Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program: A Complete GuideAustralia Cuts Migration – What the 2025 Intake Reductions Mean for You
Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program sets the permanent intake at 185,000 places. Explore skilled visas, partner visas, family stream allocations, and key opportunities for PR in Australia.
GENERAL
9/5/20254 min read
Introduction
Australia has officially released its 2025–26 Migration Program, setting the annual intake at 185,000 places. This program shapes how skilled workers, families, and distinguished talent can secure permanent residency in Australia. For migrants, it’s more than just numbers — it’s a roadmap to building a life in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
The allocation of places between skilled and family categories reflects Australia’s priorities: addressing skill shortages, supporting economic growth, and reuniting families. For anyone considering migration, understanding this program is essential.
If you are planning your migration journey, now is the time to align your visa strategy with the 2025–26 Migration Program.
Overview of the 2025–26 Migration Program
Skill Stream (132,200 Places)
The Skill Stream remains the largest category, reflecting Australia’s ongoing need for talent across industries. Here’s the detailed breakdown:
Employer Sponsored – 44,000 Places
The Employer Sponsored visa pathway allows Australian businesses to fill critical roles that cannot be met locally. Popular subclasses include:
• 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa
• 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
This stream addresses labour shortages in health, construction, engineering, and IT. For many, it provides a direct pathway to permanent residency.
Skilled Independent – 16,900 Places
The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) is for highly qualified applicants who do not need state, territory, or employer sponsorship. It is points-tested and highly competitive, making it one of the most prestigious visas.
Applicants with strong English skills, high qualifications, and work experience in demand occupations stand the best chance.
Regional Visas – 33,000 Places
Australia is strongly encouraging migration to regional areas. The key visas here are:
• 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional)
• 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional)
Regional visas come with added incentives such as priority processing and access to permanent residency after three years of living and working in regional Australia.
State Nominated – 33,000 Places
The Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) is for migrants nominated by an Australian state or territory. Each state has its own occupation list and invitation process.
This stream remains a vital option for applicants who may not have enough points for the 189 visa but can secure a state nomination.
Business & Investment – 1,000 Places
This stream, through visas like the 188 Business Innovation and Investment visa, encourages entrepreneurs and investors to contribute to Australia’s economy. The relatively low allocation highlights the government’s tighter focus on genuine investors with proven business track records.
Global Talent – 4,300 Places
The Global Talent visa (subclass 858) targets world-class professionals in priority sectors such as technology, renewable energy, health, and academia.
This pathway provides a fast-track to permanent residency for individuals who can demonstrate outstanding achievements and international recognition.
Family Stream (52,500 Places)
The Family Stream ensures Australians can reunite with loved ones. Here’s the allocation for 2025–26:
Partner Visas – 40,500 Places
The Partner visa subclasses 309/100 and 820/801 allow spouses and de facto partners of Australian citizens and permanent residents to migrate.
This remains the single largest category within the Family Stream, reaffirming the government’s commitment to family unity.
Parent Visas – 8,500 Places
Parent visas are divided into Contributory and Non-contributory categories. Contributory visas, while more expensive, have shorter processing times. The allocation of 8,500 places signals continued demand for family reunification.
Child Visas – 3,000 Places
The Child visa program supports the migration of dependent children to Australia. While smaller in number, these visas are essential for family stability.
Other Family – 500 Places
This category includes visas such as the Remaining Relative visa and Carer visa, covering special family circumstances.
Special Eligibility (300 Places)
This stream covers the Distinguished Talent visa and other unique cases. Though small in number, these visas are designed for individuals with exceptional achievements in areas like sports, arts, research, or academia.
Comparison with the 2024–25 Migration Program
The 2024–25 Migration Program also had a total cap of 185,000 places, with similar distribution. However, the emphasis on skilled migration remains strong:
•The Skill Stream continues to dominate, accounting for over 70% of the total intake.
•The Family Stream remains steady, with most places dedicated to Partner visas.
•Business and investment allocations remain small, showing the government’s selective approach.
Overall, the 2025–26 program is consistent with the previous year, reinforcing Australia’s dual focus on economic growth through skills and family reunification.
Key Opportunities for Migrants
• Regional migration pathways – with strong incentives.
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Migrants with qualifications in health, engineering, construction, and IT have particularly strong prospects.
The biggest opportunities in 2025–26 are in:
• Employer Sponsored visas – addressing skill shortages.
• Partner visas – the largest family category.
• Global Talent visas – for professionals in priority industries.
How to Apply Successfully
Applying under the Migration Program requires careful preparation:
1. Check eligibility early – Review visa subclasses and occupation lists.
2. Prepare documents – Academic qualifications, English test results, work references.
3. Meet English and health requirements – Mandatory for all visas.
4. Consider professional advice – A registered migration agent can guide you through the process and improve your chances of success.
5. Plan for timelines – Some visas (like Parent visas) have long waiting periods, while others (like Global Talent) can be processed faster.
Contact Millennium Migration for expert consultation and a tailored migration strategy.
Conclusion
Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program offers 185,000 opportunities for skilled workers, families, and distinguished talent to build their future in Australia. With the majority of places allocated to skilled migration and a strong focus on family reunification, this program reflects Australia’s ongoing priorities.
For those planning to migrate, the message is clear: prepare early, understand your visa options, and act strategically.
For personalised advice and expert support, contact Millennium Migration — guiding clients through Australian visas with over 16 years of experience.
How We Can Help
At Millennium Migration, we provide expert legal and strategic advice to help you navigate these upcoming changes. Whether you’re applying for skilled migration, a partner visa, or PR through the 485 stream, we’ve helped hundreds succeed—and we’re ready to help you too.
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