FREE in-person seminar on Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV) in Singapore on 4 March

If you are a high-achieving professional, entrepreneur, or investor based in Singapore, this may be one of your best opportunities to migrate to Australia.

On 4 March 2026, Chris Johnston, Australian Immigration Lawyer and founder of Work Visa Lawyers, will be in Singapore to host a free in-person seminar on Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV).

This is a one-night-only event, with limited seats, and registration is required.

What is the National Innovation Visa?

The National Innovation Visa (NIV) is an Australian direct permanent residency visa designed for exceptional candidates with:

• Exceptional professional achievements
• International recognition
• Proven innovation, investment, research, or business impact

The NIV has replaced the Global Talent Visa and is one of the most powerful PR pathways to Australia.

Event Details

National Innovation Visa (NIV) – Singapore Free Seminar

📍 Singapore
📅 4 March 2026
🕖 6:30 pm (Registration) | 7:00 pm (Event starts)
📍 Location: Pan Pacific Singapore, Marina Square
🎟 FREE registration through the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/australias-national-innovation-visa-niv-free-seminar-tickets-1983328944262

Presenter:
Chris Johnston, Australian Immigration Lawyer

• 20 years’ experience in Australian migration law
• Has assisted many Global Talent and National Innovation visa applicants to move to Australia

One night only. Once seats are filled, registrations will close.

Who should attend?

This seminar is designed for:

• Entrepreneurs and startup founders
• Investors, angel investors, and innovative investors
• High-performing professionals in:

Critical technologies – including artificial intelligence technology, cyber security technology, quantum technology, advanced information and communication technology, robotics and autonomous systems.

Health industries – including biotechnology, genomics, pharmaceuticals and precision medicine, artificial intelligence in health, and medical science manufacturing for therapeutic products.

Renewables and low emission technologies – including renewable energy generation, clean energy technology, renewable hydrogen, emissions reduction and carbon storage, and processing and refining of critical minerals.

Financial Services and FinTech – including blockchain engineering, cloud technologies, FinTech cyber and data security, financial data science and analysis, innovations in application programming, and software engineering.

Check out our Global Talent client reviews on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnPnFGrV8OM&list=PL1jMey0Gj7LnkMvK8032evhfp8i2-sXlz

Why you should not miss this seminar

• Learn how the National Innovation Visa really works in practice
• Understand whether the NIV is realistic for your profile
• Rare opportunity for a face-to-face session with an Australian immigration lawyer
• Chris Johnston will be in Singapore for a very limited time

This seminar is designed to help you avoid costly mistakes and assess your options before you act.

What you will learn

During the session, Chris will cover:

• What the National Innovation Visa is (and is not)
• Who is actually getting invited
• Common mistakes that can kill an application
• How nominations and Expressions of Interest (EOIs) work
• Lessons learned from the Global Talent Visa
• Alternative Australian PR pathways if the NIV is not suitable

Why people living in Singapore are moving to Australia

Singapore is widely recognised as Asia’s leading hub for innovation, finance, and global business. It attracts thousands of high‑performing professionals, founders, researchers, and senior executives from around the world.

However, many of these highly skilled individuals are now choosing to relocate to Australia primarily because Australia offers long‑term stability, a clearer pathway to permanent residency and citizenship, and greater security for their families.

In contrast, Singapore’s immigration framework does not guarantee permanent residency, even for exceptional talent. Professionals can live and work in Singapore for many years without ever securing long‑term status, creating uncertainty about their future.

Australia, on the other hand, provides a more predictable and accessible route to permanent residency, making it an appealing alternative for those who want stability, family security, and long‑term settlement options.

Beyond visa certainty and long-term stability, many professionals living in Singapore are also drawn to Australia’s lifestyle. Australia offers a more relaxed pace of life, access to open spaces, beaches and nature, and a strong emphasis on work–life balance.

Families are attracted to the outdoor culture, reputable education system and child-friendly environment, while professionals value the opportunity to build their careers without sacrificing personal wellbeing. For many, Australia represents not just a migration outcome, but a lifestyle upgrade.

Another major reason for the shift is access to healthcare. Australia offers comprehensive medical services through both public and private hospitals—benefits that non‑citizens in Singapore typically cannot access in the same way.

Australia is also one of the most multicultural nations in the world, home to millions of people from over 200 countries. Its strong focus on inclusivity, diversity, and community support helps newcomers feel welcomed and integrated from the start.

Who is Chris Johnston?

Chris Johnston is an Australian Immigration Lawyer with 20 years of experience in migration law. He founded Work Visa Lawyers in 2011 and has helped thousands of individuals and businesses secure Australian visas, including skilled, employer-sponsored, partner, business, global talent, and innovation visas.

He is a leading educator in Australian migration law, delivering CPD-accredited training for the Migration Institute of Australia and the Law Society of South Australia, and currently serves as the South Australia President of the Migration Institute of Australia.

Chris is also one of Australia’s original immigration content creators, with 180,000+ followers across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, known for explaining complex migration law in a clear and practical way.

Free registration – limited seats

This event is free, but places are strictly limited and expected to fill quickly.

👉 Register now to avoid missing out.

Disclaimer

This seminar provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Many people planning their future in Australia are asking the same question:

Will I ever get permanent residency in Australia? 

If you are studying, working, or living in Australia on a temporary visa, you may be wondering whether permanent residency is still realistic in 2026 — or whether the system has moved out of reach.

This article looks at the real migration opportunities for 2026, using current data and practical strategies. We also address difficult but important topics, including:

• The lack of invitations for the 189 visa, 190 visa, and 491 visa

• Visa cancellations and stricter checks

• How major events, such as the Bondi Beach attack, may influence immigration processing

Our goal is to help you make smarter, more realistic decisions about your migration pathway.

