South Australian Immigration News

How to Become a Registered Nurse in Australia

How to Become a Registered Nurse in Australia

How to Become a Registered Nurse in Australia

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for nurses around the world. With its high-quality healthcare system, strong demand for healthcare workers, and excellent career opportunities, many internationally qualified nurses and midwives (IQNMs) are choosing to build their future here.

If you're exploring how to become a registered nurse in Australia, this guide offers a complete breakdown of pathways, visa options, and registration procedures.

Applications for registration and renewals can be completed online through the Ahpra portal.

The portal allows applicants to create or log in to an account to start an application, update contact details, request a certificate of good standing or certificate of registration, and manage updates such as changing the principal place of practice or reporting a notifiable event.

Registration and Immigration – Two Separate Processes

If you want to work as a nurse or midwife in Australia, you need to go through two different applications:

Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) via Ahpra – to legally practice as a nurse or midwife.

  • This checks qualifications, English skills, and whether the applicant meets professional standards.
  • Without NMBA registration, you cannot legally work as a nurse/midwife in Australia, even if you have a visa.

Visa with the Department of Home Affairs – to live and work in Australia.

  • This allows you to enter, live, and work in Australia.
  • Without a visa, you cannot stay or be employed in the country — even if you have NMBA registration.

NMBA’s Registration Standards

Before you can work, you must meet the NMBA’s registration standards. These include:

  • Criminal history check → Authorities review your past records to ensure suitability for healthcare roles.
  • English language skills → Proof of English proficiency is required via one of the following:
    • IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0, with 7.0 in each band.
    • OET (Nursing): B in each band.
    • PTE Academic: Overall 65, with 65 in each band.
    • TOEFL iBT: Total 94 (L:24, R:24, W:27, S:23).
      Results may be from one sitting or two within six months (minimum criteria apply).
  • Recency of practice → You must show recent clinical experience.
  • Professional indemnity insurance (PII) → You need to be covered for professional practice incidents.

Qualification Criteria

Qualifications are assessed for equivalence to Australian standards. The NMBA checks:

  1. Recognition for registration – Must be officially recognised in your home country.
  2. Accreditation – Programs must be accredited and include clinical placements.
  3. Academic level – Equivalent to:
    • Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree for registered nurses/midwives.
    • Level 5 Diploma for enrolled nurses.

Country Classifications

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has reviewed nursing and midwifery qualifications from different countries and grouped them into three categories. This classification helps determine the likely pathway you will follow toward Ahpra registration and is critical for internationally qualified nurses and midwives (IQNMs) pursuing careers in Australia.

Likely to Meet Standards (Fast-Track Recognition)

If you trained in one of the following countries, your qualification is usually considered equivalent to Australian standards:

  • Canada
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America
  • Republic of Ireland
  • Hong Kong (nursing only)

These candidates often follow a faster registration process with limited additional assessment.

May Meet Standards (Case-by-Case Assessment)

If you studied in one of the following countries, your qualifications may be accepted, but they’ll be assessed individually:

  • Belgium (Flanders)
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • Germany
  • Hong Kong (midwifery)
  • Israel
  • Malaysia
  • Netherlands
  • Norway (nursing)
  • Pakistan
  • Portugal
  • Singapore
  • South Africa
  • Republic of Korea (South Korea)
  • Spain
  • Sweden

A detailed review will determine whether additional testing or bridging is needed.

Unlikely to Meet Standards (Additional Steps Required)

Qualifications from the countries below are generally not considered equivalent. Most applicants in this group will need to complete the Outcomes-Based Assessment (OBA) or undertake an approved bridging or transition program in Australia.

  • Afghanistan
  • Albania
  • Argentina
  • Austria
  • Bahrain
  • Bangladesh
  • Barbados
  • Belgium (Walloon region)
  • Bhutan
  • Bosnia
  • Botswana
  • Brazil
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Cambodia
  • Cameroon
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Cyprus
  • Egypt
  • Estonia
  • Ethiopia
  • Fiji
  • Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
  • France
  • Georgia
  • Ghana
  • Greece
  • India
  • Iran
  • Iraq
  • Italy
  • Jamaica
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kenya
  • Lebanon
  • Lithuania
  • Macedonia
  • Malawi
  • Malta
  • Morocco
  • Myanmar
  • Namibia
  • Nepal
  • Nigeria
  • Oman
  • Occupied Palestinian Territory
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Poland
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Rwanda
  • Samoa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Serbia
  • Slovenia
  • Solomon Islands
  • Sri Lanka
  • Swaziland (now Eswatini)
  • Switzerland
  • Sudan
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand
  • Tonga
  • Turkey
  • Uganda
  • Ukraine
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Applicants in this category typically need to complete the Outcomes-Based Assessment (OBA) pathway, which includes:

  • NCLEX-RN-style multiple-choice exam
  • Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) conducted in Australia

Alternatively, you may complete an Approved Program of Study in Australia, such as a bridging or transition program to meet the NMBA’s registration standards.

