Is There Uncontrolled Mass Migration in Australia?

Australia’s migration system is often described as “out of control”, but does that reflect reality?

In this article, we unpack how the migration system actually works, the current discussions around skilled migration, and what the potential impacts could be if major changes are introduced.

Is Australia’s Migration System Controlled?

Australia’s migration program is a structured and planned system, with set annual allocations determined by the Government. The current immigration system is highly controlled, with exact quotas announced and published each year on the Department of Home Affairs website.

For the 2025–2026 financial year, the permanent migration program is set at 185,000 places, a figure that is broadly consistent throughout each financial year in the past decade. The Government selects migrants based on skills and occupation shortages, experience, English proficiency, and their overall ability to contribute to the economy.

Below you can see a detailed breakdown of the 2025-2026 Migration Planning Level and the number of allocations for each category: 

Source: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels

What can be seen from reviewing the migration planning levels is that Australia’s Migration Program has remained relatively stable over the past 10 years. The current annual planning level for 2025–2026 is 185,000 places, which is very similar to the 190,000 places set in 2015–2016.

In 2017–2018 and 2018–2019, the migration planning levels were also set at 190,000 places. However, the final number of permanent residency visas granted was lower, with 162,417 places granted in 2017–2018 and 160,323 places granted in 2018–2019.

The biggest reduction occurred during the COVID-19 period. In 2021–2022, the planning level was reduced to 160,000 places, and only 143,556 permanent residency places were granted, as shown in the table below:

Source: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/research-and-statistics/statistics/visa-statistics/live/migration-program

It becomes even more detailed than this because, within the skilled migration quota, there are separate allocation levels for each state, and the total number also includes permanent visas in the family stream, including partner visas. Overall, the planning levels show a migration system that has remained fairly consistent over the past decade.

It is very important for the states to have influence and specific allocation levels because the needs of each state are different, depending on their economy and industry demands.

The Federal Government usually relies on data, particularly from Jobs and Skills Australia, to identify where workers are needed and which occupations should be prioritised. Meanwhile, the state governments use their own data to identify the occupations needed in their areas.

For example, Queensland might need a large number of chefs because of its large tourism industry while Western Australia might need more workers in mining-related roles to meet the demands of its resources sector.

Other states may have varying needs for different occupations, depending on their local industries and workforce shortages.

Source: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/state-and-territory-nomination-allocations

Another important part of the program is employer-sponsored migration. Under this pathway, an employer can sponsor someone for an occupation on a skilled list. They must advertise the role and demonstrate the genuine need for the position within their business.

This can be a more efficient pathway because every migrant who comes through this process is going into a paid job that is paid above a minimum amount, which is currently the Core Skills Income Threshold of $76,515. This is expected to increase from 1 July 2026.

Is There Really “Mass Immigration” in Australia?

Based on the planning levels from the last decade, the narrative that the migration program is unplanned and unmanaged doesn’t reflect reality. The program has many requirements, and it is often very difficult to obtain a visa to study or work in Australia.

The Federal Government and the states carefully select applicants by occupation and points to address known industry skills shortages. At a federal level, the government uses Jobs and Skills Australia while the state government departments use their own data to make decisions on who is granted a visa.

In the 2025–2026 financial year, there are 185,000 permanent residency places. When you look at the data from the planning levels in the last 10 years (see table above), this number is not very different from previous years.

For example, in 2015–2016, the Australian Government granted 189,770 permanent visas. The year with the lowest number of permanent visas granted was in 2021–22, when 143,556 permanent visas were granted out of 160,000 places. This was during COVID-19 when migration to Australia was limited due to border closures and overall effects of the pandemic.

During the pandemic, Australia experienced major skills shortages across many sectors, from hospitals to restaurants. If migration levels were reduced to a level lower than during COVID, as proposed by One Nation, Australia could face even greater skills shortages than it did at that time.

Skill shortages can then impact the economy and simple things like the price you pay for your food. For example, people in cities want avocado on toast, but they don’t want to pick the avocados. If there are no temporary workers, such as working holiday makers or regional workers, how much will that avocado on toast cost — or will it get picked at all?

Another important point is that New Zealand citizens or permanent residents are not counted in the 185,000-visa cap. In the five years prior to the pandemic, the average number of New Zealand migrants arriving in Australia each year was around 32,000, and in 2024–25 this number has increased to around 53,000. This represents a significant increase and is not included in the migration planning level.

Humanitarian visas are also not counted in the 185,000 migration planning level for 2025–2026, and this represents about 20,000 permanent residency places.

We have created the following table to show the planned number of visas and migration places for 2025–2026, including Skilled, Family visas, Humanitarian visas and New Zealand citizens or permanent residents migrating to Australia, not only the 185,000 places from the Migration Planning Levels.

For New Zealand citizens and permanent residents, the figure used is from 2024–2025, as the 2025–2026 data is not yet available. We expect a similar number in 2025–2026.