How the Recent Bondi Beach Attack Is Affecting Australian Immigration Processing

We would like to begin by expressing our sincere condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic Bondi Beach attack in December.

For people living in Australia on temporary visas, this event may have broader implications. We expect to see:

• Stricter background and character checks

• Increased visa cancellations

• Greater scrutiny across visa applications

We will address this topic in more detail in a separate article, as it deserves careful and sensitive discussion.

Are 189, 190 and 491 Visas Still Realistic in 2026?

The reduction in places for the 190 and 491 visas has caused many people to ask whether Australia is still achievable.

The answer is yes — for some people. However, the strategy has changed.

For many years, points-tested visas such as the 189 visa, 190 visa, and 491 visa were the primary goal for skilled migrants, with employer sponsorship seen as a second option. That is no longer the case.

Employer-Sponsored Visas: The Strongest Pathway in 2026

If your goal is Australian permanent residency, employer-sponsored visas are now the strongest and most realistic options in 2026.

These include:

• 482 Skills in Demand visa

• 186 Employer Nomination Scheme

• 494 Regional Employer Sponsored visa

• DAMA and Labour Agreements

Australian businesses are facing genuine skills shortages across multiple sectors and are actively seeking reliable workers. As a result, we have seen:

• A significant increase in employer-sponsored visas

• A sharp reduction in state nomination places, including the 190 visa and 491 visa

Visas such as the 482 visa provide a pathway from temporary work to permanent residency through the 186 visa and many migrants are using this pathway as the first option.

Book an Appointment

Why State Nomination Is More Competitive Than Ever

Many people ask whether they should target states like Western Australia or Tasmania, which often appear to have more flexible criteria.

However, the reality is this:

• Tasmania has 1,850 nomination places in 2025-26 financial year

• Western Australia has 3,400 places — with 3,355 already issued 

• Combined, that is only 5,250 nominations

You are not competing against hundreds of applicants — you are competing against hundreds of thousands of skilled migrants who already have:

• Skills assessments

• English test results

• Work experience

• Active EOIs

Most applicants, no matter how qualified, will never receive an invitation.

This does not mean the General Skills Migration (GSM) program is dead — but it is highly competitive. 

Which Occupations Are Still Receiving Invitations?

Looking at invitation results from 2025, one thing is clear: Australia is inviting only where there is genuine demand.

If you are under 45 and your occupation is clearly in shortage, it may still be worth:

• Obtaining a skills assessment

• Improving your English score

• Positioning your EOI strategically

High-Demand Jobs in Australia for Skilled Migration

Occupations currently receiving invitations include:

• Construction trades (bricklayers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, roofers)

• Construction managers

• Healthcare professionals

• Secondary school teachers

When GSM Is Not the Best Migration Pathway

Some occupations remain on the skilled lists but are not receiving invitations, including:

• Marketing specialists

• Accountants

• Cooks

• Enrolled nurses

• Software engineers

• Contract administrators

• Niche roles such as artistic directors, copywriters, and dog handlers

In these cases, GSM visas may not be your strongest pathway.

Alternative Visa Options to Consider

Instead, you should consider:

• Employer-sponsored visas

• Alternative pathways, such as partner visas if you have an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident partner

We understand that employer sponsorship is not easy — especially if you are offshore — but thousands of applicants succeed each year, and you may be one of them.

Check our blog, “How to Find a Sponsor,” for helpful tips on how to find an Australian business to sponsor you.

Queensland National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) – 2026 Update

Queensland has now opened nominations for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858).

This visa offers direct permanent residency and targets exceptionally talented individuals, including:

• Entrepreneurs

• Innovative investors

• Researchers

• Athletes

• Creatives

Permanent Residency Pathway for Individuals: 

• Up to the age of 55, or higher in exceptional cases 
• High-value entrepreneurs who commit AUD $1 million to new ventures in Queensland 
• Innovative investors who invest AUD $5 million in Queensland’s innovation ecosystem

This is one of the strongest permanent residency pathways currently available.

 
We have published a detailed guide explaining the Queensland NIV nomination process.

 
We also offer a free NIV assessment, where our team can check your eligibility.

Adelaide University Opens: What This Means for Students

Following the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, Adelaide University has officially opened enrolments, becoming the largest university in Australia.

This will bring:

• More international students

• Increased investment in South Australia

However, students must have a clear migration strategy before enrolling and applying for a student visa, especially if permanent residency is part of the long-term plan.

Check our blog “Best 8 courses to study in Australia to get PR”. 

Student Visa Changes for India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Bhutan

Applicants from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Bhutan may face increased scrutiny, as Australia has updated student visa assessment levels to strengthen integrity measures.

These changes may have been triggered by reports of widespread fraudulent degree practices. As a result, it is more important than ever for students to submit strong, well-documented applications.

Student Visa Expiry Reminder: Avoid Becoming Unlawful

We are seeing a large number of student visas expiring in March, many around the 15th.

Every year, people make the same mistake — waiting too long.

If your visa is expiring soon:

• Do not wait until the last minute

• Understand your next visa options early

• Lodge a valid application before expiry

Options may include course extensions, graduate visas, or transitions to skilled visas — but timing is critical.

How We Can Help You Plan Your Migration Strategy for Australia in 2026 

Migration to Australia in 2026 is still possible — but it requires realistic expectations, the right strategy, and early planning.

At Work Visa Lawyers, we are widely regarded as one of the best migration lawyers and one of the best registered migration agents in Adelaide, with extensive experience across skilled, employer-sponsored, and permanent residency pathways.

