The Subclass 820 (Partner) visa is fundamentally based on a genuine and continuing relationship. However, Australian migration law provides critical pathways for applicants whose relationship ends due to the death of the sponsor or a finding of family violence.These provisions ensure the applicant is not penalised for circumstances outside their control or forced to remain in an unsafe situation to secure their visa. They allow the Department to waive the requirement to be in a genuine, ongoing relationship at the time of the visa decision.

Great news for visa applicants globally! The Australian Government has taken a significant step towards a more digital and streamlined migration system. As of late 2025, the Australian Immi App has expanded its reach, allowing eligible applicants in 34 countries to complete their biometrics collection directly from their smartphones.

Are you considering applying for a Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) or a Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491)? At Visamigo Lawyers, we often receive similar questions from skilled migrants exploring NSW state nomination. Below, we have addressed the most frequently asked questions to help you understand your eligibility and the process more clearly

Applying for a skills assessment as a University Lecturer can be a complex process, particularly when ensuring that both your qualifications and employment meet the standards set by VETASSESS. This occupation is classified under Group A, meaning that it requires a high level of education and professional experience in a relevant field.

At Visamigo Lawyers, we help applicants prepare strong, evidence-based submissions for skills assessment that comply with all VETASSESS and Department of Home Affairs requirements.

The Skilled Regional Work Visa (subclass 491) is a five-year provisional visa designed for skilled workers who wish to live and work in regional Australia. For those aiming to build a future in Canberra, this visa offers an excellent opportunity — but it requires careful preparation and compliance with both Department of Home Affairs and ACT Government nomination requirements.

Australia has officially launched the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES) - a specialized visa program designed for Indian graduates and early-career professionals with knowledge and skills in targeted fields to live, work, and gain international experience in Australia for up to two years.

NSW Business and Skilled Migration

The NSW Government has announced important interim details for the 2025–26 Skilled Migration Program. These updates will help skilled migrants, employers, and agents prepare for upcoming invitation rounds and nomination opportunities.

From 30 September 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has expanded the use of the Australian Immi App to ten additional countries. This enhancement allows thousands of visa applicants who have previously provided their fingerprint biometrics to access a faster, more affordable and more convenient way to meet their visa requirements.

This development is particularly valuable for travellers seeking to visit or migrate to Australia, as it streamlines the biometric process — a key step in most visa application

The Migration (Specification of Class of Persons) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/091) commenced on 1 October 2025, repealing and replacing the earlier IMMI 15/026.

On 2 September 2025, the Australian Government confirmed that the 2025–26 permanent Migration Program will remain at 185,000 places, the same level as 2024–25. This decision reflects the Government’s focus on maintaining a skills-based migration system that supports Australia’s economy while also providing pathways for family reunification.

 Everything You Need to Know:

Bridging Visa B (Subclass 020) is a temporary visa that allows certain visa applicants in Australia to travel overseas and return while awaiting a decision on their main (substantive) visa application. It is an essential option if you need to leave Australia for a short period without jeopardising your pending visa.

From 7 August 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs introduced changes to accepted English language tests and the scores required for visa applications.

If you are applying for an Australian visa, your application may require you to demonstrate a specific level of English — Functional, Vocational, Competent, Proficient, or Superior. The scores you need, and the tests that are accepted, will depend on:

• The visa subclass you apply for

• When you took your test

• Whether your results are still within their validity period

Why this occupation matters

Retail is one of Australia’s largest employers, and a positive Skills Assessment as a Retail Manager (General) is often the first gateway to both temporary and permanent visa pathways. VETASSESS classifies the role in Group C and expects applicants to demonstrate diploma-level knowledge and significant, hands-on management experience. The information below draws directly from the February 2021 VETASSESS infosheet for this occupation and is correct at that date; requirements can change, so always check the latest guidelines.

Why a skills assessment matters

Before a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or Managing Director (MD) can lodge most skilled-migration or employer-sponsored visa applications, they must secure a positive skills assessment from the Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML) – the official assessing authority for ANZSCO 111111. IML’s decision confirms that your qualifications and experience meet Australian standards and that you genuinely perform the duties of a senior executive. The assessment draws on two published frameworks:

·       the ANZSCO task descriptors; and

·       the Country Education Profiles (CEP) for academic comparability.

What it means for you:

On 4 August 2025, the Albanese Government confirmed a National Planning Level (NPL) of 295,000 new international student places for calendar year 2026 – 25,000 more than the 2025 limit, yet still 8 per cent below the immediate post-COVID peak. The announcement provides welcome certainty for universities, colleges, and—most importantly—prospective students weighing up study options in Australia. ministers.education.gov.au.

Important update:  NSW Government is now accepting Registrations of Interest (ROIs) for the National Innovation Visa (NIV). Don't miss this opportunity to fast-track your future in NSW. 

Insufficient Relationship Evidence

One of the most critical errors in partner visa applications is providing insufficient or weak evidence of the relationship's genuineness. Many applicants underestimate the depth of documentation required, submitting only basic evidence like photographs or a marriage certificate. The Department of Home Affairs requires comprehensive evidence across four key areas: financial, social, household, and commitment aspects.

A de facto relationship for Australian immigration purposes requires couples to demonstrate mutual commitment to a shared life, excluding all others, while living together without being legally married. The relationship must be genuine and continuing, with parties not related by family. Same-sex and opposite-sex couples are equally eligible for de facto partner recognition.

Published: July 2025 – The Department of Home Affairs has quietly switched on a new “paper‑import” feature that lets selected family‑visa applicants pull their hard‑copy files into ImmiAccount and manage them online. The change took effect on 23 July 2025.

Australia remains one of the most sought-after destinations globally, attracting millions of visitors each year for tourism, business, and family visits. The Subclass 600 Visitor Visa provides an accessible and flexible option for individuals looking to enter Australia for short-term stays. Whether you are looking to explore Australia’s landscapes, visit family or friends, or attend a business event, this visa offers a convenient solution. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the Subclass 600 Visitor Visa, including its eligibility criteria, fees, processing times, and other important factors for prospective applicants from around the world.