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Request for Expressions of Interest from Higher Education Providers for approval of courses for qualification as a registered migration agent

The Department of Home Affairs is remaking the legislative instrument that lists acceptable courses for qualification as a registered migration agent in Australia. The Department is seeking submissions for inclusion in this new legislative instrument from higher education providers offering courses for qualification as a registered migration agent. On 1…

What RMAs should know about Management Liability insurance

Migration work is already complex enough. Between client deadlines, changing regulations, and high-stakes decision-making, most agents are stretched thin. But if you run your own practice, you’re juggling even more than that. You’re also the director. The business owner. The person responsible if something goes wrong behind the scenes. Each of those roles comes…

Migration (Specification of Organisations) Instrument 2025

The Migration (Specification of Organisations) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/015), issued under regulation 1.21 of the Migration Regulations 1994, formally repeals the previous instrument IMMI 13/023 and updates the specification of organisations authorised to make independent assessments of non-judicially determined claims of family violence. This legislative update confirms that LSC Psychology…

Migration Amendment (Visa Application Charges) Regulations 2025

The Migration Amendment (Visa Application Charges) Regulations 2025 implements scheduled adjustments to visa application charges (VACs), effective from 1 July 2025, consistent with the Australian Government’s annual indexation policy. The majority of VACs will increase by 3%, reflecting the 2023–2024 Consumer Price Index (CPI), as announced in the Federal Budget.…

Closure of Department of Home Affairs visa processing office in Berlin, Germany

On 30 June 2025, the Department of Home Affairs will cease its operations in the Australian Embassy in Berlin and will be closing the visa processing office. The closure of the Home Affairs visa processing office will not impact visa and citizenship applicants in Europe as visa applications are already…

Migration (Arrangements for Protection, Refugee and Humanitarian Visas) Amendment (Internet Lodgement) Instrument 2025

The Department of Home Affairs has introduced a new legislative instrument titled Migration (Arrangements for Protection, Refugee and Humanitarian Visas) Amendment (Internet Lodgement) Instrument 2025, which comes into effect on 1 July 2025. The instrument facilitates a significant procedural change by allowing internet-based lodgement of Subclass 202 (Global Special Humanitarian)…

Migration (IMMI 18/033 Specification of Income Threshold and Annual Earnings and Methodology of Annual Market Salary Rate) Amendment (Annual TSMIT Increase) Instrument 2025

The Migration (IMMI 18/033) Amendment (Annual TSMIT Increase) Instrument 2025 implements an increase to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), raising it from $73,150 to $76,515, effective 1 July 2025. This adjustment applies to the following visa subclasses: Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa Subclass 187…

Strengthening ImmiAccount Security with Multi-Factor Authentication

From 18 June 2025, the Department of Home Affairs will implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all ImmiAccount users. This security enhancement will apply to both new and existing users. Users will be required to set up MFA when creating an account or logging in. Once enabled, MFA will be required…

Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visa) Amendment (Pathway Programs) Instrument 2025

On 23 May 2025, the Department of Home Affairs registered LIN 25/027, amended the Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visa) Instrument (LIN 24/022) under Schedule 2 to the Migration Regulations 1994. This legislative amendment updates the list of eligible pathway programs used to determine…

Summary – Update to ImmiAccount for Paper-Based Parent Visa Applications (24 April 2025)

The Department of Home Affairs has introduced new online services to support paper-based Parent visa applicants. Although applicants must still lodge their Parent visa application on paper, they can now import their application into ImmiAccount once the Department has acknowledged receipt. Importing into ImmiAccount provides access to several online services,…

Migration Alliance joins MIA in advocating for stronger support for international students

Migration Alliance acknowledges the Migration Institute of Australia’s (MIA) press release calling for stronger support for international students. We fully recognise the immense contributions international students make to Australia’s economy, cultural diversity, and educational sector. As the fourth-largest export industry, international education generates approximately $50 billion annually for the Australian…

Migration Legislation Amendment (Specified Work and Areas for Subclass 417 and 462 Visas) Instrument 2025

The Migration Legislation Amendment (Specified Work and Areas for Subclass 417 and 462 Visas) Instrument 2025 amends the Migration Regulations 1994 by expanding the areas of Australia where recovery work can be undertaken for the purposes of satisfying specified work requirements for Subclass 417 (Working Holiday) and Subclass 462 (Work…