If you would like tailored advice based on your individual circumstances, please book an appointment and talk to our team.

Book an Appointment

The Harsh Truth About the 189, 190 & 491 Visas (No One Tells You This)

Every year, thousands of hopeful migrants invest in skills assessments, English exams, NAATI credentials, and multiple Expression of Interest (EOI) submissions with dreams of securing the 189, 190 or 491 visas.

But here’s the harsh reality: most applicants will never receive an invitation.

Despite meeting the minimum points threshold of 65, many discover (often too late) that competition is fierce, quotas are limited, and not all occupations are treated equally.

How the 189, 190 & 491 Visas Work

Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is points-based and relies on SkillSelect invitations from the Department of Home Affairs.

Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

• Permanent visa with no sponsorship or nomination required.
• Must receive an invitation from SkillSelect to apply.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

• Permanent visa requiring state or territory nomination.
• Must be invited after meeting the requirements of both the state and Federal Government.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

• A 5-year provisional visa with a pathway to permanent residency.
• Requires state or territory nomination.

Meeting the points threshold (currently 65) only gets you into the EOI pool — not into the invitation.

Why Many Skilled Migrants Are Missing Out

1. State and Territory Nomination Numbers Are Limited

Each state and territory has a limited quota each financial year. Once these places fill up, invitations stop, even for highly qualified applicants.

2. Occupation Demand Varies Drastically

Some occupations are in high demand, while others are oversubscribed or not prioritised, regardless of applicant experience or qualifications.

3. The Points Test Is Competitive

Although 65 points is the minimum, invitations typically go to applicants with 85–95+ points, depending on occupation.

Who Gets Invited in 2025?

Based on the latest 2025 SkillSelect data:

In-Demand Occupations (More Likely to Receive Invitations)

• Carpenters and other construction trades – invited with as low as 65 points.
• Nurses and health professionals – generally invited with 75+ points.
• Teachers – prioritised in some states.

Highly Competitive or Low-Invitation Occupations

• Accountants
• Restaurant Managers
• Marketing Specialists
• Enrolled Nurses
• Facilities Managers

Despite strong skills, many in these professions are not receiving invitations due to high competition and limited places.

Real Invitation Examples (2025 Data)

• Architects received 189 invitations with 90 points.
• Carpenters received 189 invitations with 65 points.
• Marketing Specialists in South Australia received 491 invitations with 105 points.
• No invitations were issued for Accountants or Chefs in recent 189 rounds.

These examples show how invitation outcomes heavily depend on your occupation and points score.

Before You Invest: What You Must Know

Before spending thousands on:

• Skills assessments
• NAATI testing
• English exams
• Multiple EOIs

You should first:
✅ Confirm your realistic chances of receiving an invitation.
✅ Understand state and occupation trends.
✅ Explore alternative visa options that may better suit your profile.

A single consultation can save you from months of unnecessary effort and investment.

Alternative Pathways to Permanent Residency

Employer-Sponsored Visas

If your occupation has low invitation chances, employer sponsorship might be a better option:

• Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand)
• Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
• Designed Area Migration Agreement (DAMA)

These options can offer a more direct route to working and settling in Australia, especially for occupations not getting invited under GSM.

Yes, finding an eligible sponsor can be challenging, but it’s often more realistic than waiting endlessly for an EOI invitation that may never come.

Check our blog How to find a sponsor. 

Key Takeaways for Skilled Migrants

• Don’t assume points alone are enough.
• Check occupation trends and demand across different states.
• Get professional advice early to avoid wasted investment.
• Consider employer sponsorship as a viable alternative.
• Stay updated on invitation rounds and policy changes.

Need Help Understanding Your Options?

At Work Visa Lawyers, we provide honest, realistic advice about your best visa strategy, based on the latest data, policy changes and real-world outcomes.

Don't risk your future by relying on guesswork. Book a consultation and take control of your migration journey with clarity and confidence.

Book an Appointment 

Entrepreneurs $1 Million or Investors $5 Million in Queensland for PR – National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

Complete the free NIV assessment

Queensland has officially opened its National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) nomination program, a direct permanent residency pathway for:

• high-value entrepreneurs who commit AUD $1 million to new ventures in Queensland

• innovative investors who invest AUD $5 million in Queensland’s innovation ecosystem

The NIV has attractive features:

• a straight-to-permanent residency visa

• no skills assessment or points test

• age limit up to 55 or higher for those who offer exceptional benefits

Below is a simple and clear overview of what Queensland is offering, who may be eligible, and how the nomination process works.

What Is the National Innovation Visa (NIV)?

The National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is designed for exceptionally talented individuals who can contribute to Australia’s economy, innovation, and global competitiveness, including entrepreneurs and innovative investors.

Queensland has now released specific nomination criteria for entrepreneurs and innovative investors, along with a Registration of Interest (ROI) process.

There are 4,300 NIV places available nationally until 30 June 2026, although Queensland’s state nominations will be a smaller subset of this total.

We provide clear guidance on the National Innovation Visa on our website, and you can also complete our FREE online eligibility assessment to see if this pathway may be right for you.

Why This Is Important for Queensland

This program is expected to deliver major economic benefits to the state.

For example, if Queensland were to nominate just 200 innovative investors, this could inject at least $1 billion directly into Queensland’s innovation economy, with further job creation and long-term economic growth through business expansion and commercialisation.

Queensland NIV Nomination for Entrepreneurs

Queensland is seeking established or emerging entrepreneurs who are ready to commercialise or expand an innovative product or service in Queensland.

