The Federal Government recently conducted Subclass 189 invitation round 2025 & sent invitations for Subclass 189. Many students were confident that when the 189 Skilled Independent Visa invitations were released, they would celebrate together. Their points were strong, their documents were in place, and both believed they had an equal chance.
Many students and skilled migrants find themselves in this situation, and it may be happening to you as well. Imagine this scenario that we hear frequently at our consultancy –
A student and his friend both scored 85 points.
They were confident that when the 189 Skilled Independent Visa invitations were released, they would celebrate together.
But that didn’t happen.
The friend received the invitation.
The student didn’t.
For a moment, it feels unfair… same points, same effort – different outcomes.
Why Did the Friend Get Selected First?
The Department of Home Affairs follows a LIFO (Last In, First Out) principle for ranking EOIs when applicants share the same points. This means:
- Two candidates with equal points are NOT treated equally.
- The one who submitted the EOI earlier is ranked higher.
- When the invitation quota is limited, timing becomes a deciding factor.
This is exactly why one student gets selected while another – with identical points – does not.
When we checked dozens of cases from the recent round, EOI timing was one of the strongest patterns. Along with this, factors like occupation demand, ceilings, state-wise priority, and positioning within the Australia skilled occupation list also impacted outcomes.
Our Analysis: Why the Next Subclass 189 Round Is Expected in Feb 2025
Based on historical patterns, government processing behaviour, and multiple invitation trends, our internal assessment shows a high probability that the next Subclass 189 invitation round will occur around February 2025.
Here’s why:
- The last two rounds were spaced out in a predictable cycle.
- Skilled migration allocations are usually distributed quarterly.
- Occupation ceilings for major professions are still not reached.
- The federal quota still has room for 189 allocations.
- Past February rounds have shown high invite numbers.
This projection helps students prepare ahead rather than wait blindly. If you need personalised evaluation, check your points using tools such as Australia PR points calculator, PR calculator Australia, or calculate PR points Australia.
Next Steps: What Every Student Must Do While Waiting for the Next 189 Round
If you didn’t receive an invitation in the recent round, don’t worry — but don’t stay passive. The next few weeks are important. Here’s what every student and skilled migrant should do:
1. Recheck your points carefully
Use updated tools like points calculator PR and ensure your calculating PR points is accurate.
2. Update your EOI immediately
New experience, English score, or partner points must be added without delay. Timing matters under the LIFO rule.
3. Confirm that your occupation is still valid
Check the skilled occupation list and ensure your VETASSESS skill assessment remains current.
4. Keep alternative pathways open
Explore options like the sub class 190 visa, skilled nominated subclass 190 visa, or even 491 visa requirements (related skilled stream) and 491 family sponsored visa requirements.
5. Keep your documents updated
Police checks, qualification proofs, and English tests should be valid when the next round is announced.
Doing this ensures you are fully prepared when the February 2025 round is conducted.
Need Clarity on Your Case?
If you’re unsure where you stand or whether you qualify for permanent resident eligibility Australia or a permanent resident visa Australia, simply email your query to info@shrikrishnaconsultants.com.
Our team specialising in Australian PR & Migration will guide you with clear, transparent, case-specific advice.