As shown in the table, more than half of the permanent residency visas planned to be granted in the 2025–2026 financial year are Skilled visas. This is followed by Family visas, which represent 20.4%, and Humanitarian visas, which represent only 7.8% of the total.

However, one important point that is often not discussed is the number of New Zealand citizens or permanent residents migrating to Australia and the impact this can have on the country. This is not included in the Migration Program planning levels, but it still represents a significant number, equivalent to around 20.6% of the total figures shown above.

As an immigration lawyer who has worked in the migration industry for over 20 years, my view is that Australia’s migration system is not uncontrolled. There is always room for improvement, particularly in refining the points test and strengthening regional migration pathways. However, significant cuts to migration levels could create serious challenges across multiple sectors of the Australian economy.

The key is finding the right balance to ensure the system continues to support economic growth, address skill shortages, and deliver long-term benefits for Australia.

It is also important to note that Net Overseas Migration, or NOM, is a separate issue and will be discussed in a separate article, as it involves different data and a broader discussion than the permanent migration program.

What Happens If Migration Is Drastically Cut?

There have been proposals by One Nation to reduce migration levels to 130,000 places, which is significantly lower than current planning levels and even lower than the reduced levels during COVID-19.

To put this into context, during COVID (2020–2021), when migration dropped to around 143,000, Australia experienced widespread skills shortages across multiple industries, from healthcare to hospitality and agriculture.

Source: https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/restaurant-industry-facing-critical-shortage-of-chefs-managers-and-sommeliers-20210513-p57rn1.html

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/business-59093560

If migration were reduced further, those shortages could return at an even greater scale. Australia could struggle to complete major infrastructure projects, meet healthcare demand, and support key industries that rely on overseas workers.

Even everyday services and costs would be affected. People often overlook how migration supports the daily life of each Australian and the positive contribution from migrant workers, from the workers who harvest food to those preparing meals in cafés and restaurants.

The drastic cuts now being called for by One Nation would take migration levels closer to the slump seen during COVID. That period led to major skill shortages and serious problems across the economy.

We also seem to have forgotten very quickly just how severe the skill shortages were during COVID.

At that time, there were a range of harsh immigration policies. The Government of the day told international students to go home, and many did.

With the borders closed, and with no new skilled migrants, working holiday makers or international students arriving, Australia experienced an extreme shortage of workers across almost every industry.

In an unprecedented move, the Australian Government created the COVID-19 Pandemic event visa, which allowed many people to stay and work in different industries during a period of clear national labour shortage and urgency.

If migration cuts were made to the level of 130,000, as proposed, Australia could return to the kind of ongoing labour shortages and pressure that existed during COVID and in the period immediately after it, which many people already seem to have forgotten.

Another major problem that very few people talk about is that, even if there were enough homes for everyone to buy, many people still would not be able to purchase one. The problem is not only housing supply, many people do not have the money for a deposit, or they would not qualify for a home loan because the bank would not approve the finance. I will talk more about migration and house crises later in this article.

Migration and the Economic Effects

Migration is closely tied to Australia’s economy and workforce.

Sectors like education and tourism are among the largest employers in the country, and both rely heavily on migration. Reducing migration in these areas could have flow-on effects, including job losses for Australians.

By comparison, industries often highlighted in economic discussions, such as mining, employ a much smaller proportion of the workforce.

According to Job and Skills Australia:

• Education and Training is the 5th largest employing sector in Australia, with 8.9% of the workforce
• Accommodation and Food Services is the 6th largest, with 6.7% of the workforce

By comparison:

• Mining is the 14th largest sector, employing only 2.0% of the workforce

So, cutting migration could potentially slow down the Australian economy and affect many sectors.

Migration and Housing: What Is the Real Impact?

Migration is often blamed for the housing pressure in Australia, but the reality is far more complex.

Reducing migration may have some effect at the margins, but it is unlikely to solve the housing problem on its own. Housing shortages are also driven by other major issues, including slow and expensive council processes, planning restrictions, limited subdivision opportunities, and barriers to building more homes on available land.

Another important issue is access to finance. This can be an uncomfortable point to raise, but not everyone has the same ability to borrow money or secure finance to build or buy a home. Many Australian citizens and permanent residents simply cannot get a loan.

I will be writing another article soon looking more closely at the relationship between housing shortages and immigration.

Final Thoughts

Often, when there is a difficult conversation to be had, it is easier to avoid it. That is why many people working in the immigration industry may not want to engage with the term “mass migration”.

But when a term becomes very common and is used repeatedly, it is worth asking how accurate it really is.

Is there really something new happening that should be called “mass migration”?

The view I am putting forward is that there has not been a dramatic shift of the kind this term suggests. Migration numbers have gone up and down over time, but before COVID they were at levels similar to those we are seeing now. Over the last 10 years, migration numbers have generally been between 160,000 and 190,000.

There was an outlier during COVID, when migration numbers dropped to 143,000. The result of that one major drop was severe skills shortages across many sectors.

A prolonged migration policy of around 130,000 places, as proposed by One Nation, would lead to drastic skills shortages in Australia. This would translate into a lack of healthcare and other basic services for Australians.

