Tag Archive for: Visa update

ACT State Nomination Update 2026

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ACT State Nomination Update: What Skilled Visa Applicants Need to Know for 2026-27

The ACT Government has released a number of updates regarding its state nomination program for the 2026-27 financial year. While nomination allocations from the Australian Government are yet to be finalised, ACT Migration has provided important information about upcoming invitation rounds, changes to the Canberra Matrix system, and updates to nomination guidelines.

Here’s a summary of the key developments.

First ACT Invitation Round Scheduled for October

Although the ACT is still awaiting confirmation of its nomination allocation for 2026-27, it has decided to proceed with planning invitation rounds to provide continuity for applicants.

The first invitation round of the program year is expected to take place during the week commencing 12 October 2026. Additional invitation rounds have been tentatively scheduled for the remainder of the year, however these dates may change once the ACT receives its final allocation of nomination places.

For skilled migrants seeking ACT nomination, this means activity in the program is expected to resume shortly, despite ongoing uncertainty around allocation numbers.

Free skilled visa assessment

New ACT Migration Portal Now Fully Operational

The ACT Migration Application Portal has now been in operation since 30 July 2026.

According to ACT Migration, the transition to the new system has been largely successful, although a number of agents and applicants have reported functionality issues and suggested improvements. ACT Migration has confirmed that feedback is being actively reviewed and that one of the benefits of the new platform is the ability to make ongoing improvements more efficiently.

The department has indicated it will continue monitoring portal performance, security and user experience, with further updates and enhancements expected over time.

Warning About Duplicate Canberra Matrix Payments

ACT Migration has become aware of a small number of duplicate payments being made for Canberra Matrix submissions.

The issue appears to be linked to delays between payment being received and the portal updating the application status to “Submitted”. ACT Migration has advised that this delay can be normal and may take several days.

Applicants and agents are therefore encouraged not to make a second payment simply because their Canberra Matrix has not immediately updated. Instead, they should contact ACT Migration to confirm receipt of payment before taking any further action.

Clarification to Canberra Matrix Submission Rules

A minor update has been made to the ACT Nomination Guidelines following feedback from migration agents.

The clarification relates to the number of Canberra Matrix submissions an applicant may hold at any one time.

Under the updated guidelines, applicants can:

  • Hold up to two active Canberra Matrix submissions per occupation
  • Nominate up to four separate occupations
  • Hold submissions across either the Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 pathways, or a combination of both

This means an eligible applicant could potentially hold up to eight active Canberra Matrix submissions simultaneously, provided all eligibility requirements are met.

The update does not represent a policy change but provides clearer guidance on how existing rules are intended to operate.

ACT Occupation List Still Under Review

The ACT has confirmed that it is still finalising its occupation list for the 2026-27 program year.

Officials have stated that delays in receiving confirmation of nomination allocations have impacted the timing of the review process. As a result, the updated occupation list has not yet been released.

Prospective applicants should continue monitoring ACT Migration announcements for further information regarding eligible occupations and nomination opportunities.

Final Thoughts

While the ACT’s nomination allocation remains uncertain, these updates provide some reassurance that the program is progressing. The scheduled October invitation round, clarification of Canberra Matrix rules, and continued development of the migration portal indicate that ACT Migration is preparing for a more active program year ahead.

Applicants considering ACT nomination should ensure their Canberra Matrix is up to date and keep a close eye on future announcements regarding invitation rounds, occupation lists and nomination allocations.

Australia Working Holiday Visa 2026

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Are you considering applying for an Australia Working Holiday Visa in 2026?

Australia has announced several important changes to its Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program in 2026, impacting applicants from multiple countries. From expanded age limits and increased visa caps to new ballot arrangements and future program launches, these updates create new opportunities for young travelers looking to live, work and explore Australia.

New Ballot System Coming for Indonesian Applicants

One of the biggest developments is the introduction of a visa ballot process for Indonesian passport holders applying for their first Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa.

Ballot registrations are expected to open later in 2026. All eligible Indonesian applicants will have an equal chance of selection, including those who already hold an Indonesian Government Letter of Support (SDUWHV) obtained in a previous program year.