Step-by-Step Pathway to Becoming a Nurse in Australia

  1. Review NMBA registration standards
  2. Complete the Self-Check on Ahpra’s website
    This determines if you fall under Stream A, B or C.
  3. Follow the pathway:
    • Stream A: Equivalent → Orientation + documentation
    • Stream B: Relevant but not equivalent → OBA (exams + portfolio)
    • Stream C: Not equivalent → Bridging or further study
  4. Apply for NMBA registration via Ahpra, ensuring you meet all requirements
  5. Apply for an Australian visa through the Department of Home Affairs
    • Skilled Migration, Employer-Sponsored, or Student Visa
  6. Secure employment
    • Registration is required before starting work.
  7. Relocate and begin work in Australia

ANMAC vs NMBA – Know the Difference

  • ANMAC assesses your qualifications/work experience for visa/migration purposes.
  • NMBA (via Ahpra) handles professional registration.

You must pass both if you plan to migrate and practice.

Fees for Nurses and Midwives (October 2025)

Application Fees

  • General registration: AU$ 332
  • Recent graduates (approved Australian programs): AU$ 97
  • Non-practising: AU$ 39
  • Fast-track application: AU$ 60

Annual Registration Renewal

  • General: AU$ 193 (NSW: AU$ 189)
  • Non-practising: AU$ 39

IQNM Fees

  • Assessment & Orientation: AU$ 410
  • NCLEX-RN Score Transfer: AU$ 250
  • OSCE: AU$ 4,000
  • Preliminary review: AU$ 575
  • Tertiary review: AU$ 2,500

If you need assistance with your nursing visa, employer sponsorship, or other work-related visa options, get in touch with our team of experienced immigration lawyers and registered migration agents at Work Visa Lawyers.

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How to Register as a Doctor in Australia

How to Register as a Doctor in Australia

How to Register as a Doctor in Australia

All doctors practising medicine in Australia are required to be registered with the Medical Board of Australia (MBA). This registration process ensures that medical professionals meet stringent professional standards, providing safe, high-quality care to patients across the country.

Types of Medical Registration in Australia

The type of medical registration you need depends on your qualifications, level of experience, and specific training background. The Medical Board of Australia offers the following categories:

  • General Registration – For fully qualified doctors eligible to practise independently in Australia.
  • Specialist Registration – For doctors formally recognised as specialists in a defined field of medicine.
  • Provisional Registration – For recent medical graduates undertaking supervised clinical practice.
  • Limited Registration – For doctors practising in designated roles or under supervision, commonly applicable to International Medical Graduates (IMGs).
  • Non-Practising Registration – For doctors who wish to retain registration without actively practising medicine.

How to Apply for Medical Registration with AHPRA

All registration and renewal applications must be submitted online via the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) website. The standard steps include:

  • Creating an AHPRA account – Enables you to complete, submit, and track your application.
  • Preparing required documentation, such as:
    • Medical degree certificate and academic transcript
    • Proof of identity (e.g., passport or birth certificate)
    • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
    • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Submitting your application – Complete the appropriate online form for your registration type and pay the relevant fee.

Tip: Make sure your documentation is complete and up to date before starting the AHPRA registration process to avoid delays.

Pathways to Medical Registration for International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

International Medical Graduates (IMGs)—doctors who obtained their qualifications outside Australia or New Zealand—can pursue medical registration in Australia through specific pathways. Each has unique eligibility and assessment requirements:

1. Competent Authority Pathway

  • Designed for IMGs assessed by a recognised competent authority.
  • Applicants must have practised in a competent authority country.
  • Leads to general registration.

2. Standard Pathway

  • For IMGs not eligible for the Competent Authority or Specialist Pathway.
  • Requires successful completion of AMC exams.
  • Leads to general registration.

3. Specialist Pathway

  • For IMGs holding an international specialist qualification.
  • Requires assessment by a relevant specialist college.
  • Leads to specialist registration.

