Australia Immigration Rule Changes in 2026

Australia is still making changes to its immigration system to better match the needs of the labor market, make the system more secure, and make it easier to get permanent residency. Here are the most important changes to immigration rules that will affect applicants in 2025.

A quick look

Starting in late 2024, the Australian government made a number of big changes that will have a direct impact on applications submitted in 2025. These changes affect visas for employers, skilled workers, students, and temporary graduates.

People who want to move to, study in, or work in Australia should read the updates below carefully to learn about the requirements for eligibility, documentation, and compliance.

Important Changes to Australia's Immigration Rules (Starting in 2025)

1. Skills in Demand Visa (Replaces Subclass 482)

The Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa was officially replaced by the Skills in Demand visa on December 7, 2024.

This new visa makes it easier for people to move to another country with the help of their employer and makes it easier for people to get permanent residency through the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).

The Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) tells you who is eligible.

2. The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) went up.

The TSMIT has gone up from AUD 70,000 to AUD 73,150.

This new salary limit must be met by all new employer-sponsored nominations, or the market salary rate that applies, whichever is higher.

3. Changes to the rules for the 482, 457, and 494 visas

The Australian government has changed the rules for employer-sponsored visas to:

• Stop taking advantage of workers
• Make sure sponsors follow the rules
• Make it easier for visa holders to change jobs.

These changes are part of bigger changes to the migration system.

4. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – More English Needed

The English language requirement for the Temporary Graduate visa has gone up to:

• Overall, IELTS 6.5, with
• At least 5.5 in each band (or test scores that are the same)

This is true for applications that meet the new rules and are submitted.

5. Review of the Skilled Migration Points Test

The Skilled Migration Points Test is being looked at right now to make it easier to attract highly skilled immigrants.

This review has an effect on visas that are points-tested, like:

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)
• Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated)
• Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional)

As part of Australia's long-term immigration plan, more improvements are expected.

6. Less work experience needed for employer-sponsored visas

Starting on November 23, 2024, the requirement for work experience for employer-sponsored visas was cut from two years to one year. This made it easier for skilled workers to qualify.

Changes to Student and Graduate Visas

Higher Requirement for Financial Capacity

From May 10, 2024, international students and people applying for student guardian visas must show that they have more money than the national minimum wage in Australia.

Changes to the English Language Requirement

As part of bigger changes to migration integrity that started in 2024 and were used for 2025 lodgements, the English language requirements for student and temporary graduate visas were changed.

Summary of Changes

• The Subclass 482 visa has been replaced by the Skills in Demand visa.
• TSMIT went up to AUD 73,150.
• Better protections for workers and responsibilities for sponsors
• Temporary Graduate visas need better English skills
• Review of the skilled migration points test
• Less work experience needed for employer-sponsored visas
• Student visas need more proof of financial stability

Footer: Visas Avenue—News about immigration to Australia

Updated: January 2026

This information is only meant to be a general guide and should not be taken as legal advice. Changes can be made to Australian immigration laws and policies. Before applying, applicants should read the official Department of Home Affairs guidelines or talk to a registered migration professional.

© Visas Avenue. All rights are reserved.