Importantly, holding an SDUWHV will not provide preferential treatment, reserve a place in the program, or exempt applicants from participating in the ballot process.

Further details are expected once the arrangements are finalised.

Processing Delays Expected Due to High Application Volumes

The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that it is currently experiencing a high volume of applications for both:

  • Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
  • Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)

As a result, applicants should expect longer processing times than usual.

Applications are assessed individually, and additional information may be requested where required. Applicants are encouraged not to make travel arrangements until they receive written confirmation that their visa has been granted.

Age Limit Increased for Four Countries

From 1 July 2026, passport holders from the following countries can apply for a Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) up to the age of 35:

  • Cyprus
  • Finland
  • Germany
  • Republic of Korea (South Korea)

Eligible applicants can lodge an application until 11:59pm (AEST) on the day before their 36th birthday.

This change expands eligibility for thousands of potential applicants who were previously limited by lower age requirements.

Uruguay Receives Increased Visa Allocation

Australia has increased the annual allocation of first Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visas available to eligible Uruguayan citizens.

From 1 July 2026, the cap has increased to 1,500 visas per program year, completing a previously agreed enhancement to the bilateral arrangement between Australia and Uruguay.

The increase provides more opportunities for young Uruguayans to gain Australian work and travel experience.

Luxembourg Applicants No Longer Need a Letter of Support

In another welcome simplification, Luxembourg passport holders no longer need to provide a Letter of Support when applying for a Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa.

The change took effect on 3 June 2026 and forms part of broader efforts to strengthen mobility arrangements between Australia and Luxembourg.

The removal of this requirement is expected to make the application process simpler and more accessible.

China, India and Vietnam Ballot Registrations Closed

Registration for the 2026-2027 Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa ballot has now closed for applicants from:

  • China
  • India
  • Vietnam

The registration period ended on 25 June 2026.

Prospective applicants from these countries should monitor future announcements regarding ballot selections and upcoming program years.

Czech Republic Program Extended

The pilot Work and Holiday arrangement between Australia and the Czech Republic has been extended.

Czech citizens can continue to apply online through ImmiAccount, ensuring ongoing access to the Australian Work and Holiday visa pathway.

The extension reflects the continued success of the arrangement and maintains mobility opportunities between the two countries.

Philippines Work and Holiday Program Progressing

Australia and the Philippines continue to work towards launching their new Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) arrangement following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in September 2023.

Once operational, the arrangement will allow up to 200 young Australians and 200 young Filipinos each year to:

  • Spend up to 12 months in the partner country
  • Undertake short-term work
  • Participate in short-term study

Administrative preparations are still underway, and the Department has advised that further information, including commencement dates and application requirements, will be released once final arrangements are in place.

Ongoing Benefits for UK Passport Holders

The Working Holiday Maker changes introduced under the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement remain in effect.

These arrangements continue to provide enhanced mobility opportunities for eligible UK citizens seeking to live and work in Australia under the Working Holiday program.

Remember the Six-Month Employer Rule

Working Holiday Makers can generally work in any occupation or industry while in Australia. However, visa condition 8547 typically limits employment with a single employer to a maximum of six months.

Some exemptions apply, and workers may be able to obtain permission to remain with the same employer beyond six months in certain circumstances.

Applicants should ensure they understand these conditions before accepting long-term employment arrangements.

What These Changes Mean for Applicants

The 2026 updates demonstrate Australia’s continued commitment to expanding international mobility opportunities while managing growing demand for Working Holiday visas.

Key trends include:

  • Expanded eligibility through higher age limits
  • Increased visa allocations for selected countries
  • Simplified application requirements
  • New ballot systems to manage demand
  • Expansion of bilateral Working Holiday arrangements

For prospective travelers, staying informed about eligibility requirements, processing delays and country-specific arrangements will be crucial when planning an Australian working holiday.

We offer consultations for working holiday visa applicants. 

