Australia Immigration Changes 2026: 7 Powerful Updates You Must Know
Australia Immigration Changes 2026 are creating important changes for skilled workers, international students, employers and families. From higher visa application charges and updated salary thresholds to new skilled visa processing priorities and tighter controls in international education, applicants need to understand the latest requirements before making important migration decisions.
This September 2026 update brings together the key changes affecting Australia’s immigration system and explains what they could mean for people planning to work, study, settle or reunite with family in Australia.
In This Article
1. New Skilled Visa Salary Thresholds From 1 July 2026
One of the most important Australia Immigration Changes 2026 is the increase in income thresholds for several skilled and employer-sponsored visa pathways.
The updated thresholds took effect from 1 July 2026 and are particularly relevant to employers sponsoring overseas workers and applicants planning employer-sponsored migration.
| Income Threshold | 2026–27 Amount | Relevant Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Core Skills Income Threshold | AUD 79,423 | Relevant employer-sponsored pathways, including the Subclass 482 Core Skills stream |
| Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold | AUD 79,423 | Applicable temporary and regional skilled pathways |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold | AUD 146,576 | Subclass 482 Specialist Skills stream |
Why Are These Salary Thresholds Important?
The salary threshold is an important part of assessing whether an employer-sponsored position meets the applicable migration requirements.
- Employers need to consider the applicable income threshold when sponsoring skilled workers.
- Applicants should check whether the proposed salary satisfies the relevant requirements.
- Salary compliance can be important when assessing employer-sponsored visa options.
- The correct threshold depends on the visa stream and circumstances of the nomination.
Important: Applicants should not rely on older salary figures published before 1 July 2026. The applicable threshold should be checked against the current rules at the time of application.
2. Australia Visa Fees Increased in 2026
Another major development under the Australia Immigration Changes 2026 is the increase in visa application charges from 1 July 2026.
Many visa categories experienced an increase in their first instalment application charge, making it important for applicants to update their migration budget before lodging an application.
| Visa Category | 2026 Fee Information |
|---|---|
| Student Visa – Subclass 500 | Primary applicant base charge increased from AUD 2,000 to AUD 2,500 |
| Subclass 186 | Primary applicant charge is AUD 6,140 |
| Subclass 186 – Additional Applicant 18+ | AUD 3,070 |
| Subclass 186 – Additional Applicant Under 18 | AUD 1,535 |
| Subclass 482 | Primary applicant charge is approximately AUD 4,015 |
The exact amount payable can depend on the visa type, applicant circumstances and applicable charging arrangements. Some applicant groups and visa streams can have different treatment or exemptions.
Planning Tip: Visa applicants should always check the current government application charge before lodging because visa fees can change independently of other eligibility requirements.
3. Skilled Visa Processing Priorities Have Changed
A significant change took effect on 25 July 2026, when Ministerial Direction 119 replaced the previous skilled visa processing direction.
The new direction applies to specified skilled visa applications and establishes the order in which certain applications are prioritised for processing.
Which Areas Receive Higher Priority?
- Law enforcement and defence
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Teaching
The framework also considers factors such as the applicant’s location and the nominated occupation.
This means applicants should look beyond simply asking whether an occupation is eligible for a visa. Processing priority can also influence how an application is handled within the Department’s processing system.
Regional applicants should take note: Previous assumptions about automatic processing priority based solely on regional positions or accredited sponsorship should not be relied upon under the current framework.
4. Australia’s 2026–27 Permanent Migration Program
Australia’s 2026–27 Permanent Migration Program has been set at 185,000 places.
The program continues to place strong emphasis on skilled migration while maintaining a substantial family migration component.
| Migration Stream | 2026–27 Planning Level |
|---|---|
| Skilled | 132,240 |
| Family | 52,460 |
| Special Eligibility | 300 |
| Total | 185,000 |
Skilled Migration Allocation
- Employer Sponsored: approximately 58,040 places
- Skilled Independent: approximately 21,090 places
- State/Territory Nominated: approximately 35,500 places
- Regional: approximately 14,110 places
- Talent and Innovation: approximately 3,500 places
The planning levels demonstrate the continued importance of skilled migration to Australia’s long-term migration strategy.
For skilled applicants: A strong occupation profile can be valuable, but applicants must still meet the specific eligibility requirements of the visa pathway, including skills, English, age, points, nomination or sponsorship requirements where applicable.
