Biggest Australia Immigration Rule Changes in 2025

Just imagine you are sitting with a plate of Rajma Chawal, but as you are about to take its first bite, someone swaps your plate with 
Biryani and says, “This is what is trending now.”

This is precisely what is happening in Australia’s Immigration in 2025!

 It is still about satisfying your appetite for a new dreamy life, but you must follow the latest rules and a whole new recipe now. 

Basically, Australia has done what actually an Indian family does while preparing a shaadi guest list and prioritizing the members who get invited first.

What’s the actual deal? 

Just think of these immigration changes as Indian shaadi.

Earlier, getting an invite, I mean a visa, depended on how well you matched the criteria like points based on skills, education or work experience.

But as you know, desi parents would definitely reshuffle the guest list to include that one cool Uncle.

Similarly, Australia is now giving more preference to certain applicants over others who are cool (match their eligibility criteria).

And guess who’s on the top of the list? It is Skilled Workers for regional areas.

Big Changes Ahead!

New Skills Visa: Think of  482 visas like old, tarnished clothes that are getting replaced with new ones called “New Skills Visa.

If you are looking to work in Australia, you gotta keep a check in the Core Skill Occupation List (CSOL) that will help you guide eligibility for the Core Skills stream of the new visa.

This will also be applicable to the Direct Entry stream of the Employer Nomination scheme of subclass 186.

TSMIT increase: The salary threshold for temporary skilled workers (TSMIT) has now increased to AUD 73,150 from the previous AUD 70,000.

It is like a shield for the Australian labor market by ensuring adequate compensation for skilled workers.

482,457, and 494 Visa Changes: These visa rules are evolving to put a pause on workers' exploitation and make things more productive.

One huge change: if you lose your job, you now will get more time to find a new sponsor or decide your next steps before you gotta leave. 

Temporary Graduate 485 Visa: If you are planning to go with this one, you will need to level up your English score. 

The fresh requirement in IELTS is 6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5.

Family and Partner Visa Update

Australia is making it easier for families to reunite. Parents' visas are now more accessible, which means you do not need to explain video calls and voice notes forever.

Don’t you think Australia has finally realized that having your family closer is as essential as Achar with your Prathas?

Skilled Migration Points Test: The government is looking over the Skilled Migration Points Test to bring out the most highly skilled candidates to Australia.

This will affect Skilled Visas of subclass 189, 190, and 491.

Reduced Work Experience for 482 Visa: It is good news for those aspirants eyeing the Temporary  Skill shortage. The requirement for work experience is getting easier. 

Earlier, you needed at least 2 years of experience, but now, you need only one for a 482 visa, starting November 23, 2024.

Improvement in Visa Processing Time: The Aussie government is investing in speeding up the processing. 

They are tackling the delays that have been a headache, especially to skilled workers.

The goal is to clear all the backlogs and fasten the process.

New Pathways for Entrepreneurs and Innovators: Big brain time! If you are an AI enthusiast or have a deep passion for fintech or renewable energy, the Global Talent Visa just got a boost. 

The Australian government is making it easier and faster for talented candidates to get visas.

Australia 2024-25 Migration Programm:

The Australian Department of Home Affairs is asking for public feedback to help shape the country’s migration plan for 2024-25.

This program aims to accurately balance economic, social, and demographic goals while prioritizing Australia's long-term interests.

NSW Regional Migration Pathways

New South Wales has introduced enhanced pathways for skilled migrants seeking to live and work in regional areas of the state.

It is specifically for those applying for the Skilled Work Regional (Provincial) Visa subclass 491, which allows skilled workers to reside, work, and study in regional areas for 5 years.

The updated pathways aim to make it easier for skilled migrants to contribute to regional development. 

PR opportunities for Temporary Skilled Workers Expanded!

Australia is expanding its PR opportunities for workers on temporary skilled visas starting from November 25, 2023

The government will introduce changes to the temporary skill shortage (TSS) visa of subclass 482 and the temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186).

These changes are making it easier for Temporary Skilled Workers to transform into permanent residency status, providing a stress-free pathway for those contributing to Australia’s economy on a temporary basis.

This shift is significant as it offers long-term stability and different options for skilled workers.

Finally, Australia’s message is crystal clear that they want skilled workers and people who can contribute to their economy. 

Now it’s time to grab your hat and sunglasses, as Australia is waiting for you!

Ah! Confused with the new immigration rules? Let Stark Visas simplify it for you.

Contact Stark Visas today, and let us make it easier for you.