Australia Announces Major Immigration Reforms Effective July 1, 2025

2025-08-11 10:40:05 Legal / Law

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Canberra, Australia — The Australian Government has officially announced significant changes to its immigration system, effective from July 1, 2025. These reforms, part of the national Migration Strategy, are designed to better align migration with the country's economic priorities, address skill shortages, and ensure system integrity.

Key Changes at a Glance

1. Skilled Migration – New “Skills in Demand” Visa
Australia’s current Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa will be replaced by the new Skills in Demand visa, featuring three targeted streams:
• Core Skills Stream: Aimed at medium-term occupations with a new minimum salary threshold of AUD 76,515.
• Specialist Skills Stream: For high-earning professionals in niche sectors with salaries starting from AUD 141,210.
• Essential Skills Stream: Will support key labour shortages under negotiated agreements, details to follow.
The annual salary thresholds for skilled migration will now be indexed to average wage growth, ensuring relevance to economic conditions.

2. Student Visa Reforms
Australia is introducing tighter controls and increased requirements for international students:
• Visa application fee increases from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000.
• Financial capacity requirement rises to AUD 29,710, ensuring students can support themselves.
• Work hours for undergraduate students increase to 24 hours/week; postgraduate students will enjoy unrestricted work rights.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) must be provided at the time of visa application.
• Total annual student intake will be capped, with priority given to higher education institutions.

3. Family and Parent Visas
In a bid to simplify and expedite family migration:
• The Partner visa will shift to a single-stage process, removing the need for a temporary visa before permanent residency.
• New temporary parent visa options (3 and 5 years) will offer flexible pathways, including potential eligibility for permanent residency.

4. Points System and Occupation Lists
Australia’s points-based system for skilled migration has been updated to prioritize experienced professionals:
• More points for longer work experience and Australian qualifications.
• A new Skills Priority List will replace the existing occupation lists, reflecting real-time labour market demand.

5. Regional Migration Enhancements

To promote population and workforce growth outside major cities:
• Skilled migrants choosing to settle in regional areas will benefit from enhanced visa options, faster processing, and priority pathways to permanent residency.

Implications for Applicants
Category Impact
Skilled Workers Must meet new salary and occupation thresholds.
Students Need to demonstrate stronger financial capacity and compliance.
Families Benefit from streamlined partner visas and new parent visa pathways.
Regional Migrants Receive incentives and priority processing.

Government Statement
A spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs stated:
"These reforms mark a critical shift toward a fairer, smarter, and more responsive migration system. We are investing in skilled talent, strengthening integrity, and building pathways that meet Australia's long-term needs."

Next Steps for Migrants

Prospective migrants, students, and families are encouraged to:
1. Review their eligibility under the new criteria.
2. Prepare updated documentation and financial proofs.
3. Engage with registered migration agents or legal professionals for application guidance.
4. Apply early due to possible intake limits and higher processing volumes.

For more information about New Immigration Rules, visit https://www.immigrationxperts.com/blog/new-immigration-rules-for-australia-from-july-1-2025/ or contact us at +91-9999 467686.

For further media enquiries:
[Manish Srivastava]
[Director]
Apical Immigration Experts
Mobile: +91-9999-467676
Email: info@immigrationxperts.com
Website: www.immigrationxperts.com