Another important point is that it has not been proven that migration numbers are the primary cause of the housing shortage, as One Nation has implied.

It is possible that keeping migration numbers at around 130,000 over time could have a double negative economic effect for Australia: an economic downturn, a lack of services in healthcare and other areas, and still ongoing housing shortages.

The housing shortage needs to be addressed by building more houses.

Author: Chris Johnston – Immigration Lawyer

Sources:

2025–2026 Migration Program planning levels – Department of Home Affairs: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels

Migration Program data since 2015–2016 – Department of Home Affairs: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/research-and-statistics/statistics/visa-statistics/live/migration-program

ABC News – Australia’s skills shortages: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-06/national-skills-commission-report-occupation-shortages-soar/101505668

Sydney Morning Herald – Hospitality skills shortages: https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/restaurant-industry-facing-critical-shortage-of-chefs-managers-and-sommeliers-20210513-p57rn1.html

BBC News – Australia jobs and staffing shortages: https://www.bbc.com/news/business-59093560

ATO – Types of property a foreign person can buy in Australia: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/investments-and-assets/foreign-resident-investments/foreign-investment-in-australia/types-of-property-a-foreign-person-can-buy

The Guardian – New Zealanders moving to Australia: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/03/new-zealand-economy-record-numbers-leave-why-people-choosing-australia#:~:text=Of%20those%2C%2058%25%20moved%20to%20Australia.%20Some,experience**%20*%20**Remote%20geography**%20*%20**Small%20scale**

ABS – Overseas Migration, 2024–2025: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/overseas-migration/latest-release

Big Updates on Australian Immigration!

Australian immigration is changing quickly in 2026. These updates are not limited to one visa type. They affect several parts of the migration system, including employer sponsored visas, student visas, graduate visas, Parent visas, Training visas, Visitor visas, state nomination and visa refusal appeals.

For many applicants, the key issue is timing. A change to salary thresholds, lodgement rules, appeal procedures or visa fees can affect whether an application is valid, affordable or likely to succeed. Employers also need to be careful, especially where sponsorship, nomination and salary requirements are involved.

This article expands on our YouTube video, “Big Updates on Australian Immigration!” If you watched the video and want more detail, this guide explains what the changes may mean and what applicants and employers should consider next.

This is general information only. It is not legal advice. Australian migration law changes often, and the best option will depend on your individual circumstances.

In this blog, we explain the main Australian immigration updates discussed in our YouTube video, including the new approved work sponsor register, employer sponsored visa salary threshold changes, Parent visa online lodgement, Subclass 407 Training visa changes, Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa fee increases, stronger student visa scrutiny, ART appeal changes, Iranian Visitor visa restrictions and recent 190 and 491 state nomination news.

New Approved Work Sponsor Register

The Australian Government has introduced changes that allow information about approved work sponsors to be published in a public register.

This register may include information such as the sponsor’s name, ABN, postcode, number of nominations and the types of occupations sponsored. The purpose appears to be greater transparency in the employer sponsorship system.

For skilled workers, this may be helpful because it could make it easier to identify employers who have used sponsorship pathways before. For employers, it may increase visibility and lead to more enquiries from workers looking for sponsorship.

However, workers should be careful. A sponsor appearing on a register does not automatically mean that the employer is currently hiring, willing to sponsor new workers or able to nominate every occupation.

What skilled workers should consider

If the register becomes available, skilled workers may be able to use it as one research tool. However, it should not be the only strategy. Applicants should still consider whether:

• the employer has a genuine position available
• the occupation is eligible for the relevant visa pathway
• the salary meets the relevant requirements
• the worker has the required skills, experience and English level
• the employer understands sponsorship obligations

What employers should consider

Employers should make sure their sponsorship practices are compliant. This includes salary, employment conditions, record keeping and nomination accuracy.

Official source: Migration Amendment legislation https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2026A00039/asmade/2026-04-08/text/original/pdf 

Employer Sponsored Visa Salary Thresholds

Salary thresholds are one of the most important parts of many employer sponsored visa applications.

The Department of Home Affairs has salary requirements for employer nominations, including for Subclass 482 and Subclass 186 nominations. In simple terms, employers generally need to show that the nominated salary meets the relevant threshold and is consistent with Australian market salary requirements.

In the video, we discussed expected salary threshold increases from 1 July 2026:

Core Skills Income Threshold, or CSIT
Current amount discussed: $76,515
Expected amount from 1 July 2026: $79,499

Specialist Skills Income Threshold, or SSIT
Current amount discussed: $141,210
Expected amount from 1 July 2026: $146,717

These thresholds are relevant to employer sponsored pathways, including the Skills in Demand visa and some Employer Nomination Scheme applications.

New Financial Year starting on 1 July 2026

Australian visa settings often change at the start of a new financial year. A nomination lodged before 1 July may be considered under different settings compared with one lodged after 1 July.

This means employers and applicants should not leave salary discussions until the last minute. A small salary difference can create a major issue if it means the nomination does not meet the relevant threshold.