Key eligibility requirements

To be considered for Queensland nomination as an entrepreneur, you must:

What evidence may be required

If Queensland contacts you after submitting your ROI, you may need to provide evidence such as:

Examples of strong supporting evidence include

Queensland NIV Nomination for Innovative Investors

Queensland is also nominating innovative investors who have a strong track record of supporting high-growth, innovative ventures.

Key eligibility requirements

To be considered as an innovative investor, you must:

Accepted investment structures may include

What evidence may be required

If invited to proceed, Queensland may request evidence such as:

Candidates with experience in Tier One or Tier Two high-growth priority sectors will be highly regarded.

How the Queensland Nomination Process Works

To seek Queensland Government nomination, you must:

Nomination is competitive and discretionary, and not all eligible candidates will receive an invitation.

Please note that securing Queensland nomination does not guarantee an invitation for all the grant of National Innovation Visa. 

We can assist you with submitting a Registration of Interest (ROI), the NIV Expression of Interest (EOI) and visa application if you are invited.

Entrepreneurs and investors, the wait is over!

Many were left disappointed after the Australian Government closed the subclass 188 Business Innovation and Investment visa on 1 July 2024.

This left investors with very limited options to obtain permanent residency in Australia.

Complete Our Free NIV Assessment

The National Innovation Visa criteria, as outlined in Direction 112, are complex, and candidates must meet the requirements set out by both the Department of Home Affairs and the Queensland Government.

Strong evidence, positioning, and alignment with Queensland’s priorities are critical.

We have detailed guidance on the National Innovation Visa available on our website, and you can also complete our FREE online eligibility assessment to check whether this pathway may be suitable for you.

If you are an entrepreneur or investor considering Queensland nomination, early planning is essential. 

For tailored advice, we recommend speaking with an experienced immigration lawyer before submitting your ROI.

Please book an appointment with our team. For earlier availability, please call our office or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Book an Appointment

Sources: 

NIV Queensland Website: https://www.tiq.qld.gov.au/invest/national-innovation-visa

Department of Home Affairs NIV: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858

NIV Sectors: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/visas-for-innovation/national-innovation-visa

482 Visa Australia: Top 5 Questions Answered  

The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa (formerly the TSS 482 Visa) is one of the most common pathways for skilled workers to live and work in Australia. It allows approved employers to sponsor overseas workers for temporary positions when they can’t find suitable Australian candidates.

At Work Visa Lawyers, we receive many questions about the 482 work visa, from requirements and fees to how it can lead to permanent residency. 

Here, we answer the five most common questions about the 482 Visa.

What is the 482 Skills in Demand Visa?

The 482 Visa is an employer-sponsored visa that lets skilled workers come to Australia and work for an approved employer. 
One of the main benefits of this visa is that it can lead to Permanent Residency (PR) through the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa after two years with the sponsoring employer.

There’s no age limit to apply for the 482 visa. However, to transition to PR through the 186 visa in the Temporary Residence Transition stream, you must generally:

• Be under 45 years old, and

• Have held a 482 visa for at least two years

Some exemptions may allow applicants over 45 to still apply.

To qualify for the SID 482 visa, your occupation must be on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). You can check the full list on our website.

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer

1. Do I need a skills assessment for a 482 visa?

This depends on your occupation.

• For most professional or degree-level occupations, a skills assessment is not required.

• However, for trade occupations, a skills assessment is often mandatory for applicants from certain countries listed on the TRA 482 list.

• If you hold an Australian trade qualification, a skills assessment is not needed.

Example: If you’re a chef from India, you usually need a skills assessment — unless you studied your qualification in Australia.

Always check the Department of Home Affairs website or seek advice from a migration professional.

2. Can I, as the applicant, pay all the fees for the 482 visa?

Not all of them. 

By law, the employer must pay: 

• The Standard Business Sponsorship fee (AUD $420)

• The Nomination fee (AUD $330)

• The Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy, ranging from AUD $1,200 to $1,800 per year, depending on the business turnover.

The visa application charge can be paid by either the applicant or the employer. 

The currently fees for the 482 visa are: 

• Main applicant: AUD 3,210

• Additional applicant 18 and over: AUD 3,210

• Additional applicant under 18: AUD 808

Be cautious — employers cannot ask you to pay sponsorship or nomination fees. This is a serious breach of Australian migration law under section 245AR of the Migration Act.

If a migration lawyer or registered agent assists with your visa, the employer must pay their professional fees for the sponsorship and nomination stages.

3. How much work experience do I need?

You generally need at least one year of relevant, full-time work experience in your nominated occupation within the last five years.

Part-time or casual work can count if it’s equivalent to one year of full-time experience. 
Example: Two years of part-time work equals one year of full-time work.

This requirement ensures you have the practical experience to perform the role you’re being sponsored for.

4. Can I bring my family on the 482 visa?

Yes! You can include your spouse or partner and dependent children as secondary applicants.

They can:

• Work for any employer, in any occupation, with no work hour limits

• Study in Australia (note: some states may charge school fees for children)

This makes the 482 visa a flexible option for families looking to settle in Australia together.

5. How can I find a sponsor?

This is one of the most common questions we receive. 
Since the 482 is an employer-sponsored visa, you must find an employer willing to sponsor you.

Finding a sponsor takes strategy, preparation, and persistence. 
Here are some tips:

• Understand your visa options and eligibility

• Prepare a strong professional profile (CV, LinkedIn, English test, etc.)

• Target approved sponsors (those registered as Standard Business Sponsors or holding Labour Agreements)

• Build a strong Network 

• Look for opportunities in regional areas, where demand is often higher

We don’t assist in finding sponsors, but we have useful resources to help you: 

Blog: How to Find an Employer Sponsor in Australia 
YouTube Video: Tips on Finding a Sponsor

The Subclass 482 Visa remains one of the best options for skilled professionals who want to work in Australia and it can also be a stepping stone to Permanent Residency through the 186 Visa.