Migration Amendment for UK Armed Forces Personnel

The Migration Amendment (Status of Forces Agreement – United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland) Regulations 2025 introduce significant changes for members of the UK armed forces and their civilian component. These amendments, which align with the Australia-UK Defence and Security Cooperation Agreement, ensure that UK personnel and their…

Cancellation of Registration for Migration Agent for 5 years

The Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) has made a significant decision on 24 March 2025, cancelling the registration of Migration Agent Nilli Singh Bhandari. This action follows a thorough investigation into multiple complaints and a serious breach of professional conduct. Key findings include: Failure to deliver services:…

Understanding Workplace Rights for Visa Holders in Australia

The Workplace Rights Guide provides essential information on the rights and protections that workers, including visa holders, have under Australian workplace laws. It outlines that all workers in Australia, regardless of their citizenship status, are entitled to basic workplace protections. Key points include: Workplace Rights for Visa Holders: Visa holders…

Increased Income Thresholds for Skilled Visas from 1 July 2025

Starting from 1 July 2025, skilled visa income thresholds will rise by 4.6%, in line with changes to the Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE). This adjustment ensures that skilled migration wages align with Australian workers’ wages, preventing the potential undercutting of local salaries. Key changes include: Core Skills Income…

RMA Activity Report: January – June 2024

The Migration Agent Activity Report for January to June 2024 provides a comprehensive overview of the activities of registered migration agents (RMAs) in Australia, including registration data, complaint handling, and sanctions. Key Points: OMARA’s Role: The Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) regulates migration agents under the Migration…

Housing affordability: Fix the system, not blame migrants

The Settlement Council of Australia’s report on housing affordability challenges the notion that migrants are to blame for rising housing costs. While migration contributes to population growth and housing demand, the root causes of Australia’s housing crisis are far more complex. Key factors include housing supply constraints, with new housing…

Getting Married While Waiting for a Skilled Visa? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Getting Married While Waiting for a Skilled Visa? Here’s What You Need to Know! If you applied for a Skilled Migration visa (Subclass 189, 190, or 491) as a single applicant and later got married, you might be at risk of losing 10 points from your application. Here’s why: How…

Key Policy Updates for Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 186) & Regulation 5.19

Key Policy Updates for Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 186) & Regulation 5.19 The Department of Home Affairs has updated its procedural instructions (PI) for employer-sponsored visas, specifically Regulation 5.19 nominations and the Subclass 186 visa (Employer Nomination Scheme – ENS). These updates, which took effect from 7 December 2024, provide additional…

Faster & Cheaper TRA Skills Assessments for Housing Construction Occupations

Faster & Cheaper TRA Skills Assessments for Housing Construction Occupations Great news for skilled workers in the housing construction sector! Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) has introduced a faster and more cost-effective pathway for skills assessments under the Migration Skills Assessment (MSA) program. What’s Changing? From 31 July 2024, applicants working…

Comprehensive Guide to General Skilled Migration (GSM): Subclass 189, 190, 491, and 191 Visas

Comprehensive Guide to General Skilled Migration (GSM): Subclass 189, 190, 491, and 191 Visas Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program provides a pathway for skilled individuals to migrate to Australia based on their qualifications, work experience, and English proficiency. The GSM program is points-tested and offers several visa options, including…

Migration (Class of Persons for Nil VAC for Subclass 600 (Visitor) Visa Applications – Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games) Specification 2025

The Australian Government has introduced a legislative instrument, LIN 25/019, under the Migration Regulations 1994 to waive the Visa Application Charge (VAC) for certain applicants applying for a Subclass 600 (Visitor) visa in connection with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Under this instrument, individuals who are invited by…

Migration (Class of Persons for Nil VAC for Subclass 600 (Visitor) Visa Applications – Pacific Australia Card Holders) Specification 2025

The Migration (Class of Persons for Nil VAC for Subclass 600 (Visitor) Visa Applications—Pacific Australia Card Holders) Specification 2025 (LIN 25/007) was issued under subparagraph 1236(2)(a)(iv) of Schedule 1 to the Migration Regulations 1994. The instrument, which commences on 22 March 2025, specifies that holders of a valid Pacific Australia…

Migration (Granting of Contributory Parent Visas, Parent Visas and Other Family Visas during Financial Year 2024-25) Instrument 2025

The Australian Government has established the visa caps for Contributory Parent, Parent, and Other Family visas for the 2024-2025 financial year under the Migration (Granting of Contributory Parent Visas, Parent Visas, and Other Family Visas) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/018). The allocations are as follows: 6,800 Contributory Parent visas, including 112…