Practical steps for employers

Before lodging an employer sponsored nomination, employers should review:

• the nominated occupation
• the proposed salary
• the market salary rate
• employment contract terms
• full-time or part-time status
• duties of the role
• work location
• whether the nominated position is genuine

Stronger Scrutiny Across Temporary Visas

Although the Department has not officially announced a general “temporary visa crackdown”, many applicants are experiencing stronger scrutiny across different temporary visa programs.

This may affect Partner visa applicants, Student visa applicants, Training visa applicants, Graduate visa applicants and Visitor visa applicants.

The practical message is simple: applicants should prepare properly, respond to Department requests on time and avoid assuming that a visa will be approved just because similar applications were approved in the past.

Partner Visa Phone Calls and Scam Risks

Some Partner visa applicants may receive phone calls from the Department of Home Affairs. This can happen where the Department wants more information or needs to clarify details about the application.

However, applicants should also be careful about scams. Scammers may pretend to be from the Department or another government agency.

The Department will not ask for your ImmiAccount password. Be very careful if anyone asks for bank details, credit card details or unusual payment methods over the phone.

What Partner visa applicants should do

If you receive a phone call about your visa application:

• stay calm and do not feel pressured
• ask for the request to be sent in writing if you are unsure
• check your ImmiAccount
• do not provide passwords or payment details over the phone
• speak with your migration lawyer or registered migration agent if you are represented
• respond to genuine Department requests before the deadline

This is especially important for second-stage Partner visa applications, where failure to respond to document requests can create refusal risks.

Subclass 407 Training Visa Changes

The Subclass 407 Training visa has become more difficult to lodge for some applicants.

From 10 March 2026, Training visa applicants must have an approved sponsor and nomination before they can apply for the visa. This is an important change because previously some applicants may have planned to lodge while sponsorship or nomination steps were still being finalised.

This change may create problems for onshore applicants whose current visas are expiring soon. If the sponsorship and nomination are not approved in time, the applicant may not be able to lodge a valid Training visa application before their current visa expires.

What 407 visa applicants should prepare

A strong Training visa strategy should consider:

• whether there is an approved sponsor
• whether the nomination is ready and complete
• the type of occupational training being proposed
• whether the training is genuine
• the applicant’s current visa expiry date
• whether the training plan matches the applicant’s background and goals
• whether the applicant can meet health, character and other requirements

Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 Fee Increase

The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa is an important pathway for many international students who complete eligible studies in Australia.

The Department of Home Affairs currently lists the starting cost for the Post-Higher Education Work stream as AU$ 4,600. This is a significant increase for many graduates, considering the previous cost of only AU$ 2,300.

Because the visa charge is now much higher, applicants should be careful before lodging. A refusal can be expensive and may also affect future visa planning.

What 485 visa applicants should check

Before lodging a 485 visa application, graduates should check:

• whether they are applying in the correct stream
• age requirements
• qualification requirements
• English language requirements
• health insurance
• AFP police check requirements
• timing from course completion
• current visa expiry date
• whether family members are included correctly

Student Visa Refusals and Stronger Evidence Requirements

Student visa applications continue to receive strong scrutiny.

Applicants should not assume that enrolment in an Australian course is enough. The Department may look closely at the applicant’s reasons for study, financial position, immigration history, previous study, work background and whether the proposed course makes sense.

For many applicants, the Genuine Student requirement is one of the most important parts of the application.

Common student visa risk areas

Student visa applicants should carefully address:

• why they chose Australia
• why they chose the course and education provider
• how the course fits their past study or employment
• how the course helps their future plans
• evidence of financial capacity
• English language evidence
• gaps in study or employment history
• previous visa refusals or cancellations
• family, economic or personal ties outside Australia

If a student visa is refused, some applicants may have appeal rights. However, appeal deadlines are strict.

Parent Visa Applications Can Now Be Lodged Online

From 22 April 2026, several Parent visa applications must be lodged online through ImmiAccount.

This is a major practical change because many Parent visa applications previously involved paper forms and postal lodgement.

Online lodgement may make the process easier to manage. Applicants can upload documents, track the application and reduce the risk of postal delays.

Parent visa subclasses affected

The online lodgement change applies to several permanent Parent visa subclasses, including:

• Parent visa Subclass 103
• Contributory Parent visa Subclass 143
• Aged Parent visa Subclass 804
• Contributory Aged Parent visa Subclass 864

Parent visa processing remains slow

Online lodgement does not remove the long waiting times for many Parent visas. Parent visa applications are still affected by capping and queueing arrangements.

This means families should plan early and consider whether another visa option may be suitable while waiting.

ART Appeal Changes: Written Evidence May Become Even More Important

The Administrative Review Tribunal, or ART, reviews many migration and visa refusal decisions.

The Australian Government has announced reforms that may allow the Tribunal more flexibility to decide some matters based on written material without an oral hearing, where it is reasonable and appropriate to do so.

The government has indicated that this may first apply to student visa refusal reviews.