If you’d like personalised advice, book a consultation with our team. 
We’re an experienced, multilingual group of immigration lawyers and registered migration agents, based in Adelaide, South Australia, helping clients from all over the world.

Book an Appointment

Visa Processing Times: How Long Does It Take for Your Australian Visa to Be Approved?

Why do some people get their visas super fast… and others wait forever?

If you are waiting for your Australian visa and wondering, how long is this going to take? — this blog is for you.

In this article, we will explain how processing times work, what can make your application move faster or slower, the latest real-world timeframes for the most common visas, and some tips to avoid delays.

At Work Visa Lawyers, we have been assisting individuals, families, and businesses with their Australian visas since 2011.

What are visa processing times?

Visa processing times are the estimated periods the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) takes to assess and decide a visa application. These times are published on the Department’s website for most visa subclasses and are updated monthly based on recent applications.

Visa processing times in Australia can often be frustrating and confusing — some people are approved within weeks, while others wait months or even years.

How does the Department of Home Affairs show processing times?

The Department usually gives two figures for each visa subclass:

• 50% of applications processed within X months

• 90% of applications processed within Y months

For example, for the 190 visa in September 2025:

• 50% of applications were processed within 17 months

• 90% of applications were processed within 25 months

This means that half of the applications took up to 17 months, while only 10% took longer than 25 months. This gives you an idea of standard wait times (50%) compared to longer delays (90%).

Does the type of visa affect processing times?

Yes. Some visas are fast, while others are extremely slow.

• At one extreme, Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601 visitor visas for certain passports can be decided within minutes, usually within a day.

• In the middle, many skilled visas such as the 189, 190, and 186  can take anywhere from several months to two years.

• The slowest processing times are for Parent visas. For new applications lodged today:

• The Contributory Parent Visa currently has an expected processing time of 14 years, even though it requires a contribution of AUD $48,640 per parent to speed up the process.

• The Non-Contributory Parent Visa has a staggering processing time of 31 years. Sadly, many applicants may not live long enough to see these visas granted.

What factors can affect processing times?

Processing times depend on many factors, including:

• Completeness of your application – Missing documents will slow things down, as the DHA may request additional information. While receiving a request is better than a refusal, it still delays the process.

• Security and character checks – Most visas, except short visitor visas, require police clearances. Failing to provide them causes delays, but bigger delays occur if you have convictions. These cases are referred to the Visa Applicant Character Consideration Unit (VACCU), and may take 1–5 additional years.

• Health requirements – Many visas require medical checks. If there are concerns, the DHA may request further tests, which can significantly delay the process. This area is controversial, as many consider the health rules discriminatory.

• Visa caps and quotas – Some visas, like Parent visas, have low quotas but high demand. This is the main reason processing times can stretch into decades.

• Government policy priorities – At times, certain occupations or visa subclasses are processed faster based on government priorities.

Extra delays due to expired health and character checks

Another common frustration is when health or character checks expire while waiting.

• Health checks are valid for 12 months. Sometimes the DHA accepts older checks at their discretion, but often they require new ones, adding extra costs and delays.

• Character checks (police clearances) also expire and may need to be repeated, creating further delays.

Priority processing

Some applications are prioritised over others. These include:

• Critical skills or shortage occupations

• Government-endorsed or regional employer sponsorships

• Urgent humanitarian or compassionate cases

According to Ministerial Direction 105, skilled visas are processed in the following order of priority:

1. Employer-sponsored visas (482, 186, 494) for occupations in designated regional areas

2. Healthcare or teaching occupations

3. Employer-sponsored visas where the sponsor has Accredited Status

4. Permanent and provisional visa subclasses that count towards the migration program (excluding subclass 188 – Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional))

5. All other visa applications

Applications in lower priority groups may exceed standard processing times.

Tips to avoid visa processing delays

• Submit a complete application with all required documents and certified translations

• Complete medical exams and police checks early, when possible

• Respond quickly to any DHA requests for more information

If you want to know more about Australian immigration, check out our YouTube channel — we already have more than 300 videos, and we post new ones every week.

If you’d like to discuss your situation with an immigration lawyer or migration agent, please book an appointment with our team.

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer 

Sources:

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/global-visa-processing-times

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/visa-processing-priorities

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/visa-processing-priorities/skilled-visa

189 Visa Invitation Round August 2025

After nine months, a new Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) invitation round was held on 21 August 2025. The previous round took place in November 2024.

This round brought positive news for many applicants, with invitations issued across the construction, health, and teaching sectors. Occupations invited included carpenters, painters, engineers, nurses, doctors, and teachers.

At a time when the Australian Government has not yet announced the 2025–26 allocations for the 189, 190, and 491 visas, the August 2025 invitation round came as a welcome news.

We hope the new allocations will be released soon and that state nominations will reopen shortly.

Invitation Round Overview

The Department of Home Affairs released the full list of invited occupations and points.

Key Outcomes:

• 6,887 invitations 
• Invitations were issued across more than 130 occupations
• Construction trades such as carpenters, electricians, and bricklayers were invited at only 65 points
• Health roles were also strong — many doctors and nurses were invited around 80 points
• Education professionals included university lecturers at 85 points and childcare managers at 90 points
• Unfortunately, accountants and chefs did not receive invitations in this round

The Department has indicated that invitation rounds will be held quarterly, with the next expected before December 2025.