4. Expedited Specialist Pathway

  • For specialists whose qualifications are listed on the MBA’s Expedited Specialist Pathway list.
  • Leads to specialist registration.

5. Short-Term Training in a Medical Specialty Pathway

  • For specialist IMGs or trainees seeking temporary training (up to 24 months) in Australia.
  • Does not lead to ongoing registration or specialist registration.

Medical Board of Australia – Schedule of Fees (Effective 1 August 2025)

All fees listed are in AUD and must be paid at the time of application unless stated otherwise. Both the application fee and the registration fee are generally required.

All doctors practising in Australia must be registered with the Medical Board of Australia via AHPRA.

Why Registration Fees Are Important

These fees fund the vital work of AHPRA and the MBA to ensure public safety and uphold medical standards. The cost of regulating the profession is fully funded through these fees, with no government subsidies.

What Do the Fees Support?

Fees help fund essential functions, such as:

  • Assessing and managing local and international registration applications
  • Developing and enforcing professional medical standards
  • Accrediting medical programs and intern training via the Australian Medical Council (AMC)
  • Investigating concerns about registered practitioners
  • Supporting criminal prosecutions for breaches in advertising or title misuse
  • Funding the work of the Health Ombudsman in Queensland
  • Maintaining the public register of practitioners
  • Providing practitioner health services
  • Supporting the National Health Practitioner Ombudsman

Application Fees (September 2025)

 

Application Fees in September 2025
Registration TypeNational Fee (AU$)NSW Rebate/SurchargeNSW Total Fee (AU$)

General Registration*

AU$ 1,594

0

AU$ 1,594

Specialist Registration*

AU$ 1,594

0

AU$ 1,594

Provisional (AUS & NZ Graduates)*

AU$ 319

0

AU$ 319

Provisional (International Graduates)*

AU$ 742

0

AU$ 742

General Registration from Provisional*

AU$ 521

0

AU$ 521

Limited Registration*

AU$ 1,085

0

AU$ 1,085

Non-Practising Registration*

AU$ 319

0

AU$ 319

Endorsement of Registration

AU$ 319

0

AU$ 319

Fast-Track Application*

AU$ 200

0

AU$ 200

Add Specialist to General Registration

AU$ 521

0

AU$ 521

Add General to Specialist Registration

AU$ 521

0

AU$ 521

Add Additional Specialist Registration

AU$ 521

0

AU$ 521

Need Help with a Visa?

If you require visa assistance to work as a doctor in Australia, please contact our expert team of immigration lawyers and registered migration agents at Work Visa Lawyers. We offer personalised guidance for doctors and health professionals migrating to Australia.

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482 Visa English Requirements

482 Visa English Requirements

The Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand (SID) Visa is one of the most common Australian work visas. It allows skilled workers to be sponsored by an eligible Australian employer to live and work in Australia for up to four years.

Meeting the English language requirement is an essential part of the application. The rules were recently updated, with changes applying from 13 September 2025. Below is a full guide to the current requirements, including accepted tests, exemptions, and what this means if you plan to transition to permanent residency.

Recently, the Australian Government reduced the PTE English test requirement for the Subclass 482 visa. The change took effect on 13 September 2025 and applies to English tests taken on or after that date. Tests completed before this date must still meet the previous requirements.

For the Subclass 482 visa, the One Skill Retake (OSR) is now permitted for English tests that offer this option, such as IELTS.

English Tests Completed On or After 13 September 2025

If your English test provider offers a One Skill Retake (OSR) option, results from that retake may be accepted.

Minimum Score Required by Test:

TestListeningReadingWritingSpeaking

PTE Academic

33

36

29

24

IELTS Academic

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

IELTS General Training

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

TOEFL iBT

8

8

9

14

OET

220

240

200

270

LanguageCert Academic

41

44

45

54

MET

49

47

45

38

CELPIP – General

5

5

5

5

 

English Tests Completed Before 13 September 2025

Scores must be achieved in a single sitting. One Skill Retake results are not accepted.

Minimum Score Required by Test:

Test

Requirement

PTE Academic

Overall score of 36, with 36 in each component

IELTS (Academic or General)

Overall band score of at least 5.0, with no band lower than 5.0

TOEFL iBT

Total score: 35 (Listening: min 4, Reading: min 4, Writing: min 14, Speaking: min 14)

Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE)

Overall score of 154, with at least 154 in each component

OET

At least B in each of the four components

Note: From 26 July 2023 to 4 May 2024, TOEFL iBT was not accepted for visa purposes. From 12 February 2024, only the paper-based CAE version is accepted. Older valid results remain acceptable.