This does not mean every case will be decided without a hearing. However, it does mean written submissions and evidence may become even more important.

What visa refusal applicants should do

If your visa is refused, do not simply lodge an appeal and wait.

You should consider preparing:

• detailed written submissions
• evidence responding directly to the refusal reasons
• updated documents
• explanations for any inconsistencies
• evidence of changed circumstances
• legal arguments, where appropriate

Appeal deadlines can be very short. If you miss the deadline, you may lose the opportunity to have the decision reviewed.

Iranian Visitor Visa Restrictions

A temporary travel restriction applies to certain people outside Australia who hold a Visitor visa Subclass 600 linked to an Iranian passport.

The Arrival Control Determination began on 26 March 2026 and is in force for six months, unless extended or changed. The Department states that it applies to people who are outside Australia, hold a Visitor Subclass 600 visa and whose visa is linked to a passport issued by the Islamic Republic of Iran, unless an exemption applies.

This does not affect every Iranian citizen or every Iranian visa holder.

Who should check carefully?

You should check your situation carefully if you:

• are outside Australia
• hold a Subclass 600 Visitor visa
• used an Iranian passport for the visa application
• are planning to travel to Australia soon
• may fall within an exemption
• need to apply for a permitted travel certificate

State Nomination Updates for 190 and 491 Visas

As Australia approaches the end of the 2025–2026 financial year, state nomination programs are becoming more limited and they states will be closing soon. 

We are going to publish another blog and Youtube video with more details on state nomination 190 and 491 visas. 

Need Help With an Australian Visa?

Australian immigration changes can affect students, skilled workers, employers, graduates, parents, visitors and people with visa refusals.

If you need help understanding your visa options, Work Visa Lawyers can assist. Our team includes immigration lawyers and registered migration agents who advise on employer sponsored visas, student visas, graduate visas, Parent visas, Training visas, Visitor visas, state nomination, visa refusals and ART appeals.

You can book a consultation with Work Visa Lawyers to discuss your circumstances and plan your next step.

Book an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the biggest Australian immigration updates in 2026?

Major 2026 immigration updates include the new approved work sponsor register, expected employer sponsored salary threshold increases, online Parent visa lodgement, 407 Training visa changes, higher 485 visa fees, student visa scrutiny, ART appeal changes, Iranian Visitor visa restrictions and 190/491 state nomination updates.

What is the approved work sponsor register?

The approved work sponsor register is a new measure that may allow public information about approved work sponsors to be published. This may include sponsor details and information about sponsored occupations. It may help workers identify employers who have previously sponsored overseas workers.

Are employer sponsored visa salary thresholds increasing?

Salary thresholds are expected to increase from 1 July 2026 from $76,515 to $79,499. Employers should check the latest Department of Home Affairs salary requirements before lodging a nomination, especially for Skills in Demand and Employer Nomination Scheme applications.

Can Parent visas now be lodged online?

Yes. From 22 April 2026, several permanent Parent visa applications must be lodged online through ImmiAccount, including Subclass 103, 143, 804 and 864 applications.

What changed for the 407 Training visa?

From 10 March 2026, Subclass 407 Training visa applicants must have an approved sponsor and nomination before they can apply for the visa. This makes early preparation very important, especially for applicants in Australia with visas expiring soon.

How much does the 485 Temporary Graduate visa cost?

The Department of Home Affairs currently lists the starting cost for the Subclass 485 Post-Higher Education Work stream as AUD $4,600. Applicants should check the latest visa application charge before lodging.

Are student visa refusals increasing?

Student visa applications are receiving strong scrutiny. Applicants should provide clear evidence of genuine study intention, financial capacity, course relevance and immigration history. If a student visa is refused, some applicants may have appeal rights, but deadlines are strict.

Can the ART decide a visa appeal without a hearing?

The Australian Government has announced changes that may give the ART more flexibility to decide some matters based on written material without an oral hearing, where appropriate. This means written evidence and submissions may become even more important.

Are Iranian Visitor visa holders restricted from travelling to Australia?

A temporary travel restriction applies to certain people outside Australia who hold a Subclass 600 Visitor visa linked to an Iranian passport, unless an exemption applies. Affected visa holders should check official Home Affairs information and their individual circumstances.

Are 190 and 491 state nomination programs still open?

It depends on the state or territory. Some programs may be closed, nearly full or still issuing invitations. Applicants should check the official state or territory migration website before making decisions.