Prior Reference: November 2024 Round

The 7 November 2024 invitation round numbers:

• Invitations issued: 15,000
• Points threshold: Ranged from 65 for many trades and general roles, up to 95 for high-demand professions

You can read our blog on the November 2024 189 invitation round for more information.

What You Can Do Now

If you are waiting for an invitation, it’s important to keep your Expression of Interest (EOI) and documents up to date. Make sure that your English test results, skills assessments, and all declarations are current, as outdated information could affect your eligibility.

You should also look for opportunities to maximise your points. This may include claiming partner skills, completing a professional year, or retaking an English test to achieve a higher score. Even a small increase in points can improve your position in SkillSelect.

Finally, consider alternative visa pathways if the subclass 189 visa remains highly competitive and state nomination programs for the 190 and 491 visas are still closed. Employer-sponsored visas such as the 482 visa, 186 visa or 494 visa may offer a more practical route to securing permanent residency in Australia.

Contact us if you need assistance with applying for an Australian visa.

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The Australian immigration program is facing significant uncertainty as we reach mid-August 2025. The Australian Government has not yet released the Migration Planning Levels for 2025/2026, delaying key skilled visa programs and causing stress for many applicants.

In this month’s Australian immigration update, we cover:

• Changes to English test requirements for Australian visas

• An increase in international student enrolments for 2026

• Which state is best for a National Innovation Visa nomination

• Updated visa processing times in Australia

• Delays affecting partner visa applications

At Work Visa Lawyers, we specialise in assisting individuals, families, and employers through the complex Australian visa process. Contact us if you need assistance to apply for an Australian visa.

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No Migration Planning Levels Yet – Impact on Skilled Visas

As of mid-August, the Migration Planning Level for 2025/2026 has not been announced. Without this, states and territories have not opened applications for:

• Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

• Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa

The last Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa invitation round was in November 2024.

Last year, allocations were announced in May. The only other delay of this scale occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic — but no such crisis is affecting us now.

Rather than speculating on the cause of the delay, applicants should prepare to lodge their Expression of Interest (EOI) by ensuring they have:

• A valid skills assessment (within the last 3 years)

• A valid English test result (within the last 3 years)

• Evidence of skilled work experience such as contracts and payslips

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More International Student Places in 2026

The Albanese Government has announced 295,000 international student places for 2026, an increase of 25,000 compared to 2025.

All active international education providers will receive at least the same allocation as this year.

For those planning to study in Australia:

• Choose your course carefully to align with your migration pathway

• Consider the level of study and post-study visa options such as the Subclass 485 Graduate Visa

• Ensure you meet the student visa English requirements

English Test Updates – More Accepted Tests and New Score Requirements

From 7 August 2025, there are now nine accepted English language tests for many Australian visa applications, including three new tests:

• Cambridge C1 Advanced (C1 Advanced)

• CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) – New test

• IELTS Academic, including One Skill Retake (OSR)

• IELTS General Training, including One Skill Retake (OSR)

• LanguageCert Academic – New test 

• Michigan English Test (MET), including Single Section Retake (SSR) – New test

• Occupational English Test (OET)

• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-Based Test)

New minimum score requirements for PTE Superior English:

• Listening: 69

• Reading: 70

• Writing: 85

• Speaking: 88 (this high score in Speaking may be very difficult to achieve)

IELTS has kept the minimum of 8 in each band for Superior English.

New minimum score requirements for PTE Competent English:

• Listening: 47

• Reading: 48

• Writing: 51

• Speaking: 54

IELTS still requires a minimum of 6 in each band for Competent English.

New PTE English requirement for the Graduate Visa

The PTE score needed for the Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is now lower:

• Overall: 55

• Listening: 40

• Reading: 42

• Writing: 41

• Speaking: 39

For IELTS, the minimum remains 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each band.

All these changes take effect from 7 August 2025. 
If you took a test before this date and it’s still valid, your scores would still count.

For the Graduate Visa, test results are valid if taken in the 12 months before the visa application date. For other visas, test results are valid for up to three years.

New Skills in Demand 482 Visa English Requirement 

Changes are also coming from 13 September 2025 for English requirements for the Skills in Demand 482 visa: 

Applications lodged on or after 13 September 2025 will accept Vocational level English at least IELTS 5 in each band or PTE:

• Listening: 33
• Reading: 36
• Writing: 29
• Speaking: 24

We wish all applicants the best of luck in preparing for their English language tests. For certain visas, such as the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa, the English requirements have recently been lowered, making them more accessible.

However, for those seeking additional migration points for visas such as the Subclass 189, Subclass 190, or Subclass 491, the new PTE Superior English-Speaking score requirement of 88 presents a significant challenge.

With nine approved English language test options now available, it is important to select the one that best aligns with your strengths. Ensure that the test you choose is accepted for your intended visa subclass and that it allows you to achieve the maximum score required for Superior English, if that is your objective — as not all tests provide this opportunity.

Best State for National Innovation Visa Nomination

The National Innovation Visa is a direct permanent residency pathway for highly skilled and innovative individuals.

Currently, South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria are accepting nominations.

Our review of the criteria suggests:

• South Australia and New South Wales are generally easier, with transparent requirements focused on demonstrating value to the state.

• Victoria requires a referral from a Victorian Government agency — with no public process — making it more challenging.

If you have strong professional ties or collaboration plans with a state, that’s where you should apply.

We have several videos explaining the National Innovation Visa, as well as a free assessment on our website where we can check your eligibility. 

Updated Visa Processing Times in Australia

Processing times are one of the most discussed aspects of the migration process, and we understand how frustrating it can be when they become longer.

