Australian migration news

Ministerial Direction 119 sets five priority tiers for skilled visa processing, placing onshore applicants ahead of most offshore applicants.

AIA compares construction trade and secondary teaching pathways to PR for 485 graduates, plus dual citizenship risks and Bridging Visa A work rights.

VFS Global suspended services for Indian nationals in Australia, arrival declarations are covered, and student visa refusal rates are published.

AIA covers the international student planning level for 2027, universities expanding into India and tax on temporary residents.

Visa charges rise about 25% on average, with the Resident Return Visa up from $490 to $1,744. The working holiday age limit rises to 35 for four countries.

Net overseas migration stands at 303,000. The permanent program moves to a 70/30 onshore-offshore split, and legal questions arise on partner visa caps.

Regional migration planning levels fall for 2026–27. AIA explains the shift toward employer sponsorship, including the 186 visa.

AIA explains how to determine your de facto relationship start date for partner visas, plus Tasmania and South Australia nomination updates.

The 2026 Budget keeps permanent planning levels at 185,000 places, with 129,590 for people already in Australia. AIA reviews expected points test changes.

The Coalition proposes net overseas migration of 150,000 to 300,000 a year. Student visa grant rates hit record lows, and state quotas are filling.

The visa backlog reached 425,000 applications as of July 2025. India now ranks first by country of birth, and 186 visa processing times are also covered.