5. Important Student Visa and Education Updates
International education continues to be an important part of Australia’s migration and education system. However, the government has also increased its focus on student visa integrity and education-provider compliance.
Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) Registration Cancelled
On 4 September 2026, the Australian Government announced the cancellation of CRICOS registration for BSB80120 Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning).
The change takes effect from 5 October 2026.
From that date, overseas students will not be able to newly enrol in the affected course. Existing students will be able to complete their studies under the announced arrangements.
The government stated that the action followed concerns involving significant and systemic integrity issues, including concerns about non-genuine onshore transfers, visa refusal rates and course non-completion.
What does this mean for students?
Students should carefully assess their course and education provider before making an application. Choosing a genuine study pathway and checking current course registration information are increasingly important parts of student visa planning.
Student Visa Processing Priorities
Student visa applications are processed under Australia’s student visa priority framework.
For offshore student applications, the indicative priority targets are broadly:
- Priority 1: approximately 1–4 weeks
- Priority 2: approximately 5–8 weeks
- Priority 3: approximately 9–12 weeks
These timeframes are indicative and should not be treated as guaranteed processing periods.
6. Family Visa Places and Long Waiting Periods
Family migration remains a significant component of Australia’s permanent migration program.
For 2026–27, the Family stream has 52,460 places.
| Family Category | 2026–27 Places |
|---|---|
| Partner | 41,500 |
| Child | 3,500 |
| Parent | 7,060 |
| Other Family | 400 |
Parent visa categories remain subject to demand, caps and queue arrangements. Applicants in these categories should be prepared for potentially lengthy waiting periods.
Partner visa applicants should also understand that processing can take considerably longer than many temporary skilled visa applications.
7. Current Australia Visa Processing Times in 2026
The Department of Home Affairs publishes indicative processing times based on recently decided applications. The latest published figures provide a useful general indication, although individual cases can vary.
| Visa Category | Indicative Median Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Skilled Permanent | 8 months |
| Skilled Temporary | 98 days |
| Student | 21 days |
| Visitor | Less than 1 day |
| Working Holiday Maker | 5 days |
| Partner Provisional/Temporary | 23 months |
Important: Processing times are estimates based on recent applications. They are not a guarantee that an individual application will be finalised within the published timeframe.
Processing can be affected by application volumes, document completeness, health and character checks, external verification and the individual circumstances of the applicant.
What These Australia Immigration Changes Mean for Applicants
The latest developments show that Australia’s migration system is becoming increasingly focused on skills, salary compliance, labour-market requirements and immigration integrity.
For Skilled Workers
- Check the latest salary threshold before accepting or relying on an employer-sponsored position.
- Understand whether your occupation falls within the relevant processing priorities.
- Check skills, English, age and points requirements where applicable.
- Prepare complete supporting documents before lodging.
- Choose the visa pathway that matches your circumstances rather than relying on outdated migration information.
For International Students
- Check the current CRICOS status of your intended course and provider.
- Choose a genuine study pathway that matches your educational objectives.
- Understand the current student visa priority arrangements.
- Budget for the increased Student visa application charge.
- Keep your documents and financial evidence properly prepared.
For Families
- Understand whether your chosen family visa is subject to a cap or queue.
- Plan for potentially long processing periods.
- Prepare relationship and supporting documents carefully.
- Check the current requirements before lodging the application.
Planning to Move to Australia?
Get your profile assessed and understand which migration pathway may be suitable for your circumstances.
Check Your EligibilityFrequently Asked Questions About Australia Immigration Changes 2026
Click on any question below to view the answer.
What are the major Australia Immigration Changes 2026?
The major developments include increased visa application charges, updated skilled migration salary thresholds, changes to skilled visa processing priorities, the 2026–27 migration planning levels and stronger integrity measures affecting parts of the international education sector.
What is the new Subclass 482 income threshold in 2026?
From 1 July 2026, the Core Skills Income Threshold is AUD 79,423. The Specialist Skills Income Threshold is AUD 146,576.
Did Australian visa fees increase in 2026?
Yes. Visa application charges increased for many visa categories from 1 July 2026. The primary applicant charge for the Student subclass 500 increased from AUD 2,000 to AUD 2,500.
How much is the Subclass 186 visa fee in 2026?
The primary applicant charge for Subclass 186 is AUD 6,140. Additional applicant charges can vary according to age and other applicable rules.
