional migration pathways.

Key Highlights from April 2026 Draw

• Total Invitations Issued: 445

  • Subclass 190: 245

  • Subclass 491: 200

• Top Occupation Groups Invited:

  • Health Professionals (79 invitations)

  • Design, Engineering, Science & Transport Professionals (72 invitations)

  • ICT Professionals (38 invitations – entirely under Subclass 491)

• Strong Demand for Regional Migration:

  
  

  Subclass 491 continues to dominate in sectors like ICT, business professionals, and technicians.

Detailed Invitations Breakdown – April 2026

ANZSCO Sub-major Group	Subclass 190	Subclass 491	Total
Specialist Managers	27	8	35
Hospitality, Retail & Service Managers	0	8	8
Business, HR & Marketing Professionals	3	20	23
Design, Engineering, Science & Transport Professionals	55	17	72
Education Professionals	25	3	28
Health Professionals	70	9	79
ICT Professionals	0	38	38
Legal, Social & Welfare Professionals	9	3	12
Engineering, ICT & Science Technicians	4	25	29
Automotive & Engineering Trades Workers	9	11	20
Construction Trades Workers	22	14	36
Electrotechnology & Telecommunications Trades Workers	20	6	26
Food Trades Workers	0	2	2
Skilled Animal, Agricultural & Horticultural Workers	0	0	0
Health & Welfare Support Workers	1	21	22
Office Managers & Program Administrators	0	15	15
Total	245	200	445

2025–26 Program Year Progress

South Australia has now issued a cumulative 2,131 invitations so far in the 2025–26 migration program year:

• Subclass 190: 1,312

• Subclass 491: 819

Health Professionals remain the most invited group overall, with 445 invitations to date, followed by Engineering and Technical occupations.

Sector Insights

Healthcare Leads the Way

The continued prioritisation of health professionals highlights ongoing workforce shortages in medical and allied health sectors. This trend aligns with Australia’s broader national strategy to strengthen healthcare systems.

Engineering & Infrastructure Demand

With 72 invitations in April alone, engineering and related professions remain critical to South Australia’s infrastructure development and innovation pipeline.

ICT Focus Shifts to Regional Pathways

Interestingly, all ICT invitations (38) were issued under Subclass 491, signalling a strong push to distribute tech talent into regional areas.

What This Means for Applicants

• Regional visas (Subclass 491) are becoming increasingly important, especially for ICT, business, and technical roles.

• Healthcare and engineering applicants continue to enjoy strong invitation prospects.

• Early application submission and profile readiness remain key, as invitation rounds are competitive and targeted.

What’s Next?

South Australia has confirmed that invitation rounds will continue monthly, with the next round expected in early May 2026.

Final Takeaway

The April 2026 invitation round reinforces South Australia’s strategic migration priorities—focusing on high-demand sectors, regional workforce distribution, and long-term economic sustainability. For skilled professionals worldwide, especially in healthcare, engineering, and ICT, the state remains one of the most promising migration destinations in Australia.

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