Australian Immigration – July 2025 Recap
Australian Immigration – July 2025 Recap
Australian Immigration – July Recap
As we step into the new financial year, the pace has picked up considerably, setting a dynamic tone for the months ahead. July has brought with it a flurry of activity across all fronts—our own operations have ramped up to meet increasing demands.
Among the most significant developments this month are several key immigration updates that range from updated skilled migration thresholds, to fee increases and processing times. We’re closely monitoring these changes to ensure our clients remain well-informed and well-prepared.
Internally, we’ve also experienced a wave of transformation with an exciting new addition to our team, as well as a heartfelt farewell. These shifts reflect our ongoing commitment to growth, adaptability, and delivering the highest level of service.
In this edition, we’ll unpack these changes in more detail and share insights into what they mean for you moving forward.
In This Edition:
- New Income Threshold for Core and Specialist Skills 482 Visa
- VETASSESS CPI Fee Increase – October 2025
- Visa and SBS Processing Delays – Update
- NSW & VIC Nominations for the National Innovation Visa are now available
- FCM Team Updates
New Income Threshold for Core and Specialist Skills 482 Visa
Temporary Skills Shortage (Subclass 482)
50% of applications processed within 7 months; 90% of applications processed within 11 months.
Skills in Demand (Subclass 482)
50% of applications processed within 57 days; 90% of applications processed within 4 months.
Employer Nomination Scheme – Direct Entry (Subclass 186)
50% of applications processed within 6 months; 90% of applications processed within 17 months.
Employer Nomination Scheme – Temporary Residence Transition (Subclass 186)
50% of applications processed within 14 months; 90% of applications processed within 17 months.
Visa applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Processing times are impacted by cases that are complex, changes to the volume of applications and changes to Ministerial Directions. The above estimated timeframes are based on how long it has taken to process recently finalised applications.
VETASSESS CPI Fee Increase – 22nd October 2025
* These fees do not include Australian Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Visa and Standard Business Sponsorship (SBS) Delays – Update
Temporary Skills Shortage (Subclass 482)
50% of applications processed within 7 months; 90% of applications processed within 11 months.
Skills in Demand (Subclass 482)
50% of applications processed within 57 days; 90% of applications processed within 79 days – 4 months.
Employer Nomination Scheme – Direct Entry (Subclass 186)
50% of applications processed within 6 months; 90% of applications processed within 12 – 18 months.
Employer Nomination Scheme – Temporary Residence Transition (Subclass 186)
50% of applications processed within 14 months; 90% of applications processed within 14 – 17 months.
Visa applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Processing times are impacted by cases that are complex, changes to the volume of applications and changes to Ministerial Directions. The above estimated timeframes are based on how long it has taken to process recently finalised applications.
Additionally, Standard Business Sponsorships (SBS), have seen extensive delays, some taking up to five months to be processed. However, this last week we have seen a large amount of approvals for applications lodged May/June, so we are hopeful the processing times will reduce back down to the normal 2-4 weeks
National Innovation Visa
The National Innovation visa (subclass 858) (NIV) is a permanent visa for exceptionally talented people from around the world. These people help create jobs and drive productivity in key sectors of Australia’s economy.
The visa seeks established and emerging leaders with high-calibre talent and skills who can make significant contributions to Australia’s future prosperity.
This includes:
- Global researchers
- Entrepreneurs
- Innovative investors
- Athletes and creatives
Great news! Expressions of interest for NSW and VIC nominees are open! If you think you’d be a fantastic candidate for this visa, send us your CV. We would be happy to review it and guide you through the process!
FCM Team Update
During July we had a few changes to our FCM team…
Farewell & Best Wishes, Meg!
Our Client Support Specialist Meg is off onto new adventures, firstly to Europe and then to embark on a new career as a Flight Attendant, and we’re so excited for her!
We wish you nothing but success and happiness in whatever comes next.
Welcome to the team, Kris!
Kris brings ahigh level of efficiency, professionalism, and warmth to her role as Operations & Executive Support Manager.
We wish you every success in your new role with the FCM team!
How We Can Help
At First Class Migration Australia, we understand that navigating these changes can be overwhelming. Our team of highly experienced migration agents are here to guide you through the evolving migration policies, offering personalised advice to maximize your chances of successful migration. We stay up to date with the latest developments and provide timely advice to ensure you make informed decisions.
Contact Us
If you have any questions on the above article please do not hesitate to contact us.
02 9999 6668