What is Australia’s 2026–27 migration program size?
Australia’s 2026–27 Permanent Migration Program has 185,000 places, consisting of 132,240 skilled places, 52,460 family places and 300 special eligibility places.
Which occupations receive higher skilled visa processing priority?
The current framework gives significant priority to areas including law enforcement and defence, construction, healthcare and teaching, subject to the detailed requirements of the applicable ministerial direction.
Has Australia changed its student visa rules in September 2026?
On 4 September 2026, the government announced cancellation of CRICOS registration for BSB80120 Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning), with the cancellation taking effect on 5 October 2026. The government stated that the decision was connected to significant integrity concerns.
How long does an Australian skilled visa take in 2026?
The latest published median processing time is around 8 months for skilled permanent visas and 98 days for skilled temporary visas. Individual applications may take longer or shorter depending on their circumstances.
Can I still apply for Australia PR in 2026?
Yes. Australia continues to offer several permanent migration pathways, including employer-sponsored, skilled independent, state or territory nominated, regional and other skilled pathways. Eligibility depends on the requirements of the specific visa.
Are Australia PR points requirements changing in 2026?
The points test continues to depend on factors such as age, English ability, skilled employment, qualifications and other eligible factors. Applicants should assess their points against the requirements of the specific visa subclass and current legislation.
Is Australia still accepting international students in 2026?
Yes. Australia continues to accept international students, but student visa applicants must satisfy the applicable visa requirements and should carefully consider their course, provider and genuine study plans.
Need Help With Your Australia Visa?
Make an informed decision about your Australian migration pathway with a proper eligibility assessment.
Contact Mediterranean International VisaFinal Takeaway
The latest Australia Immigration Changes 2026 highlight a clear focus on skilled migration, salary compliance, processing priorities and greater integrity across the international education sector.
Higher salary thresholds, increased visa charges, updated skilled visa priorities and stricter education controls mean applicants should avoid relying on outdated information.
Whether you are planning Australia PR, an employer-sponsored visa, a Student visa or family migration, understanding the current requirements before lodging can help you prepare a stronger and more informed application.
Australia Immigration Changes 2026: 7 Powerful Updates You Must Know
Australia Immigration Changes 2026 are creating important changes for skilled workers, international students, employers and families. From higher visa application charges and updated salary thresholds to new skilled visa processing priorities and tighter controls in international education, applicants need to understand the latest requirements before making important migration decisions.
This September 2026 update brings together the key changes affecting Australia’s immigration system and explains what they could mean for people planning to work, study, settle or reunite with family in Australia.
In This Article
1. New Skilled Visa Salary Thresholds From 1 July 2026
One of the most important Australia Immigration Changes 2026 is the increase in income thresholds for several skilled and employer-sponsored visa pathways.
The updated thresholds took effect from 1 July 2026 and are particularly relevant to employers sponsoring overseas workers and applicants planning employer-sponsored migration.
| Income Threshold | 2026–27 Amount | Relevant Pathways |
|---|---|---|
| Core Skills Income Threshold | AUD 79,423 | Relevant employer-sponsored pathways, including the Subclass 482 Core Skills stream |
| Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold | AUD 79,423 | Applicable temporary and regional skilled pathways |
| Specialist Skills Income Threshold | AUD 146,576 | Subclass 482 Specialist Skills stream |
Why Are These Salary Thresholds Important?
The salary threshold is an important part of assessing whether an employer-sponsored position meets the applicable migration requirements.
- Employers need to consider the applicable income threshold when sponsoring skilled workers.
- Applicants should check whether the proposed salary satisfies the relevant requirements.
- Salary compliance can be important when assessing employer-sponsored visa options.
- The correct threshold depends on the visa stream and circumstances of the nomination.
Important: Applicants should not rely on older salary figures published before 1 July 2026. The applicable threshold should be checked against the current rules at the time of application.
2. Australia Visa Fees Increased in 2026
Another major development under the Australia Immigration Changes 2026 is the increase in visa application charges from 1 July 2026.