Official Sources:

• Department of Home Affairs salary requirements: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/employing-and-sponsoring-someone/sponsoring-workers/nominating-a-position/salary-requirements 
• Subclass 407 Training visa: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/training-407 
• Training visa application requirement change: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1392 
• Temporary Graduate visa Subclass 485: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485/post-higher-education-work 
• Student visa Subclass 500: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500 
• Parent visa Subclass 103: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/parent-103 
• Aged Parent visa Subclass 804: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/aged-parent-804 
• Parent visa queue information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/visa-processing-priorities/parent-visas 
• Visa scams information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/visa-scams/what-you-need-to-know 
• ART changes ministerial release: https://ministers.ag.gov.au/media-centre/strengthening-administrative-review-tribunal-05-02-2026 
• Iranian Visitor visa Arrival Control Determination: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-and-support/arrival-control-determination 
• Victoria skilled visa nomination update: https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/news-events/news/2026/update-victorias-skilled-visa-nomination-program-2025-26 
• South Australia April 2026 invitations: https://migration.sa.gov.au/news/invitations-issued-april-2026 
• NSW Skilled Work Regional visa Subclass 491: https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/skilled-work-regional-visa-subclass-491

Advantages of the 186 TRT Permanent Visa Over the Direct Entry Stream

If you currently hold a Subclass 482 visa, whether under the old Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) program or the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa, the Subclass 186 Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) visa is usually the easiest and safest pathway to Australian permanent residency.

Many skilled workers mistakenly consider the Direct Entry (DE) stream first. However, in reality, if you are already on a 482 visa, the TRT stream often offers significantly more advantages, fewer risks and greater flexibility.

In this article, we explain why the 186 TRT stream is often the preferred pathway to permanent residency compared to the 186 Direct Entry stream.

What Is the Subclass 186 Permanent Residency Visa?

The Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa allows skilled workers nominated by an Australian employer to become permanent residents in Australia.

It has three streams:

• Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream – for individuals holding a Subclass 482 visa for at least 2 years
• Direct Entry (DE) stream – for applicants applying directly for permanent residency
• Labour Agreement stream – where some concessions may apply

For most workers already in Australia on some employer-sponsored visas, the TRT stream is the best option, and in this blog we will explain why.

Recent migration reforms have strengthened the pathway from temporary visas to permanent residency, making the TRT stream more accessible for Subclass 482 visa holders.

Who Can Apply for the 186 TRT Visa?

You may qualify for the TRT stream if you hold or previously held:

• Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa
• Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID) visa
• Legacy Subclass 457 visa

Generally, you must have worked for an approved employer for at least 2 years while holding a 482 visa in your nominated occupation.

This makes the TRT stream the natural transition pathway to permanent residency for most sponsored workers.

Key Advantages of the 186 TRT Visa Over Direct Entry

1) No Skills Assessment Required

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:

• You must meet the ANZSCO skill level requirements, but a skills assessment is generally not required for most occupations.
• This is a major advantage because skills assessments can be expensive, time-consuming and stressful.

Direct Entry (DE) Stream:

• A skills assessment is required
• It must be completed through the relevant assessing authority
• It can take months and cost thousands of dollars

This is one of the main reasons why TRT is usually the easier pathway for current 482 visa holders.

2) Work Experience

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:

• You generally need to have worked for your sponsoring employer for at least 2 years while holding a 482 visa
• This work must usually be in the occupation for which you are being nominated
• The TRT pathway is designed for workers who are already in Australia and already working for their employer

Direct Entry (DE) Stream:

• You generally need at least 3 years of relevant work experience in your occupation
• This work experience can be gained in Australia or overseas
• The Department looks closely at whether your work history is relevant and at the required skill level

This means TRT usually has a lower and more practical work experience requirement for people who are already on a 482 visa.

Another important point about the work experience is that the 482 visa generally requires only 1 year of full-time relevant work experience. Because of this, many applicants see the 482 visa as a more realistic pathway when they do not yet have the 3 years of full-time experience usually required for the 186 Direct Entry stream.

A common strategy is to qualify first for the 482 visa with 1 year of experience, work in Australia for at least 2 years on that visa, and then apply for permanent residency through the 186 Temporary Residence Transition stream.

3) Age Exemptions

Both streams generally require applicants to be under 45 years of age. However, the TRT stream offers more practical age exemption options, including:

• Medical practitioners may be exempt from the age limit if they have worked in a regional area of Australia for at least 2 years in the last 3 years while holding a 457 or 482 visa, and the new nominated job is also in a regional area.
• Some 457 or 482 visa holders may also be exempt from the age limit if they have worked in sponsored employment for at least 2 years in the last 3 years and earned at least the Fair Work High Income Threshold in each of those years (currently $183,100).

These age exemption options can make the TRT stream much more flexible for some applicants.

4) Occupation List

Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:

• The TRT stream is generally more flexible because it is based on the occupation connected to your existing 482 visa and nomination history
• This can be a major advantage for current 482 visa holders

Direct Entry (DE) Stream:

• The occupation must generally be on the relevant skilled occupation list – Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
• If your occupation is not on the list, you may not be eligible under the Direct Entry stream

This means TRT can be a better option for workers whose occupations may not be available under the Direct Entry stream due to the occupation not being on the CSOL.

5) Easier Permanent Residency Pathway for 482 Visa Holders

The TRT stream was specifically designed as a pathway for temporary skilled workers.

This includes holders of:

• Old Subclass 482 TSS visa
• New Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa
• Legacy Subclass 457 visa

Migration reforms now allow eligible workers to apply after working only 2 out of the last 3 years with an approved sponsor.