Migration Amendment (Substituted Subclass 600 Visa Exemptions) Regulations 2025

The Migration Amendment (Substituted Subclass 600 Visa Exemptions) Regulations 2025 introduces changes to the Migration Regulations 1994, specifically impacting applicants for the Aged Parent (Subclass 804), Contributory Aged Parent (Subclass 864), and Contributory Aged Parent (Subclass 884) visas. Key Amendments: Eligibility for Aged Parent Visas: Applicants must either: Be an…

Migration (Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement) Visa Pre-application Process – Treaty Stream) Determination 2025

New Treaty Stream Visa for Tuvalu Citizens – What You Need to Know The Migration (Subclass 192 Pacific Engagement Visa Pre-application Process – Treaty Stream) Determination 2025 introduces a new migration pathway for Tuvaluan citizens, strengthening Australia’s regional partnerships. This initiative is part of the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty, providing…

Migration (English Language Requirements for Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement) Visa-Pacific Engagement Stream) Instrument 2025

The Migration (English Language Requirements for Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement) Visa – Pacific Engagement Stream) Instrument 2025 establishes the English language proficiency criteria for applicants under the Pacific Engagement stream of the Subclass 192 visa. This instrument replaces the 2024 version (LIN 24/023) and will take effect from 1 May…

Migration (Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement) Visa Pre-application Process-Pacific Engagement Stream) Determination 2025

The Migration (Subclass 192 (Pacific Engagement) Visa Pre-application Process – Pacific Engagement Stream) Determination 2025 (LIN 25/020) is a legislative instrument issued under subsection 46C(14) of the Migration Act 1958. It establishes the pre-application process for the Pacific Engagement stream of the Subclass 192 Pacific Engagement Visa, replacing the 2024…

Migration (Public Interest Criterion 4022 – Code of Behaviour) Instrument 2025

February 27, 2025

The Migration (Public Interest Criterion 4022 – Code of Behaviour) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/017) is issued under clause 4.1 of Schedule 4 of the Migration Regulations 1994 by the Minister for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs. The instrument replaces and repeals the previous Code of Behaviour instrument (LIN 24/031), ensuring continuity…

Migration Amendment (Differential Student Visa Application Charge) Regulations 2025

February 24, 2025

The Migration Amendment (Differential Student Visa Application Charge) Regulations 2025 amend the Migration Regulations 1994 to introduce a differential (lower) Visa Application Charge (VAC) for Subclass 500 (Student) and Subclass 590 (Student Guardian) visa applicants who hold a valid passport issued by a specified country in the Pacific or Timor-Leste.…

Migration Amendment (Australia Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty Visa) Regulations 2025

February 24, 2025

The Migration Amendment (Australia Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty Visa) Regulations 2025 (the Regulations) amends the Migration Regulations 1994 to implement Australia’s commitment under the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty, which was signed on 9 November 2023 and entered into force on 28 August 2024. The treaty establishes a partnership between Australia…

Important Update on Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) Amendments

February 18, 2025

The Administrative Review Tribunal (Consequential and Transitional Provisions No. 1) Amendment Rules 2025 have been introduced to repeal Section 13 of the 2024 Transitional Rules. Key Changes: Previously, individuals in immigration detention had seven working days to apply for a review of migration or protection decisions under Section 347(3)(a) of…

Understanding the ENS (Employer Nomination Scheme) Subclass 186, TRT, and Subclass 494 (Pathway to PR via Subclass 191)

February 10, 2025

The Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Subclass 186 is one of the key pathways for skilled workers to gain permanent residency in Australia. The Subclass 186 visa is designed for skilled workers who are nominated by their employer. This visa provides a direct route to permanent residency, offering the flexibility to…

A Complete Guide to Australian Partner Visas

February 10, 2025

Australian partner visas allow eligible individuals to join their partner or spouse in Australia. Whether you’re married or in a de facto relationship, the partner visa is a combined application that initially grants temporary residency (Subclass 309 or 820) and leads to permanent residency (Subclass 100 or 801). Types of…

Navigating the Australian Parent Visa Pathways

February 10, 2025

Australia offers several visa options for parents who wish to join their children and live in Australia. These visas cater to different circumstances, including temporary, contributory, and non-contributory categories. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the parent visa options. Types of Parent Visas 1. Permanent Parent Visas:…