Why Your EOI Matters More Than You Think

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If you’re planning to apply for an Australian skilled visa, your Expression of Interest (EOI) can make or break your migration journey. A simple mistake, such as overclaiming points or misunderstanding state nomination requirements, can lead to a wasted invitation, a visa refusal, or even the loss of thousands of dollars in application fees.

Unfortunately, we are seeing this regularly as the visa process becomes more challenging and expensive.

Below are some considerations when preparing your EOI for a skilled visa.

Keep Your EOI Updated

Incorrect points claims or misunderstanding nomination requirements can lead to refusals, lost invitations, and thousands in wasted fees.

Your EOI should be reviewed and updated whenever your circumstances change.

This may include:

  • Changing employers
  • Completing additional work experience
  • Improving your English language score
  • Obtaining a new qualification
  • Adding a skilled partner
  • Receiving a new skills assessment

Importantly, updating your EOI without changing your points score generally does not affect your queue position for invitation purposes.

Learn more about skilled visas at our UK events this September

State Nomination Is About More Than Points

For state nominated visas, such as the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491), invitations are not based solely on points or queue position.

Each state and territory sets its own nomination priorities and selection criteria. Factors that may improve your chances of nomination include:

  • Occupations currently in demand within the state
  • Superior English language results
  • Relevant skilled employment
  • Employment offers within the state
  • A skilled partner
  • Previous study or work experience in the nominating state

State nomination is extremely competitive. Getting your EOI correct and reviewing state criteria is crucial for skilled visa success.

Having a high points score does not automatically guarantee a state invitation.

Understand EOI Validity Periods

An EOI remains valid for two years from the date it is lodged.

Before submitting an EOI, you should generally obtain:

  • A positive skills assessment
  • The required English language test results

Both are essential for accurately calculating your points score and determining your eligibility.

Keep in mind that:

  • English language test results are generally valid for up to three years for migration purposes.
  • Skills assessments are typically valid for two or three years, depending on the assessing authority and occupation.

Your Points May Change Automatically

The SkillSelect system automatically updates certain factors over time.

For example, your EOI may gain or lose points when you:

  • Reach a milestone age bracket
  • Accumulate additional years of skilled employment

This is why it’s important to keep your employment details current. If you change employers and fail to update your EOI, your points score may not accurately reflect your circumstances.

Accuracy Matters

Don’t miss your chance to live in Australia due to an EOI mistake

It can be tempting to maximise your points score, but every claim made in your EOI must be supported by evidence when you receive an invitation.

A seemingly small error can result in:

  • A lost invitation
  • Refusal of your visa application
  • Significant delays
  • Loss of government application fees

If you’re unsure whether your EOI is accurate or competitive, obtaining professional advice before lodging can save considerable time, money and stress later in the process.

Considering a move to Australia? Visa Go can help assess your eligibility, prepare a compliant EOI and guide you through the skilled migration process from start to finish.

Book a consultation with our Registered Migration Agents

Person using pen to complete form.

How to Submit a Decision-Ready Australian Visa Application

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Efficient visa processing is a shared priority for both applicants and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). In a recent session featuring the DHA and Migration Agents, a clear message emerged: the quality and completeness of applications play a critical role in processing times.

Here’s a practical breakdown of what was covered—and how you can submit truly decision-ready applications.

Why Decision-Ready Applications Matter

One of the most striking insights from the session was that:

Only 41% of Skills in Demand visa applications were submitted ‘decision-ready’ as of March 2026.

This means the majority of applications require follow-up, which significantly slows processing times.

Key causes of delays:

  • Incomplete or missing documents
  • Errors in application details
  • Third-party checks (e.g. police clearances, employment verification)
  • Case-specific complexities

A decision-ready application—one that is complete, accurate, and fully evidenced at lodgement. This reduces the need for additional information requests and helps the department process cases faster.

Migration Programme Snapshot (2025–26)

  • Total migration places: 185,000
  • Skilled stream allocation: 71%

This strong focus on skilled migration highlights the importance of getting applications right the first time—especially in areas addressing labour shortages.

Visa Processing Priorities

Under Ministerial Direction 105, DHA prioritises applications that deliver the greatest economic and social benefit.

