Australia welcomes 185,000 migrants in 2025–26

Highlights: Australia Sets 185,000 PR Places for 2025–26

• The Australian Government has announced the 2025–26 Migration Program planning levels at 185,000 places, maintaining the same intake as 2024–25.
• The Skill stream accounts for 132,200 places (71%), supporting employer-sponsored, regional, state-nominated, and independent skilled visas.
• The Family stream includes 52,500 places (28%), primarily Partner visas, alongside Parent, Child, and Other Family categories.
• A new National Innovation Visa with 4,300 places has been introduced, replacing the Global Talent and Distinguished Talent visas.
• Additionally, 300 Special Eligibility visas are reserved for unique cases, such as returning permanent residents.

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Australia’s Immigration Plan Revealed: Who Gets the PR Spots?

The Australian Government has confirmed the 2025–26 Migration Program planning levels at 185,000 places, maintaining the same as 2024–25. The program continues to strike a balance between addressing skill shortages in the labour market and enabling family reunification.

Visa Stream / Category	2023–24 Planning Levels	2024–25 Planning Levels	2025–26 Planning Levels
Skill
Employer Sponsored	36,825	44,000	44,000
Skilled Independent	30,375	16,900	16,900
Regional	32,300	33,000	33,000
State/Territory Nominated	30,400	33,000	33,000
Business Innovation & Investment	1,900	1,000	1,000
Talent and Innovation	–	–	4,300
Global Talent (Independent)	5,000	4,000	–
Distinguished Talent	300	300	–
Skill Total	1,37,100	1,32,200	1,32,200
Family
Partner	40,500	40,500	40,500
Parent	8,500	8,500	8,500
Child	3,000	3,000	3,000
Other Family	500	500	500
Family Total	52,500	52,500	52,500
Special Eligibility	400	300	300
Total Migration Program	1,90,000	1,85,000	1,85,000

 

Also, read…

Australia raises Student Visa Cap to 295,000 for 2025. Apply now!
 

Australia Keeps Migration Program Levels at 185,000: What This Means for You

Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program is more than an announcement—it’s a roadmap for those looking to build their future Down Under. For Indians, it means higher chances of securing permanent residency through skill-based routes, while still ensuring family reunification stays a priority.

Given below are some ways that can help you with the Australia PR process:

• Check your eligibility early: Ensure your occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupation List and get your skills assessed.
• Boost your points: Higher English scores, work experience, and state nominations can improve your chances.
• Explore regional options: With 33,000 regional places, moving beyond big cities can speed up your PR journey.
• Stay updated on new visas: The National Innovation Visa opens doors for innovators and entrepreneurs.
• Plan with family in mind: Family pathways remain open, making migration smoother for your loved ones.
   

*Are you looking for step-by-step with Australia Immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end support!

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