Subclass 407 Visa: Your Comprehensive Guide to Sponsorship, Nomination, and Application

February 10, 2025

The Subclass 407 visa, also known as the “Training Visa,” is an excellent option for individuals who wish to enhance their skills and gain practical experience in Australia. This visa allows foreign nationals to participate in a structured training program or professional development within an Australian organization. However, the Subclass…

Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482): Your Complete Guide

February 10, 2025

On December 7, 2024, the Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) officially replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. This change is part of Australia’s revamped migration strategy aimed at meeting critical labour demands while offering clear pathways to Permanent Residency (PR). The new visa system incorporates three streams: Core…

Summary of Ministerial Direction No. 111: Changes to Student Visa Processing

December 19, 2024

The Department of Home Affairs has introduced Ministerial Direction No. 111 (MD111), which came into effect on 19 December 2024, replacing Ministerial Direction No. 107 (MD107). This updated direction aims to enhance fairness, sustainability, and integrity within Australia’s international education sector while streamlining visa processing to ensure equity and efficiency.…

Migration Legislation Amendment (Graduate Visas No. 2) Instrument (LIN 24/086) 2024

December 15, 2024

Important Updates to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) The Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas No. 2) Instrument (LIN 24/086) 2024 introduces significant refinements to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), particularly in the Post-Higher Education Work (PHEW) stream. These amendments aim to streamline academic requirements and enhance the pathway for…

Migration Amendment (Relevant Assessing Authorities and Other Matters) Instrument 2024

December 15, 2024

The Migration Amendment (Relevant Assessing Authorities and Other Matters) Instrument 2024 introduces several updates to Australia’s skilled migration framework. The key changes include amendments to legislative instruments governing skills assessments, occupation specifications, and caveats under skilled visa programs. This instrument simplifies regulatory references, removes caveats limiting occupations based on international…

Improved Visa Framework for Religious Workers

December 13, 2024

Effective from 13 December 2024, the updated Minister of Religion Labour Agreement (MoRLA) introduces significant enhancements to skilled migration pathways for religious organisations in Australia. These changes aim to provide a streamlined and inclusive framework for faith-based institutions while maintaining robust worker protections. Key Updates: Pathway to Permanent Residence: Religious…

Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas No. 2) Regulations 2024

December 13, 2024

The Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas No. 2) Regulations 2024 introduces significant updates to the Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) visa, specifically focusing on the Post-Higher Education Work (PHEW) stream. These changes aim to simplify the visa criteria, streamline eligibility, and ensure alignment with the broader Migration Strategy reforms. Key Updates: Redefinition…

Migration Amendment (Family Violence Provisions and Other Measures) Regulations 2024

December 13, 2024

The Migration Amendment (Family Violence Provisions and Other Measures) Regulations 2024 introduce critical changes aimed at safeguarding visa applicants experiencing family violence. These changes expand the family violence provisions to include 11 additional visa subclasses, such as Parent, Business Talent, and Contributory Parent visas. The amendments allow secondary applicants to…

Migration Amendment (Subclass 070 (Bridging (Removal Pending)) Visa) Regulations 2024

December 13, 2024

The Migration Amendment (Subclass 070 Bridging (Removal Pending)) Visa) Regulations 2024 introduces significant updates to visa regulations for non-citizens released from detention under section 195A of the Migration Act 1958. These changes aim to enhance community safety and ensure compliance with Australian immigration laws. Key Updates: Expanded Eligibility: Non-citizens granted…

Migration Amendment (Labour Agreement Requirements (Subclass 186, 482 and 494 Visas)) Regulations 2024

December 13, 2024

The Migration Amendment (Labour Agreement Requirements) Regulations 2024 introduces critical updates to the skilled migration framework for the Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme), Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand), and Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional) visas. Key Updates: Employers operating under labour agreements now have enhanced flexibility to tailor criteria…

Clarification on Caveat 14 and Its Impact on Occupations on the CSOL

December 9, 2024

The Department of Home Affairs has provided clarity on Caveat 14, addressing concerns regarding its interpretation in relation to the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL). This caveat applies to positions “not provided for under an International Trade Obligation (ITO)” and was initially intended to highlight occupations included on the CSOL…

Migration (Specification of Occupations – Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024

December 9, 2024

The Australian Government has implemented the Migration (Specification of Occupations—Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024 (LIN 24/089), effective 7 December 2024. This instrument introduces the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) as part of the migration reform framework for the new Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) Visa, enhancing accessibility and aligning skilled…