This includes:

  • Employer-sponsored roles in regional areas
  • Healthcare and teaching occupations
  • Accredited sponsors

What Makes an Application “Decision-Ready”?

To be considered decision-ready, applications must meet three core principles:

1. Complete and Accurate Information

  • All fields filled correctly
  • Correct visa subclass/stream selected
  • Consistency across documents

2. All Required Documents Attached at Lodgement

  • Identity documents
  • Employment contracts
  • Skills and qualifications evidence
  • Police clearances and Medicals

3. Claims Are Fully Substantiated

  • Work experience supported by detailed references
  • Salary aligned with market ratesPerson using pen to complete form.
  • Business needs are clearly demonstrated

Tip: Lodging nomination and visa applications simultaneously helps streamline processing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The department highlighted the top reasons for Section 56 requests (requests for further information). Avoid these common pitfalls:

  • Missing or Incorrect Police Clearances – Ensure they are valid, include all name variations, and cover required periods.
  • Insufficient Work Experience Evidence – Provide detailed employment references, not just job titles.
  • Unclear Employment Contracts – Contracts must clearly define role, salary and terms of employment.
  • Weak Business/Nomination Evidence – Must demonstrate a genuine position.
  • Incorrect Salary Calculations – Clearly outline how the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) is determined.
  • Labour Market Testing Issues – Provide complete and compliant evidence.

After Lodgement: Don’t Forget Your Obligations

Submitting the application is not the final step.

Applicants and sponsors must notify DHA of any changes, including:

  • Business sponsorship status
  • Employment arrangements
  • Personal details (e.g. address, passport updates)

New Tools and Resources

To support better outcomes, DHA has developed:

  • Decision-ready application guides
  • Checklists for nomination and visa applications

These can be accessed on The Department of Home Affairs Website.

Key Takeaways

  • Completeness is critical: less than half of applications currently meet the mark.
  • Priority matters: regional, healthcare, education, and accredited sponsors are fast-tracked.
  • Documentation is everything: missing or unclear evidence is the #1 cause of delays.
  • Preparation saves time: decision-ready applications lead to faster decisions.

Final Thought

Submitting a visa application is no longer just about eligibility—it’s about precision, completeness, and strategy.

If you want faster outcomes, fewer delays, and a smoother process, the message is simple:

Make your application decision-ready from day one.

WA Construction Grant Extended: $13.1M Boost for 2026

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WA Construction Grant Extended: What the $13.1M Workforce Boost Means for Builders, Tradies & Employers (2026 Update).

Western Australia’s construction industry received a major vote of confidence. The State Government has confirmed the continuation and expansion of key construction workforce grants and incentives, backed by a $13.1 million investment in the 2026–27 State Budget.

For builders, subcontractors, and employers struggling with labour shortages, this is a significant development—one that could ease workforce pressure and unlock new project capacity.

At Visa Go Australia, we help businesses sponsor overseas workers and apply for their $10,000 grant.

Book an employer sponsorship consultation.

WA Construction Grant Extended – What Has Been Announced?

The WA Government is extending its construction workforce support programs, rather than introducing a completely new grant. This continuation focuses on attracting skilled labour and supporting business growth.

Key funding highlights:

WA Construction Grant Extended

This follows earlier funding rounds and brings total investment in these initiatives to $54 million since 2023.

What is the Construction Grant?

This funding provides workforce incentives and subsidies designed to solve WA’s skilled construction worker shortage. These programs:

  • Help employers hire and retain skilled workers
  • Cover migration and relocation costs
  • Incentivise workers to move to WA

What Funding Can You Access?

Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP) – Up to $10,000 per worker.

Available to WA construction employers and skilled migrants.

Build a Life in WA Incentive (BALWA) – Up to $10,000 for interstate and NZ tradies relocating.

Designed to attract qualified tradespeople to WA by reducing relocation costs.

Construction Migration Office Support – Extended funding until 2029

Provides employer support for hiring overseas workers, plus guidance for migrants entering WA construction jobs.

