Starting July 1, 2025, Australia will introduce significant updates to its visa policies affecting skilled migration, student visas, partner visas, and related application fees. These changes will influence work rights, income thresholds, visa processing, and immigration pathways, affecting prospective migrants, international students, and families.
Skilled Migration Income Thresholds Increased to Protect Local Labor Market
The Australian Department of Home Affairs announced a 4.6% increase in income thresholds for skilled migration visas to reflect inflation and current labor market conditions. The Core Skills Income Threshold will rise from AUD 73,150 to AUD 76,515, and the Specialist Skills Income Threshold will increase from AUD 135,000 to AUD 141,210. Temporary regional visas under subclass 494 and permanent regional visas under subclass 187 will also see their minimum income requirements rise to AUD 76,515.
This adjustment aims to prevent underpaid roles being filled by skilled visa holders and to ensure that incoming migrants contribute fairly to the Australian economy. Importantly, these new thresholds apply only to applications submitted on or after July 1, 2025; existing visa holders and previously lodged applications remain unaffected.
Student Visa Financial and Work Hour Requirements Tightened to Support Quality
For international students, the minimum required living funds proof will increase from AUD 24,505 to AUD 29,710, ensuring students can support themselves throughout their studies. Additionally, undergraduate students will be allowed to work up to 24 hours per week, up from the current 20 hours, providing greater opportunity for practical experience and income.
Postgraduate students will benefit from an unlimited work rights policy during their study period. This policy aims to attract highly skilled students and encourage them to remain and contribute to the Australian workforce after graduation.
Visa Application Fees Rise; Partner Visa Process Overhauled
From July 1, 2025, international student visa application fees will increase from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000, although applicants from Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste are exempt from this change. Citizenship application fees will also rise: general eligibility citizenship fees will go up from AUD 560 to AUD 575, and citizenship by descent fees will increase from AUD 360 to AUD 370.
Significant reforms are also underway for partner visa applications. The previously lengthy processing times for subclass 820 partner visas — ranging from 9 to 18 months — will be streamlined. Under the new system, applicants can submit a single comprehensive application that simultaneously assesses eligibility for both temporary and permanent residency. A new online system for document submission and application tracking will enhance transparency and convenience, reducing both financial and time burdens on applicants.
Family reunion visa fees are also subject to changes, with costs varying by visa category. For example, the Sponsored Parent Temporary Visa will cost AUD 5,735 for a three-year visa and AUD 11,470 for five years. The Aged Parent Visa fees stand at AUD 7,055 for the main applicant, AUD 4,650 for applicants over 18, and AUD 3,315 for dependents under 18.
Shift to Multi-Year Immigration Planning Linked to Housing and Infrastructure
Starting in the 2025-26 immigration year, Australia will move from annual immigration planning to a four-year cycle. This long-term approach is designed to align immigration targets with infrastructure, housing, and public service development plans at federal and state levels.
Housing availability will become a key factor in setting immigration numbers to ensure sustainable population growth that matches resource capacity and avoids excessive strain on services and property markets.
What This Means for Applicants
These comprehensive policy adjustments will affect a wide range of visa applicants, including skilled workers, international students, and family members. Prospective migrants and students should closely monitor official Australian immigration updates and plan applications accordingly to meet the new requirements.
Overall, these changes aim to improve the quality of migration, protect the local workforce, and ensure that immigration supports Australia’s long-term social and economic goals. Applicants are encouraged to prepare carefully and seek updated guidance to navigate these evolving rules successfully.
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