Who Does Not Need to Sit an English Test?

You may be exempt from taking an English test if:

  • You hold a passport from:
    • United Kingdom
    • Ireland
    • USA
    • Canada
    • New Zealand
  • You have completed at least five years of full-time study in English at a secondary level or higher
  • You are sponsored under a labour agreement that specifies a different English requirement
  • You hold registration that has the same or higher English requirement, such as for medical practitioners

482 Visa to 186 Visa: Permanent Residency Transition

Many Subclass 482 visa holders later apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa.

For the 186 visa, you must show Competent English, which is a higher requirement than for the 482 visa.

Competent English – Tests Taken On or After 7 August 2025

TestListeningReadingWritingSpeaking

IELTS

6

6

6

6

PTE Academic

47

48

51

54

TOEFL iBT

16

16

19

19

Cambridge C1 Advanced

163

163

170

179

OET

290

310

290

330

CELPIP General

7

7

7

7

LanguageCert Academic

57

60

64

70

MET

56

55

57

48

Competent English – Tests Taken Before 7 August 2025

TestListeningReadingWritingSpeaking

IELTS

6

6

6

6

PTE Academic

50

50

50

50

TOEFL iBT

12

13

21

21

Cambridge C1 Advanced

169

169

169

169

OET

B

B

B

B

CELPIP General

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

LanguageCert Academic

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

MET

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

If your long-term goal is permanent residency, it is important to plan ahead and prepare for the higher Competent English requirement.

How Work Visa Lawyers Can Help

At Work Visa Lawyers, we assist both skilled workers and Australian employers with all aspects of the Subclass 482 visa process, including:

  • Assessing whether you need to sit an English test or qualify for an exemption
  • Preparing and lodging a strong application
  • Helping you plan your pathway to permanent residency via the Subclass 186 visa

Contact Work Visa Lawyers today to book a consultation and receive expert advice on your visa application.

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How to Create an ImmiAccount: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Create an ImmiAccount: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Visit the Official ImmiAccount Website

Go to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

Important: Always ensure you're on the official government website to avoid scams. The URL should start with: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

Creating an ImmiAccount is essential for applying for Australian visas, citizenship, or accessing immigration services online.

Step 2: Click on “Create ImmiAccount”

On the login page, you’ll see the “Create ImmiAccount” button. Click on it to begin your registration.
Visit: https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login

Enter your valid email address to receive a verification code.

Once you receive the code, enter it and click “NEXT” to proceed.

Step 3: Select Your Account Type and Enter New User Details

You will be prompted to choose between:

  • Individual – for personal visa applications
  • Organisation – for companies or registered migration agents

Enter the following New User Details:

  • First and last name
  • Contact number

Tip: Ensure these match your identity documents for a smoother visa application process.

Step 4: Account Details

Login Details:

Create a Username and Password
Choose a secure username and password. Typical password requirements include:

  • At least 14 characters
  • A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters
  • Numbers and special characters

Set Security Questions

Select and answer security questions. These will be used if you ever need to recover your account.

Review and Accept Terms

Read the terms and conditions carefully.
Tick the checkbox to accept them and continue.

Step 5: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Before your account is fully created, you must set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access and cyberattacks.

Tip: Ensure your email and mobile number are accessible during this step.

Steps to Enable MFA:

  • Download the Microsoft Authenticator App
    Available on Google Play (Android) or App Store (iOS)
  • Scan the Generated QR Code
    Open the app and scan the QR code shown on the ImmiAccount setup screen
  • Enter the 6-Digit Authentication Code
    The app will display a 6-digit code. Enter it into the ImmiAccount page to verify.

This ensures your account remains secure and accessible only by you. Keep your mobile device safe and handy for future logins.

Step 6: Log in – ImmiAccount Has Been Created Successfully

You’ve now successfully created your ImmiAccount.
Go to https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/login to log in using your new credentials.

You can now:

  • Apply for or manage visa applications
  • Upload documents
  • Receive status updates and official correspondence

ImmiAccount is your personal dashboard for all interactions with the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

How Can Work Visa Lawyers Assist You?

If you're seeking help from a Registered Migration Agent or Immigration Lawyer to guide your visa application, Work Visa Lawyers is here to help.

Since 2011, we’ve assisted thousands of applicants — individuals, families, and businesses — in securing Australian visas.

Our experienced legal team offers:

  • Honest advice
  • Strategic preparation
  • Ongoing support tailored to your situation

Contact us today to take the next step toward your Australian visa.