Proven Results So Far

These programs aren’t new—and they’re already delivering measurable impact with 2,700+ skilled tradies migrating to WA since the launch.

1,220+ WA businesses, many SMEs, have also been supoorted.

Highest demand roles include:

  • Carpenters
  • Electricians
  • Plumbers
  • Bricklayers
  • Tilers

This shows the initiative is directly targeting the trades most critical to residential construction and housing supply.

Learn the costs and processes of sponsoring overseas workers.

When Does It Start?

  • New funding applies from the 2026–27 State Budget
  • Additional migration places open from 1 July 2026

Final Thoughts

The continuation of WA’s construction workforce funding is a major positive signal for the industry.

Rather than short-term stimulus, the government is investing in:

  • Sustainable workforce growth
  • Skilled migration
  • Business support

For employers, it presents a real opportunity to fill critical roles faster, reduce hiring costs and scale operations confidently.

Whether you’re a construction business or a tradesperson, Visa Go Australia can help you. Book a consultation to understand your options. 

Australian immigration update May 2026

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As the migration year wraps up and the Federal Budget is released, it’s a timely moment for a May 2026 Australian immigration update.

The 2026–27 Australian Federal Budget, announced on 12 May 2026, does not dramatically change migration numbers—but it significantly reshapes who gets selected, how quickly they enter the workforce, and where opportunities will sit over the next year.

For visa applicants and employers alike, the key takeaway is simple: migration is becoming more targeted, more competitive, and more closely tied to Australia’s workforce needs.

Are you in a priority occupation for skilled migration?

A Stable Intake—but a More Competitive System

At first glance, the headline number looks familiar. The Government has kept the permanent Migration Program at 185,000 places, maintaining the same cap as previous years.

However, the real shift lies beneath that number. Over 70% of places continue to be allocated to the skilled stream, reinforcing that migration is primarily an economic tool to address labour shortages.

For applicants, this means one thing: the total number of opportunities has not increased, but the way those opportunities are distributed has changed—making competition more concentrated in certain profiles and pathways.

Why Being in Australia Now Matters More Than Ever

One of the most significant changes in this year’s budget is the continued prioritisation of onshore applicants—people who are already living and working in Australia.

Roughly 129,590 places (around 70%) will go to migrants already in the country, leaving a much smaller share for offshore applicants.

For visa applicants, this reinforces a growing trend:

If you are already in Australia—whether on a student visa, graduate visa, or employer-sponsored visa—you are now in a structurally stronger position when it comes to permanent residency pathways.

For employers, this shift is equally important. It signals that the government wants businesses to focus on retaining and transitioning their existing migrant workforce, rather than relying solely on offshore recruitment.

A Clear Focus on Jobs: Migration Linked to Skill Shortages

The Budget makes it clear that migration is not just about numbers—it is about filling specific gaps in the labour market.

Australia continues to face shortages across several industries, particularly:

  • construction and trades
  • infrastructure
  • healthcare
  • engineering
  • technology sectors

This means migration policy is increasingly aligned with real, immediate workforce needs.

For applicants, your occupation has never mattered more. Those in high-demand sectors—especially trades and technical roles—are likely to see stronger pathways and faster processing. For employers in these industries, migration remains a critical lever to address ongoing staff shortages.

Electrician

Skills assessments and licensing may become quicker for electricians and plumbers.

Faster Pathways into Work—Especially for Tradespeople

One of the most practical outcomes of the Budget is a major investment in helping migrants start work sooner.

The government has allocated $85.2 million to overhaul skills assessments and licensing processes, particularly for trade occupations like electricians, plumbers, and construction workers.

The goal is to reduce delays that often prevent qualified migrants from working in their field. In many cases, workforce entry times could be cut by up to six months, while also bringing thousands of additional skilled workers into key industries each year.

For visa applicants, this is a meaningful improvement—especially if you are a licensed tradesperson.

For employers, it means you may be able to hire and utilise skilled migrants faster.

The Upcoming Points Test Overhaul: A Shift Toward Higher Skills

Perhaps the most important long-term change is the planned reform of the skilled migration points test.