This has made permanent residency more accessible than ever for many 482 visa holders.

6) Lower Risk of Refusal

TRT applications are generally lower risk because:

• You are already working in Australia
• Your employer has already sponsored you
• Your skills have already been proven in the Australian workplace
• There is already an established employer-employee relationship

Direct Entry applications rely more heavily on external verification, work history assessment and skills assessments, which can increase the risk of refusal.

7) Greater Employer Support

Employers often prefer to sponsor TRT applicants because:

• They already know your performance
• They trust your skills
• They have invested in your 482 work visa
• You are already working in the business

The employer must still demonstrate a genuine need for the role and show that the position fits within their ongoing business operations.

This requirement is usually easier to meet for existing employees than for someone applying directly from outside the business.

8) Ability to Change Employers and Still Qualify

One major concern for 482 visa holders is what happens if their employer refuses to sponsor them for permanent residency.

Recent changes mean that, in some cases, you may still be able to:

• Change employers
• Obtain a new Subclass 482 visa with another approved sponsor
• Continue working toward eligibility for the 186 TRT visa

This provides flexibility and helps protect your pathway to permanent residency, even if your original employer does not offer permanent residency sponsorship.

Important 186 Visa Requirements to Keep in Mind

To qualify for the 186 TRT visa, you must meet requirements including:

• Employer nomination approval
• A genuine position within the business
• Competent English, such as IELTS 6 or equivalent
• Salary meeting the relevant income threshold (currently $76,515 which is increasing from 1 July 2026)
• Health and character requirements

If your IELTS score is below 6, improving your English while holding a Subclass 482 visa is very important when preparing for permanent residency.

TRT vs Direct Entry: Quick Comparison

Why Most 482 Visa Holders Should Choose TRT

If you currently hold a Subclass 482 visa, whether under the TSS or Skills in Demand program, the TRT stream is almost always the best pathway to permanent residency.

It offers:

• Broader age exemption categories
• No skills assessment required for most occupations
• Lower work experience threshold
• Generally more employer support
• Lower overall costs
• Lower risk of refusal

For most 482 visa holders, the TRT stream is simpler, safer and more practical than the Direct Entry stream.

Need Help With Your 186 TRT Visa?

Navigating employer-sponsored permanent residency can be complex, especially with changing migration laws. Professional guidance can help ensure you choose the correct pathway and avoid costly mistakes.

Contact Work Visa Lawyers today to assess your eligibility for the 186 TRT visa and secure your pathway to Australian permanent residency.

Our lawyers and migration agents have been helping business and applicants with employer sponsored visas since 2011.

Book an appointment today to discuss your situation.

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Can I Buy Property in Australia in 2026 on a Temporary Visa or from Overseas?

In 2026, Australian citizens and permanent residents can generally buy established homes freely, but temporary residents, including many visa holders such as 482 workers, 491 visa holders and student visa holders, are generally caught by the current ban on buying established homes from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2027, unless an exception applies.

Foreign buyers may still be able to purchase new dwellings or vacant land with approval, but the rules are much stricter than before. This is especially important for migrants, temporary visa holders and overseas investors.

The changes come at a time when Australia is facing a housing crisis, with affordability pressures, rising rents and a shortage of available homes putting increasing pressure on the market.

In response, the Government has tightened the rules around foreign property purchases, particularly for existing homes.

For migrants, this means visa status matters a great deal. Whether you are an Australian permanent resident, a New Zealand citizen, a temporary visa holder or a foreign investor can make a significant difference to the type of property you may be allowed to buy.

Migrants buying properties in Australia

For many migrants in Australia, buying property is about more than just making an investment. It is often linked to long-term settlement plans, family stability and building a future in Australia.

However, many visa holders assume they can buy property simply because they are living and working here. That is not always the case.

A temporary visa holder may be able to buy some types of property, but not others. In the context of Australia’s housing crisis, these rules are intended to protect housing supply and prioritise access to established homes for Australian citizens and permanent residents.

That is why it is so important for migrants to check both their visa status and the foreign investment rules before signing a contract or paying a deposit.

Who Can Buy Property in Australia?

Australian citizens and permanent residents

Australian citizens and Australian permanent residents can generally buy residential property in Australia freely. This includes established homes, new homes and vacant land. They do not usually need foreign investment approval.

For migrants, this means that once you become a permanent resident, the property rules are much more flexible.

New Zealand citizens

Many New Zealand citizens in Australia are also treated more favourably and may be exempt from foreign investment approval requirements, particularly where they hold or are eligible for a Special Category Visa.

Temporary residents and other foreign persons

Temporary residents and foreign persons are where the restrictions become much more important. In general, foreign persons require approval before buying residential property.

From 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2027, foreign persons, including temporary residents and foreign-owned companies, are generally banned from purchasing established dwellings unless an exception applies.

What Is an Established Home?

An established home, also called an established dwelling, is basically a residential property that is not a new dwelling. In simple terms, it is usually a second-hand home that has already been lived in before. This can include an existing house, townhouse, apartment or unit that is being resold.