Many visa categories experienced an increase in their first instalment application charge, making it important for applicants to update their migration budget before lodging an application.
| Visa Category | 2026 Fee Information |
|---|---|
| Student Visa – Subclass 500 | Primary applicant base charge increased from AUD 2,000 to AUD 2,500 |
| Subclass 186 | Primary applicant charge is AUD 6,140 |
| Subclass 186 – Additional Applicant 18+ | AUD 3,070 |
| Subclass 186 – Additional Applicant Under 18 | AUD 1,535 |
| Subclass 482 | Primary applicant charge is approximately AUD 4,015 |
The exact amount payable can depend on the visa type, applicant circumstances and applicable charging arrangements. Some applicant groups and visa streams can have different treatment or exemptions.
Planning Tip: Visa applicants should always check the current government application charge before lodging because visa fees can change independently of other eligibility requirements.
3. Skilled Visa Processing Priorities Have Changed
A significant change took effect on 25 July 2026, when Ministerial Direction 119 replaced the previous skilled visa processing direction.
The new direction applies to specified skilled visa applications and establishes the order in which certain applications are prioritised for processing.
Which Areas Receive Higher Priority?
- Law enforcement and defence
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Teaching
The framework also considers factors such as the applicant’s location and the nominated occupation.
This means applicants should look beyond simply asking whether an occupation is eligible for a visa. Processing priority can also influence how an application is handled within the Department’s processing system.
Regional applicants should take note: Previous assumptions about automatic processing priority based solely on regional positions or accredited sponsorship should not be relied upon under the current framework.
4. Australia’s 2026–27 Permanent Migration Program
Australia’s 2026–27 Permanent Migration Program has been set at 185,000 places.
The program continues to place strong emphasis on skilled migration while maintaining a substantial family migration component.
| Migration Stream | 2026–27 Planning Level |
|---|---|
| Skilled | 132,240 |
| Family | 52,460 |
| Special Eligibility | 300 |
| Total | 185,000 |
Skilled Migration Allocation
- Employer Sponsored: approximately 58,040 places
- Skilled Independent: approximately 21,090 places
- State/Territory Nominated: approximately 35,500 places
- Regional: approximately 14,110 places
- Talent and Innovation: approximately 3,500 places
The planning levels demonstrate the continued importance of skilled migration to Australia’s long-term migration strategy.
For skilled applicants: A strong occupation profile can be valuable, but applicants must still meet the specific eligibility requirements of the visa pathway, including skills, English, age, points, nomination or sponsorship requirements where applicable.
5. Important Student Visa and Education Updates
International education continues to be an important part of Australia’s migration and education system. However, the government has also increased its focus on student visa integrity and education-provider compliance.
Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) Registration Cancelled
On 4 September 2026, the Australian Government announced the cancellation of CRICOS registration for BSB80120 Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning).
The change takes effect from 5 October 2026.
From that date, overseas students will not be able to newly enrol in the affected course. Existing students will be able to complete their studies under the announced arrangements.
The government stated that the action followed concerns involving significant and systemic integrity issues, including concerns about non-genuine onshore transfers, visa refusal rates and course non-completion.
What does this mean for students?
Students should carefully assess their course and education provider before making an application. Choosing a genuine study pathway and checking current course registration information are increasingly important parts of student visa planning.
Student Visa Processing Priorities
Student visa applications are processed under Australia’s student visa priority framework.
For offshore student applications, the indicative priority targets are broadly:
- Priority 1: approximately 1–4 weeks
- Priority 2: approximately 5–8 weeks
- Priority 3: approximately 9–12 weeks
These timeframes are indicative and should not be treated as guaranteed processing periods.
6. Family Visa Places and Long Waiting Periods
Family migration remains a significant component of Australia’s permanent migration program.
For 2026–27, the Family stream has 52,460 places.
| Family Category | 2026–27 Places |
|---|---|
| Partner | 41,500 |
| Child | 3,500 |
| Parent | 7,060 |
| Other Family | 400 |
Parent visa categories remain subject to demand, caps and queue arrangements. Applicants in these categories should be prepared for potentially lengthy waiting periods.
Partner visa applicants should also understand that processing can take considerably longer than many temporary skilled visa applications.
7. Current Australia Visa Processing Times in 2026
The Department of Home Affairs publishes indicative processing times based on recently decided applications. The latest published figures provide a useful general indication, although individual cases can vary.
| Visa Category | Indicative Median Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Skilled Permanent | 8 months |
| Skilled Temporary | 98 days |
| Student | 21 days |
| Visitor | Less than 1 day |
| Working Holiday Maker | 5 days |
| Partner Provisional/Temporary | 23 months |
Important: Processing times are estimates based on recent applications. They are not a guarantee that an individual application will be finalised within the published timeframe.