The government has confirmed that the system will be redesigned to favour:

  • younger applicants
  • higher levels of education
  • stronger skill profiles and English language

While full details are still being developed, the direction is clear: Australia is aiming to select migrants who will deliver stronger long-term economic value.

For applicants, this signals a more selective environment ahead. Meeting minimum requirements may no longer be enough—you will need to stand out on skills, qualifications, and employability.

For employers, the reform is likely to produce a pool of candidates that is more aligned with high-skill and high-productivity roles, although it may also reduce availability of lower-skilled workers.

What This Means in Practice

For visa applicants, the 2026–27 Budget reinforces that success in Australia’s migration system will increasingly depend on three factors: being onshore, working in a high-demand occupation, and demonstrating strong English and qualifications. The pathway to permanent residency has not disappeared—but it is becoming more strategic and more competitive.

For employers, the message is equally clear. Migration will continue to play a critical role in workforce planning, but the focus is shifting toward retaining talent already in Australia and aligning recruitment with priority skill areas. Businesses that invest in existing migrant employees and support their transition to permanent residency are likely to be best positioned.

The system is moving toward a model that is:

  • more focused on skills
  • faster at getting migrants into jobs
  • more aligned with long-term economic needs

For both migrants and employers, understanding this shift—and adapting early—will be key to making the most of the opportunities ahead.

Learn about your visa options by booking a consultation.

Attend one of our events.

Electrician

Australia Shifts Skilled Visa Invitations Towards Tradespeople

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Australia’s Skilled Visa Invitations data has been updated!

Australia’s most recent Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) invitation round shows a clear shift in focus: trades workers are now at the front of the queue.

On 21 August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs issued 6,887 invitations for the subclass 189 visa. While professionals in health and teaching remain in demand, this round highlighted a strong emphasis on construction and trade occupations.

Painting Trades Worker skills assessment

Why trades are in demand

Australia is facing significant labour shortages in the building and construction sector. With housing supply under pressure and major infrastructure projects underway across the country, demand for skilled tradespeople has never been higher.

The government’s migration program is reflecting these needs by inviting a large number of trades applicants—many at the minimum points threshold of 65 points.

Occupations invited at 65 points

The following trades were invited in the August 2025 round on just 65 points, the lowest possible qualifying score for a 189 visa:

  • Bricklayer
  • Cabinetmaker
  • Carpenter
  • Carpenter and Joiner
  • Electrician (General)
  • Fibrous Plasterer
  • Lift Mechanic
  • Painting Trades Worker
  • Plumber (General)
  • Wall and Floor Tiler

This demonstrates the government’s urgent priority to bring in more skilled workers to fill shortages in the construction industry.

ElectricianWhat this means for applicants

For tradespeople considering migration to Australia, now is a particularly strong opportunity. Even applicants at the base threshold of 65 points received invitations, whereas other professions often require higher scores or longer wait times.

Surprisingly, Nurses and Teachers needed 80-85 points to secure a 189 invitation in the last round. The previous round saw Secondary Teachers invited on 70 points, showing that this occupation has become significantly more competitive.

Subclass 189 is a permanent residency visa that does not require employer sponsorship or a state/territory nomination, giving successful applicants the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia.

How we can help

At Visa Go Australia, we specialise in supporting tradespeople through the migration process. Our team guides you through the entire process, from skills assessments to visa lodgement, giving your application the best chance of success

If you’re a tradesperson interested in securing permanent residency in Australia, now is the time to act. Book a consultation with our registered migration agent to get started.

Working Holiday Visa

New Working Holiday visa arrangements for UK passport holders to commence

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Finally, the new Working Holiday visa arrangements for UK passport holders are set to commence!

From 1 July 2024, UK citizens can receive up to three separate Working Holiday visas without completing specified work. (Commonly known as ‘regional work’.)

These rules are effective for all applications for the Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa submitted by UK passport holders from 1 July 2024 onwards.

This includes those who previously entered Australia on a Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa.

Working Holiday visa holders can stay in Australia for a total of three years. This period includes three separate visas, each valid for 12 months, excluding any visas affected by COVID-19. These rules remain unchanged.