Migration (Arrangements for Employer Nomination and Regional Employer Nomination Skilled Visas) Instrument 2024

December 9, 2024

The Australian Government has implemented the Migration (Arrangements for Employer Nomination and Regional Employer Nomination Skilled Visas) Instrument 2024 (LIN 24/092), effective 7 December 2024. These amendments refine the processes for the Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) and Subclass 187 (Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme) visas, ensuring improved accessibility and efficiency…

Migration (Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities – Subclass 186 Visa) Instrument 2024

December 9, 2024

The Australian Government has introduced the Migration (Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities—Subclass 186 Visa) Instrument 2024 (LIN 24/093), which takes effect from 7 December 2024. This instrument provides a comprehensive update to the occupations and assessing authorities associated with the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa, aligning with the…

Migration (Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024

December 9, 2024

The Australian Government has introduced the Migration (Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2024 (LIN 24/099), effective 7 December 2024. This amendment updates the English language requirements for the new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa, ensuring alignment with Australia’s skilled migration framework. Revised English Test RequirementsThe language test…

Migration Update: Introduction of the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa

December 5, 2024

The Migration Amendment (2024 Measures No. 1) Regulations 2024, effective from 7 December 2024, introduces significant reforms to Australia’s skilled migration framework. This update replaces the Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) visa with the new Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa, aligning with the Government’s focus on addressing critical skills…

Update on Migration Arrangements for Business Skills Visas

December 5, 2024

The Migration (Arrangements for Certain Business Skills Visas) Amendment (LIN 24/078) Instrument 2024 has been introduced to support the implementation of the Subclass 858 (National Innovation) visa, effective from 6 December 2024. This amendment ensures that the application process aligns with the updated framework for the National Innovation Visa. Key…

News Update: National Innovation Visa Introduced

December 5, 2024

The Migration Amendment (National Innovation Visa) Regulations 2024 came into effect on 6 December 2024, marking a significant development in Australia’s skilled migration framework. This amendment aims to enhance Australia’s ability to attract exceptional global talent and align the migration program with the nation’s economic priorities. Key Changes: The Subclass…

Migration (Specification of Study and English Language Requirements (Subclass 403 (MATES Stream) Visa) (LIN 24/072) Instrument 2024

November 11, 2024

The Migration (Specification of Study and English Language Requirements (LIN 24/072) Instrument 2024 introduces the Mobility Arrangements for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) under the Subclass 403 Temporary Work (International Relations) visa. This initiative, effective from November 2024, aligns with Australia’s commitment to the Migration & Mobility Partnership Arrangement with India.…

Migration (Arrangements for Temporary Work (International Relations) (Class GD) visa applications) Amendment Instrument (LIN 24/070) 2024

November 11, 2024

The Migration (Arrangements for Temporary Work (International Relations) (Class GD) visa applications) Amendment Instrument (LIN 24/070) 2024 makes key updates to the Migration Regulations related to the Subclass 403 visa. The amendments are part of Australia’s commitment to implementing the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES). This initiative…

Migration (Subclass 403 (MATES Stream) Visa Pre-application Process) Determination (LIN 24/069) 2024

November 11, 2024

Australia’s latest move in streamlining visa applications has introduced the Migration (Subclass 403 (MATES Stream) Visa Pre-application Process) Determination (LIN 24/069) 2024. This legislative change focuses on the new Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES), specifically targeting young Indian professionals. Under this scheme, participants aged 18 to 30 can…

Migration (Visa Pre-application Process) Charge Amendment (Mobility Arrangements for Talented Early-professionals Scheme) Regulations 2024

November 11, 2024

The “Migration Visa Pre-Application Process Charge Amendment – Mobility Arrangements for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES) Regulations 2024” introduces a new pre-application process fee for skilled visa applicants under the MATES scheme. This amendment aims to streamline the assessment of visa applicants by implementing a preliminary evaluation process before formal applications…

Migration Amendment (Mobility Arrangements for Talented Early-professionals Scheme) Regulations 2024 (MATES)

November 11, 2024

The Migration Amendment (Mobility Arrangements for Talented Early-professionals Scheme) Regulations 2024 introduces a new visa stream under the bilateral arrangement between Australia and India. Known as the “MATES” visa, this initiative provides 3,000 temporary visas annually for recent Indian graduates in key fields such as artificial intelligence, financial technology, and…

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