Australian Migration Update: Visa Changes in October 2026
October has brought several important changes to Australia’s migration system, particularly for international students, skilled workers and visa holders facing character-related issues.
Here is a quick rundown of the major developments and what they could mean for you.
1. Major Changes to Student Visa Applications
From 2 October 2026, new rules have significantly restricted who can apply for a Student visa (subclass 500) while in Australia.
Under the new arrangements:
- More applicants must apply offshore. Holders of several temporary visas, including Working Holiday (subclass 417 and 462), Training (subclass 407) and Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visas, must now apply for a Student visa from outside Australia.
- Further Student visa applications are restricted. Existing Student visa holders generally cannot apply for another Student visa while in Australia unless they qualify for an exemption, such as certain course progression arrangements or needing additional time to complete their studies.
- Family members face tighter restrictions. Students can generally no longer include family members in their applications unless an exemption applies. Family members also cannot be added after the Student visa has been granted.
These changes apply to applications lodged on or after 2 October 2026. Applications lodged before that date will generally continue to be assessed under the previous rules.
What this means: If you are already studying in Australia, planning to change courses or hoping to bring family members, it is important to check how the new rules affect your options before making any decisions.
2. New Processing Priorities for Skilled Visas
The Australian Government has introduced two new Ministerial Directions, effective 19 September 2026, changing how certain skilled visa applications are prioritised.
The changes give greater processing priority to occupations in priority sectors, including healthcare, teaching, construction and other industries experiencing workforce shortages.
The new arrangements affect Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visas, as well as certain permanent and provisional skilled visas.
While priority processing does not guarantee a faster decision in every case, the changes may benefit applicants working in occupations that Australia urgently needs.
3. Changes to Visa Cancellation and Character Decisions
From 31 October 2026, a new Ministerial Direction 123 will replace the existing Direction 110, changing how decision-makers assess certain visa refusals and cancellations on character grounds.
One notable change is that a person’s ties to Australia, including family and community connections, will no longer be treated as a primary consideration, although they will remain relevant.
The new Direction also places greater emphasis on certain types of offending and risks to the Australian community.
What this means: Visa holders with criminal histories or who are facing character-related concerns should seek legal advice early, as these changes may affect how their circumstances are assessed.
4. State Skilled Migration Programs: Latest Updates
There have also been developments across several state and territory nomination programs for the 2026–27 migration year.
- Victoria: New fees have been introduced for Registrations of Interest and state nomination applications. Victoria has also published its points-based ranking system, which considers factors such as age, English proficiency, work experience and earnings.
- New South Wales: The subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa program has opened, with an updated occupations list and invitation rounds commencing in October.
- Australian Capital Territory: The ACT has conducted its latest subclass 190 invitation round, issuing 261 invitations on 12 October 2026.
For skilled migrants considering state nomination, keeping your Expression of Interest and supporting documents up to date remains important.
Need Advice About Your Visa Options?
Australia’s migration rules continue to evolve, and even relatively small changes can have a significant impact on your visa pathway.
Whether you are an international student, skilled worker, employer or existing visa holder, Tang Law’s Migration Law team can help you understand the latest requirements and plan your next steps.
Contact our team to discuss your circumstances and available options.