UK passport holders are eligible to apply for a Working Holiday visa if they are aged between 18 and 35 years (inclusive).

Working Holiday Visa

New Working Holiday visa arrangements will allow UK citizens more opportunities to come to Australia

Understanding Australia’s Migration Program

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Australia’s migration program runs from 1 July to 30 June. Each year, the Government sets the size and composition of the migration program. Understanding Australia’s Migration Program can give you insight into your chances of securing a visa.

Australia’s Migration Program

The program consists of three streams: Skilled, Family and Special Eligibility.

The skilled stream is created to attract highly skilled workers into Australia. This stream supports the Australian economy and fills labour shortages.

Popular skilled stream visas include skilled, employer sponsored, business and talent applications.

The family stream enables Australian citizens, permanent residents, or Eligible NZ citizens to reunite with immediate family members. This includes partners, parents, orphan relatives, aged dependent relatives, and carers.

Popular family stream visas include partner, parent and remaining relative applications.

The special eligibility stream includes applicants who do not fit into skilled or family streams. This stream is very small.

An example is former permanent residents returning to Australia.

How many visas are available?

There are two primary considerations for each year’s migration program:

  1. How many visas will be available?
  2. Where will visas be allocated?

The skilled stream is crucial for supporting Australia’s economy, whilst the family stream is important for social cohesion.

Traditionally, the skilled stream receives the majority of visa allocations in each migration program. In 2019–20, the skill stream accounted for 70 per cent of the total Program. However in 2020-21, the Government created a more equal balance in attempt to reduce the partner visa backlog.

There is increased pressure on the Government to bring back this balance, especially for parents. The processing time for contributory parent visas has ballooned to 12+ years.

By understanding Australia’s Migration Program, you can appreciate why some visas take longer to process.

To discover your chances of securing an Australian visa, book a consultation with our Migration Agent.

Read the 2022-23 Migration Program Report

Learn more about Australian visas by completing our free online assessment.

An update from Visa Go Australia

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It’s been a busy year for Visa Go Australia! Read our latest updates below.

New Perth office

This month we moved into a new office in Wembley, Perth. We are delighted to have a bigger office to expand our visa and employment services.

You can find us at 59 Grantham Street, WEMBLEY WA 6014. *Please note we do not offer walk-in consultations.

At our office we host Vetassess technical interviews for trade occupations.

Our Case Processor Kimberley is based in this office. She assists with Australian partner visas and employment services.

Kimberley has been studying a Graduate Diploma in Migration Law this year. In 2024, she will complete her Capstone exam to become a licensed Migration Agent.

An update from our Migration Agent

It’s been a busy year with lots of exciting visa changes. Our Migration Agent Darren Chatt MARN:0211214 reflects on some of these changes.

“Australia is committed to attracting skilled migrants. We have seen many state sponsorship invitations for our clients, particularly teachers and nurses. We also welcomed WA’s Construction Visa Subsidy Program.”

WA’s Construction Visa Subsidy Program is a monetary incentive for migrants to build a life in WA. Applicants can claim up to $10,000!

There has been good news for temporary skilled visa holders too.

“The Department have announced easier pathways to PR (permanent residency) for temporary skilled visa holders. Soon, applicants will be able to apply for PR under the 186 visa after just two years of working with for sponsors.”

Read: A Migration System for Australia’s Future

We have also received multiple requests and grants for our contributory parent visa clients.

Our partner visas continue to be processed in 2-6 months from lodgement. This includes both onshore and offshore applications. Submitting a complete application with the correct documents helps reduce processing times.

Ask us for a partner visa quote

Visa consultations

This year we implemented an online booking and payment system for visa consultations.

A visa consultation with Darren is an excellent way to understand your Australian visa options.

As a licensed Migration Agent, Darren provides honest and reliable advice about your chances of migrating to Australia.

Learn more here: Australian Visa Consultation – MARA Registered Agent – Visa Go Australia (visa-go.com)

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ACT State Nomination Update 2026

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