What's changed
Recent changes to Australian visa rules, and what they mean for you. Newest first.
Student visa reform
Most temporary visa holders — including 485, 482, visitor and working holiday visa holders — can no longer apply for a Student visa from inside Australia. Most current students also apply from outside Australia now, unless an exemption applies. Family members can only be included in limited cases, and only when applying.
What it means: If you're studying or on a 485, start your skilled pathway plan earlier.
New skilled visa processing priorities (Ministerial Directions 121 and 122)
Priority sectors — construction, healthcare, teaching, agriculture, aquaculture, fishing and resources — are processed first, followed by applicants who were in Australia when they applied.
What it means: Lodging from inside Australia, in a priority occupation, can mean a faster decision.
Visitor visa and points test changes announced
The Government announced a No Further Stay condition for all future visitor visas, a redesigned points test (housing trades to earn the same points as a degree), and no family members on new 485 applications. Start dates haven't been confirmed.
What it means: Current rules still apply. Plan partner visas before travelling.
Family visa processing priorities (Ministerial Direction 117)
Family visa applications made in Australia, for a visa granted in Australia, now receive the highest processing priority.
What it means: For many couples already in Australia, an onshore partner application can be decided sooner.
Visa charges and salary thresholds rose
Most visa charges rose about 25%. The Core Skills threshold is A$79,423 and the Specialist Skills threshold is A$146,576.
What it means: Every cost on this site was updated. Check older quotes.
Partner visa: decision-ready applications
Home Affairs now expects partner applications to be complete at lodgement and generally asks for more information only once.
What it means: Get the evidence right before you lodge.
Sources: the Department of Home Affairs and the Federal Register of Legislation. Announced changes without a start date don't apply yet.