The Department of Home Affairs has recently updated its visa processing times. In the table below, you will find some of the main visa subclasses and the typical timeframes for processing.

Keep in mind that your visa may be finalised earlier than the published timeframe — particularly if your occupation is in high demand. However, it may also take longer if your case is more complex or if there are issues such as inconsistencies in your application or documentation, or health and character concerns.

Delays in Relationship Registration

To lodge a partner visa, many applicants choose to strengthen their application by registering their de facto relationship.

In South Australia, this process usually takes just over 28 days. However, current timeframes have extended to approximately two to three months due to a processing backlog.

One possible explanation for this delay is an increase in partner visa applications, potentially driven by the temporary closure of the skilled visa programs, including the Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491.

Final Advice for Visa Applicants

While we await the Migration Planning Level announcement, skilled visa applicants should use this time to:

• Prepare their skills assessment and English test results

• Gather all required employment and qualification evidence

• Monitor program opening dates closely

• Contact an immigration lawyer or migration agent to discuss their situation

If you need advice on your Australian visa application, contact us for a consultation. Since 2011, we have assisted thousands of individuals and businesses with their migration needs.

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Sources: 

189 Invitation Round: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect/invitation-rounds

English visa requirements: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/english-language

482 visa English requirements: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1343

More Student visas for 2026: https://ministers.education.gov.au/clare/managing-sustainable-international-education-sector

Visa processing times: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/global-visa-processing-times

South Australia National Innovation Visa: https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/national-innovation-visa

New South Wales National Innovation Visa: https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/niv

Victoria National Innovation Visa: https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/migrate/national-innovation-visa

Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV) – Subclass 858 is designed to attract talented entrepreneurs, researchers, and business people from around the world to contribute to the country’s innovation-driven economy.

The NIV is an Australian permanent residency visa for internationally recognised individuals with exceptional talent. If the applicant receives nomination for the NIV from a state or territory, their chances of getting invited for the National Innovation Visa increase.

South Australia and New South Wales have now published their criteria for the National Innovation Visa (NIV) – Subclass 858, previously known as the Global Talent Visa.

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Why State Nomination Can Help You Secure a National Innovation Visa Invitation Faster

If a state or territory nominates you, you will have a better chance of being invited for the National Innovation Visa.

Under Ministerial Direction 112, those nominated by a state receive the second-highest priority. The highest priority is for those considered as global experts and international prize winners, such as Nobel Prize recipients.

The South Australian criteria include being able to demonstrate benefit to the South Australian economy and the ability to create jobs.

National Innovation Visa – South Australia State Nomination Criteria

South Australia is open, meaning you can apply for state nomination.

The South Australian criteria include the opportunity to provide evidence of current employment in South Australia, or a job offer with a salary at or above the Fair Work High Income Threshold (AUD).

The document checklist also includes the option of a support letter from a South Australian State Government agency referring you to submit a National Innovation Visa Registration of Interest (ROI) application.

So, having connections to South Australia is an advantage.

South Australia also rules out some types of investment activities, including cafés and restaurants, consulting firms, franchises, and buying existing businesses as these are not considered as ‘innovative’

South Australia has a Registration of Interest system (ROI). If your application progresses, you will be contacted by South Australia. 

 
Their assessment process will include a panel interview of candidates.

National Innovation Visa – New South Wales State Nomination Criteria

The New South Wales criteria focus strongly on demonstrating benefits to New South Wales.

• For the Entrepreneur Pathway – New South Wales wants "innovative and scalable business ventures with high growth potential for NSW".

• For the Investor Pathway – New South Wales wants "innovative ventures, contributing to their success and the growth of the innovative ecosystem in NSW".

New South Wales will have their own seven-stage Expression of Interest (EOI) process. 
This will include, in stage 4, New South Wales seeking independent expert endorsement.

The New South Wales Government recently gave a presentation where they explained what the NIV is not for:

• Not for passive investment

• Not part of the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)

• Not for vague or unsubstantiated ideas

Practical Considerations

For those seeking state nomination, the NIV will now be a 3-stage process:

1. State Nomination

2. Department of Home Affairs (DHA) Expression of Interest (EOI) – then, if invited

3. Visa application

Which State is Best for NIV Nomination?

The short answer: if you have a proven business track record or a collaboration lined up in a state, then that is the best state for you.

If you don’t have an existing relationship or collaboration with a state, it’s the perfect time to begin making that connection.

Complete our FREE National Innovation Visa assessment, where we can check your eligibility or contact us for more information. 

We will share more updates on the NIV soon, including the nomination allocations for the new financial year once they are  released.

Share this blog if you know someone who is highly talented and who will be a good fit for the National Innovation Visa

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Sources: 

https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/news-events/national-innovation-visa-nominations-open-high-performing-individuals

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/images/PDF/National_Innovation_Visa_Criteria_NSW.pdf

In this blog, we bring you the latest updates and key developments in Australian migration for July 2025.

We also invite you to check out our YouTube channel, where we’ve published over 300 videos and have a community of over 67,000 subscribers.

Our goal has always been to provide useful, reliable information for anyone looking to migrate to Australia. If you're considering applying for an Australian visa or seeking permanent residency, our YouTube channel is a valuable resource filled with free content to help guide you through your journey.

You’ll also find videos on specific topics such as:

• How to find an employer sponsor

• How to calculate your migration points

• What visa options are available if you’re over 45 years old

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Visa Grants

This month, we’ve had some exciting visa news and grants to celebrate, including:

• 482 employer-sponsored visas

• 189 permanent residency visa

• Partner visa

• A Global Talent visa grant

• An invitation for the National Innovation visa in the Critical Technologies Sector

New Financial Year

July marks the start of the 2025–2026 financial year, which runs until 30 June 2026.

