Australia’s immigration policies continue to adapt to meet the nation’s economic priorities while ensuring secure and sustainable migration systems. In 2025, several significant updates were introduced across skilled, student, family, and humanitarian visa categories, affecting individuals, families, international students, and skilled migrants. These changes highlight the government’s ongoing efforts to streamline programs and align them with national development goals. Below is an overview of the major visa reforms and policy updates introduced up to July 2025.
Skilled Migration Program: Building Australia’s Workforce
The skilled migration stream saw essential revisions in 2025 to address skill shortages and strengthen Australia’s economic future. Updates include increased income thresholds for skilled visa applicants, more places for employer-sponsored migrants, and a focus on high-demand industries.
1. Higher Income Thresholds for Skilled Visas
From July 1 2025, the income threshold for skilled visa applicants increased by 4.6%, in line with the AWOTE (Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings) index.
- Skilled migrants applying for the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa must now meet higher salary requirements.
- Sectors such as IT, healthcare, and engineering are expected to benefit from this move, as the policy aims to attract top talent while maintaining fair wage standards.
The increase ensures that skilled workers contribute effectively to Australia’s economic growth and competitiveness.
2. Migration Program Planning for 2024–25
The permanent Migration Program is set at 185,000 places, distributed as follows:
- Skill Stream: 132,200 places (71%)
- Family Stream: 52,500 places (28%)
- Special Eligibility: 300 places
Employer-Sponsored visas have seen an allocation increase to 44,000 places (up from 36,825 in 2023–24), supporting the transition of temporary workers to permanent residency.
Student Visa Program: Focus on Quality and Compliance
Australia remains a preferred study destination, but new measures introduced in 2025 aim to strengthen the integrity and sustainability of the student visa system.
1. Changes to Onshore Student Visa Applications
From January 1 2025, onshore applicants must provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) instead of a Letter of Offer. This ensures that only genuine students with confirmed admission to Australian institutions are eligible to apply.
2. Increase in Visa Application Fees
The student visa fee rose from $710 to $1,600 in July 2024 to reflect processing costs and manage the growing demand for international student visas.
3. Cap on International Student Enrolments
As of August 27, 2024, the government capped international tertiary enrollments at 270,000 students annually.
- Universities have been allocated 145,000 places, prioritising quality education and resource allocation.
- Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs also face tighter controls to ensure balance between domestic and international students.
Family and Humanitarian Migration: Supporting Reunification and Refugees
1. Humanitarian Program Consultation 2025–26
The government has launched consultations for the upcoming Humanitarian Program, taking into account global refugee trends and Australia’s capacity to integrate new arrivals. Public and stakeholder input will shape the intake size and structure, with final decisions expected by the end of 2025.
2. Family Visa Allocations
The Family Stream remains at 52,500 places, including:
- Partner Visas: 40,500 places
- Parent Visas: 8,500 places
- Child Visas: 3,000 places
- Other Family: 500 places
Efforts are being made to reduce processing delays and simplify sponsorship procedures.
Visa Processing Times and Efficiency
The Department of Home Affairs is improving processing times using advanced technology and prioritising older applications. As of May 2025:
- Skilled (Permanent): 10 months
- Partner (Provisional): 15 months
- Skilled (Temporary): 98 days
- Student: 29 days
- Visitor & Working Holiday Maker: < 1 day
Looking Ahead: A Multi-Year Migration Model
From 2025 onwards, Australia will transition to a four-year migration planning model, better aligning with long-term infrastructure, housing, and workforce requirements. Public consultations for the 2025–26 intake will determine the final composition, aiming to strike a balance between population growth and economic needs.
Conclusion: Bullseye’s Perspective
We understand how challenging it can be to navigate Australia’s evolving immigration policies. These 2025 updates underscore the importance of accurate guidance and strategic planning. Whether you’re a skilled professional, student, or family applicant, Bullseye – your trusted migration agent in Brisbane – is here to help you take the proper steps to achieve your Australian dream with confidence.