Processing can be affected by application volumes, document completeness, health and character checks, external verification and the individual circumstances of the applicant.
What These Australia Immigration Changes Mean for Applicants
The latest developments show that Australia’s migration system is becoming increasingly focused on skills, salary compliance, labour-market requirements and immigration integrity.
For Skilled Workers
- Check the latest salary threshold before accepting or relying on an employer-sponsored position.
- Understand whether your occupation falls within the relevant processing priorities.
- Check skills, English, age and points requirements where applicable.
- Prepare complete supporting documents before lodging.
- Choose the visa pathway that matches your circumstances rather than relying on outdated migration information.
For International Students
- Check the current CRICOS status of your intended course and provider.
- Choose a genuine study pathway that matches your educational objectives.
- Understand the current student visa priority arrangements.
- Budget for the increased Student visa application charge.
- Keep your documents and financial evidence properly prepared.
For Families
- Understand whether your chosen family visa is subject to a cap or queue.
- Plan for potentially long processing periods.
- Prepare relationship and supporting documents carefully.
- Check the current requirements before lodging the application.
Planning to Move to Australia?
Get your profile assessed and understand which migration pathway may be suitable for your circumstances.
Check Your EligibilityFrequently Asked Questions About Australia Immigration Changes 2026
Click on any question below to view the answer.
What are the major Australia Immigration Changes 2026?
The major developments include increased visa application charges, updated skilled migration salary thresholds, changes to skilled visa processing priorities, the 2026–27 migration planning levels and stronger integrity measures affecting parts of the international education sector.
What is the new Subclass 482 income threshold in 2026?
From 1 July 2026, the Core Skills Income Threshold is AUD 79,423. The Specialist Skills Income Threshold is AUD 146,576.
Did Australian visa fees increase in 2026?
Yes. Visa application charges increased for many visa categories from 1 July 2026. The primary applicant charge for the Student subclass 500 increased from AUD 2,000 to AUD 2,500.
How much is the Subclass 186 visa fee in 2026?
The primary applicant charge for Subclass 186 is AUD 6,140. Additional applicant charges can vary according to age and other applicable rules.
What is Australia’s 2026–27 migration program size?
Australia’s 2026–27 Permanent Migration Program has 185,000 places, consisting of 132,240 skilled places, 52,460 family places and 300 special eligibility places.
Which occupations receive higher skilled visa processing priority?
The current framework gives significant priority to areas including law enforcement and defence, construction, healthcare and teaching, subject to the detailed requirements of the applicable ministerial direction.
Has Australia changed its student visa rules in September 2026?
On 4 September 2026, the government announced cancellation of CRICOS registration for BSB80120 Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning), with the cancellation taking effect on 5 October 2026. The government stated that the decision was connected to significant integrity concerns.
How long does an Australian skilled visa take in 2026?
The latest published median processing time is around 8 months for skilled permanent visas and 98 days for skilled temporary visas. Individual applications may take longer or shorter depending on their circumstances.
Can I still apply for Australia PR in 2026?
Yes. Australia continues to offer several permanent migration pathways, including employer-sponsored, skilled independent, state or territory nominated, regional and other skilled pathways. Eligibility depends on the requirements of the specific visa.
Are Australia PR points requirements changing in 2026?
The points test continues to depend on factors such as age, English ability, skilled employment, qualifications and other eligible factors. Applicants should assess their points against the requirements of the specific visa subclass and current legislation.
Is Australia still accepting international students in 2026?
Yes. Australia continues to accept international students, but student visa applicants must satisfy the applicable visa requirements and should carefully consider their course, provider and genuine study plans.
Need Help With Your Australia Visa?
Make an informed decision about your Australian migration pathway with a proper eligibility assessment.
Contact Mediterranean International VisaFinal Takeaway
The latest Australia Immigration Changes 2026 highlight a clear focus on skilled migration, salary compliance, processing priorities and greater integrity across the international education sector.
Higher salary thresholds, increased visa charges, updated skilled visa priorities and stricter education controls mean applicants should avoid relying on outdated information.
Whether you are planning Australia PR, an employer-sponsored visa, a Student visa or family migration, understanding the current requirements before lodging can help you prepare a stronger and more informed application.