We’ve also seen a few key changes this month, such as:

• An increase in visa application fees

• A higher minimum salary requirement for employer-sponsored visas

• Updates in Australia–US relations and how they may affect immigration

• Positive changes to the South Australian DAMA, where PR is now available after just 2 years on a 482 visa (previously 3 years)

There’s one big question that everyone is asking: 

Where are the migration numbers and visa allocations for visas like the 189, 190, 491, the National Innovation Visa, and other visas?

As of now, there’s no official timeline or guidance from the Federal Government.

Last year, the allocation was 185,000 places, and the announcement was made on 14 May 2024. However, this year, the allocations still haven’t been released — and without them, the states and territories cannot reopen for new Expressions of Interest (EOIs).

We’re hoping the announcement comes soon — and as always, we’ll keep you updated as soon as we hear more.

While you are waiting, make sure your English results and Skills Assessment have not expired — if they have, we suggest getting new ones. 

DAMA Updates

South Australia DAMA

Applicants holding a 482 visa through the DAMA can now apply for the 186 Permanent Residency after just 2 years — instead of 3 years as previously required.

This is fantastic news and will no doubt increase interest in the SA DAMA program. The DAMA program allows applicants up to 55 years old to get PR in Australia.

There are also concessions on salary, with a 10% reduction to the TSMIT, as well as English and work experience concessions.

The South Australia DAMA was also extended until 30 June 2026.

There are almost 400 occupations, including truck drivers, chefs, winery workers, child care, aged care and disability support workers, hospitality workers, and much more.

We hope the other states make the same change soon.

Please check our detailed video on our YouTube channel explaining the SA DAMA or check our South Australia DAMA page. 

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Top 10 Occupations for DAMA – from Vetassess

Vetassess has released the 10 most common DAMA occupations that apply for skills assessment. The occupations are:

• Truck Driver

• Aged or Disabled Carer

• Retail Supervisor

• Waiter

• Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator

• Fruit Farm Worker

• Barista

• Accounts Clerk

• Café or Restaurant Supervisor

• Forklift Driver

Far North Queensland DAMA

VETASSESS has been confirmed as the Skills Assessing Authority for many DAMA occupations, including:

• Beef Cattle Farm Worker

• Pharmacy Sales Assistant

• Swimming Pool Technician

• Taxi Driver

• And many other occupations

Massive Rise in People from the US Wanting to Move to Australia

An increasing number of Australians are returning home from the US, leaving high-paying tech and science jobs due to job insecurity, burnout, and cuts under Donald Trump’s administration — particularly to DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) and science funding.

At the same time, American professionals — especially in software engineering, data, and product roles — are actively seeking work in Australia, drawn by its lifestyle and more stable work environment.

Recruiters report a 350% increase in US applicants this year, with some candidates willing to accept pay cuts of up to $600,000.

We’ve never had so many people from the US looking to move to Australia — either skilled individuals or Australian citizens partnered with US citizens who are now looking to relocate from the US.

Key reasons for the exodus include:

• Mass layoffs in US tech companies

• Trump-era cuts to DEI and science agencies

• Harsh work culture and fears over AI replacing jobs

• Tougher US immigration policies

If you need assistance to apply for an Australian visa or to discuss your visa options, please book an appointment with one of our lawyer or registered migration agents. 

Rise in the Income Threshold

• The Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) and the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) increased from $73,150 to $76,515. This applies to the 482, 186, and 494 visas.

• The Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) increased from $135,000 to $141,210, applying to the Specialist Skills stream of the Skills in Demand 482 visa.

• The High-Income Threshold increased from $175,000 to $183,100. 
  This threshold is one of the factors that may be used to assess the applicant's exceptional and outstanding achievements for the National Innovation Visa program.

Visa Fees Increased

Most visa fees increased by around 3%, while the Student Visa fee had a significant increase of 25%, from $1,600 to $2,000. 
 
Appeals fees also increased by approximately 3%.

National Innovation Visa - South Australia State Nomination is open

Registrations of Interest (ROI) for South Australian nomination under the Subclass 858 National Innovation Visa are now open. 
Nomination is available to applicants both in Australia and offshore.

We offer a free National Innovation Visa eligibility assessment to help you find out if you qualify.

Kanye West’s Visa Cancelled

The Department of Home Affairs recently cancelled Kanye West’s Australian visa.

The reason for the cancellation is that the American rapper released a song called Heil Hitler — referencing Hitler and promoting Nazism.

West is currently married to Bianca Censori, an Australian citizen from Melbourne. 
So, the visa is likely to have been a visitor visa, allowing him to visit his wife’s family in Australia.

There are powers to cancel visas under the Migration Act, including s116(1)(e) and s501.

We predicted this might happen to Kanye West — back in 2022 in an article we published in relation to the cancellation of tennis superstar Djokovic’s visa.

If you hold an Australian visa and have social media — be careful what you post on it. 

Climate Change Visa for Tuvalu

Nearly one-third of Tuvalu's population — a country island located in the Pacific Ocean — has applied for a new climate visa to live in Australia, as rising sea levels threaten the island nation.

Under a groundbreaking agreement, Australia is offering 280 visas per year to Tuvalu citizens. Over 3,000 people have already entered the ballot.

Scientists warn Tuvalu may become uninhabitable within 80 years, with two of its nine atolls already mostly submerged.

Those were the main updates in Australian immigration for July 2025.

If you need any assistance in applying for an Australian visa, please book an appointment to discuss your situation. We have been helping individuals and businesses since 2011 to obtain Australian visas, permanent residency, and citizenship.

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