Visa changes commencing July 1, 2025

Visa changes commencing July 1, 2025

Several specific visa categories will be significantly affected by the new Australian immigration changes starting July 1, 2025. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key visas impacted and how they will change:

1. Employer-Sponsored Work Visas

a) Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) → Replaced by "Skills in Demand" Visa

What’s changing?
The 482 visa will be phased out and replaced by the new 3-tiered "Skills in Demand" visa.

• Specialist Skills Pathway ($135,000+ salary, fast-tracked processing).
• Core Skills Pathway ($73,150–$135,000, standard processing).
• Essential Skills Pathway (lower-paid critical jobs, stricter caps).

Who’s affected?
Current 482 holders may transition to the new system upon renewal.
Lower-paid workers (e.g., hospitality, retail) may no longer qualify.

b) Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme – ENS) & Subclass 494 (Regional Sponsored)

What’s changing?
TSMIT increase to $73,150 (employers must pay at least this).
Faster PR pathway: 2 years (down from 3) for 482/494 visa holders.

Who’s affected?
Employers sponsoring workers in mid-to-low salary roles.
Workers needing PR after employer sponsorship.

2. Points-Based Skilled Visas

a) Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa)
b) Subclass 190 (State Nominated Visa)
c) Subclass 491 (Regional Visa)

What’s changing?
Updated points test: More points for PhDs, regional jobs, younger applicants.
Fewer points for applicants over 40.
Higher English requirements (e.g., IELTS 6.5+).

Who’s affected?
Older applicants (40+) may struggle to qualify.
Those without strong English or higher education.

3. Student & Graduate Visas

a) Subclass 500 (Student Visa)

What’s changing?
Stricter English requirements (higher IELTS/PTE scores).
Work rights may be tied to skills shortages (e.g., STEM grads get more flexibility).

Who’s affected?
Students in non-priority fields (e.g., business, hospitality) may face restrictions.

b) Subclass 485 (Post-Study Work Visa)

What’s changing?
PR pathways adjusted based on skills demand.
Possible reduction in work rights for non-critical fields.

Who’s affected?
Graduates in oversaturated fields (e.g., general business).

4. Family & Parent Visas

a) Subclass 143/864 (Contributory Parent Visas)

What’s changing?
Higher fees but faster processing (~3 years instead of 5+).

Who’s affected?
Families who can afford the increased costs.

b) Subclass 103 (Non-Contributory Parent Visa)

What’s changing?
No major changes, but waiting times remain 10+ years.

Who’s affected?
Those unwilling/unable to pay for contributory visas.

5. Partner Visas (Subclass 820/801 & 309/100)

What’s changing?
Higher application fees (estimated ~$9,500, up from $8,850).
Stronger scrutiny on genuine relationships.

Who’s affected?
Couples applying after July 2025 (higher costs).

6. Temporary Graduate & Work Holiday Visas

a) Subclass 417/462 (Working Holiday Visa)

What’s changing?
Possible caps on extensions (to prevent long-term stays without PR pathways).

Who’s affected?
Backpackers wanting multiple years in Australia.

b) Subclass 408 (COVID Visa) → Being Phased Out

What’s changing?
No further extensions for most applicants.

Who’s affected?
Temporary workers relying on this visa must switch to another (e.g., 482 replacement).

Summary of Most Affected Visas

Visa Category	Key Changes	Who Should Act?
Subclass 482 (TSS)	Replaced by "Skills in Demand" visa	Workers & employers must check new salary tiers.
Subclass 186/494	Higher TSMIT ($73,150), faster PR	Employers & sponsored workers.
Subclass 189/190/491	New points test, stricter English	Skilled migrants must reassess eligibility.
Subclass 500 (Student)	Tighter work rights, higher English	Students in non-priority fields.
Subclass 485 (Graduate)	PR pathways tied to skills demand	Graduates in oversaturated fields.
Partner/Parent Visas	Higher fees, longer waits	Families budgeting for higher costs.

Contact SDC Immigration lawyers for a personalised advice.