This is different from a new dwelling, such as a newly built apartment, a brand new house, or some off-the-plan properties. The Government’s foreign investment policy generally prefers foreign investment to go into new dwellings and vacant land because that adds to housing supply.

What Can Foreign Buyers Still Buy?

Even under the stricter 2026 rules, some property types may still be available to foreign buyers and temporary residents, usually with prior approval.

• New dwellings and off-the-plan properties
  These are generally allowed because they add to housing supply.
• Vacant residential land
  This is also generally permitted if development conditions are met, such as building within the required timeframe.
• Established dwellings for redevelopment in limited cases
  There can be limited exceptions where the purchase will genuinely increase housing supply, such as redevelopment that creates at least one additional dwelling. These cases usually require approval and strict conditions.

Examples for migrants and visa holders

Here are some practical examples.

1. A permanent resident on a Subclass 186 visa, 189 visa or 190 visa

   A person who already holds Australian permanent residence, such as through a Subclass 186 visa, 189 visa and 190 visa can generally buy an established home without needing foreign investment approval, because they are no longer treated as a temporary resident for these purposes.

2. A temporary skilled worker on a Subclass 482 visa or a 494 visa

   A person on a 482 visa is usually a temporary resident. Under the current temporary ban, they are generally not able to buy an established home unless a limited exception applies.

3. An international student on a Subclass 500 visa

   A student visa holder is also generally a temporary resident. This means they are normally caught by the current ban on buying established homes, unless an exception applies. They may still be able to explore new dwellings or vacant land, subject to approval and other rules.

4. A provisional or temporary partner visa holder

   If the person is still on a temporary visa and is considered a foreign person, the foreign investment rules may still apply to them. That means they may not be able to buy an established home during the current ban period unless an exception applies. Now, if the person already holds a permanent partner visa, they can generally buy property like any other permanent resident, including established homes.

5. A foreign investor living overseas with no Australian visa

   This person is generally a foreign non-resident. Under the current rules, they are generally prohibited from buying established homes, but may still be able to apply for approval to buy new dwellings or vacant land, depending on the circumstances.

What Can You Do Now If You Want to Buy Property in Australia?

If you are a migrant in Australia, the most important question is not just whether you can buy property, it is what type of property you can buy based on your immigration status.

If you are a migrant or visa holder and are thinking about buying property in Australia, it is a good idea to get advice before taking any steps, especially if you are looking at an existing home rather than a new property.

You can check more information on the links bellow:

Foreign investment in Australia | Foreign investment in Australia

Types of property a foreign person can buy | Australian Taxation Office

FIRB: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/investments-and-assets/foreign-resident-investments/foreign-investment-in-australia/planning-to-invest-in-australia

If you need any assistance with an Australian visa application, please book an appointment with one of our immigration lawyers or migration agents. Work Visa Lawyers is one of the leading immigration law firms in Australia, assisting applicants and businesses since 2011.

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Parent Visa Update April 2026: Online Lodgement Changes Explained

From 22 April 2026, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced a key change to how Parent visa applications are lodged.

The Migration (Arrangements for Parent Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/005) replaces the previous IMMI 18/079 framework.

What Has Changed?

The new instrument expands online lodgement to several Parent visa subclasses.

You can now lodge the following visas online:

• Parent (Migrant) (Class AX) (Subclass103)
• Aged Parent (Residence) (Class BP) (Subclass 804)
• Contributory Parent (Migrant) (Class CA) (Subclass 143)
• Contributory Aged Parent (Residence) (Class DG) (Subclass 864)

This means many Parent visa applicants no longer need to rely on paper applications.

But Not All Parent Visas Are Online

This is where many applicants can get caught out.

The following visas must still be lodged by paper:

• Contributory Parent (Temporary) (Class UT) (Subclass 173)
• Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) (Class UU) (Subclass 884)

If you choose the wrong lodgement method, your application may not be accepted.

Why This Change Matters

This is not just about convenience. It changes how applications are handled in practice.

1. Reduced Risk of Delivery Issues

No more relying on courier delays or lost documents.

2. More Control Over Your Application

Online lodgement allows direct uploading and easier tracking.

3. Faster Administrative Handling

While this does not reduce processing times, it can improve how quickly applications are received and recorded.

In practical terms, the way you submit your application is now more important than ever. 

Transitional Rules: A Critical Detail

There is one rule that many applicants will miss.

If your application was:

• Sent before 22 April 2026 but received after this date the old lodgement rules still apply.

This change is part of a broader shift toward a digital migration system. However, Australia continues to operate a mixed lodgement framework, and errors can result in delays or invalid applications. The key takeaway is that lodging your application correctly is now critical.

Need Help with a Parent Visa Application?

Parent visas are already one of the most complex visa categories in Australia.

With these new lodgement rules, getting it wrong is easier than ever.

If you are unsure which visa you should apply for or how to lodge it correctly it’s worth getting advice before you submit your application.

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