News

Headlines from immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media.

• Department updates global visa processing times for the quarter

  27/04/2026

  A reminder that processing times are based on actual visas finalised in the previous month and are presented as a guide only — individual circumstances may vary.

• Skilled occupation list refresh: changes to in-demand roles

  21/04/2026

  Several occupations have been added to and removed from the Skilled Occupation List. Applicants are encouraged to review the latest list before lodging.

• New regional visa pathway for healthcare and agriculture workers

  13/04/2026

  A pilot pathway has been opened to support employers in regional Australia. Eligibility criteria, sponsorship rules and points calculations are detailed.

• English language requirements: accepted test providers for 2026

  06/04/2026

  The list of approved English language tests has been refreshed. Test scores remain valid for three years from the date of the test.

• Australian Immi App now available in 47 countries

  01/04/2026

  Travelling to Australia is simpler with the continued expansion of the Australian Immi App.

• Health requirement updates and panel physician network changes

  30/03/2026

  Applicants required to undergo health examinations should review the most recent guidance on panel physicians and accepted documentation.

• Travel to Australia temporarily restricted for Iranian Visitor visa holders

  25/03/2026

  Temporary travel restrictions are now in place for most people outside Australia who have a Subclass 600 Visitor visa linked to their Iranian passport.

• Systems maintenance 27 March – 29 March 2026

  16/03/2026

  We will be doing systems maintenance from 8:30 pm (AEDT) Friday 27 March 2026 to 5 pm (AEDT) Sunday 29 March 2026.

• Changes to Training visa (subclass 407) application requirements

  10/03/2026

  Changes to Training visa (subclass 407) application requirements to ensure program supports genuine skills development as intended.

• Systems maintenance 21 February – 22 February 2026

  19/02/2026

  We will be doing systems maintenance from 8:00 am (AEDT) Saturday 21 February 2026 to 4:00 pm (AEDT) Sunday 22 February 2026.