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Australian Immigration News – September 2025

Australian Immigration News – September 2025

Welcome to the latest edition of Australian Immigration News from Work Visa Lawyers. In this article, we cover the key updates for September 2025. September 2025 has been one of the busiest months in immigration news for some time, with major announcements on visas, testing, allocations, and labour agreements.

This month brings significant developments, including updates on the 2025–26 Migration Program, interim allocations, English test changes for the 482 visa, the latest Subclass 189 invitation round, and more.

Immigration Back in the Headlines

From the federal election in May until mid-August 2025, immigration news was relatively quiet. During this period, the newly appointed Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke, had not made any major announcements on skilled visas.

This changed dramatically in late August, with several immigration-related stories making headlines:

  • On 31 August 2025, anti-immigration rallies were held across Australia, with participation from extremist groups including neo-Nazis.
  • The Federal Labor Government quickly condemned the rallies and reaffirmed its support for migration.
  • Liberal Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price made controversial comments suggesting “large numbers” of Indian people were migrating to Australia because the Indian community votes for Labor. Following backlash, she lost her place on the Liberal front bench.

Soon after these events, the immigration planning levels for 2025–26 were officially announced, bringing migration back into national focus.

The Australian Government Confirms 2025–26 Migration Program

The big headline this month: the Australian Government has confirmed the permanent migration intake for 2025–26 will remain at 185,000 places. The Australian Government has previously released this number during the announcement of the 2025-2026 National Budget. 

This is the same as last year, so there’s no increase or decrease in the overall program size.

Program Breakdown:

Skilled visas:

  • 44,000 Employer Sponsored – the largest category. However, with so many Subclass 482 visa holders waiting to transition, we may see longer PR processing times.
  • 16,900 Skilled Independent (Subclass 189 Visa) – very competitive, with hundreds of thousands of EOIs chasing limited invitations.
  • 33,000 Regional visas (Subclass 491 and Subclass 494).
  • 33,000 State Nominated (Subclass 190 Visa).
  • 4,300 Talent and Innovation visas, which includes the new National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) as well as the old Global Talent and Distinguished Talent visas (which are now closed to new applications). With more places allocated, we expect to see more NIV invitations.
    • We offer a free NIV assessment to evaluate your eligibility — you can find the link in the description.
  • 1,000 Business Innovation and Investment visas – these places are just to clear the backlog, as no new applications are being accepted.

On the family visa side:

What does this mean?

Skilled visas such as the 189, 190, and 491 will remain highly competitive.

While the Federal Government have not provided the allocations for the 190 and 491 visas to the states and territories at this stage, some states have already received small interim allocations.

Interim Allocations Explained

Interim allocations are small, temporary visa quotas provided to states and territories. They allow limited invitations while states wait for their full annual allocation to be released by the Federal Government.

This is not the first time interim allocations have been used. A similar process occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–21, and it is happening again now.

Stay in the loop with our social media pages - Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. We’re always committed to staying up to date with the latest news and keep you in the know.

State and Territory Interim Allocations

Northern Territory Interim Allocations

  • A limited number of interim allocations for Subclass 491 visas.
  • These are only for onshore applicants with urgent deadlines before 31 December 2025, including:
    • Applicants with visas expiring this year who cannot apply for a graduate visa.
    • Applicants turning 45 before the end of the year.
    • Applicants whose upcoming birthday would reduce their points score below 65.

South Australia Interim Allocations

  • South Australia has also received interim allocations.
  • However, it is not open for new ROIs (Registrations of Interest).
  • Invitations are only being issued to applicants who already lodged last year.

Tasmania Interim Allocations

Tasmania has each received 165 interim allocations.

This interim allocation will only be used for those who were provisionally approved but could not be nominated with the 2024-2025 nomination before all the places were used.

Sc-190 applicants with visas expiring soonest or those currently holding a Bridging Visa will be prioritised.

Australian Capital Territory Interim Allocations

ACT has each received 165 interim allocations.

Western Australia Interim Allocations

Western Australia has received a small interim allocation for 2025–26, which will be used to finalise pending 2024–25 applications. The new program year will only open once the Government provides the full allocation.

Queensland Interim Allocations

Migration Queensland has received an interim allocation of 250 places, with the full quota expected by the end of September. Applicants must lodge a new ROI for the 2025–26 program to be considered for nomination.

Migration Queensland announced that Queensland Skilled Migration Program for 2025-26 will open for Registration of Interest (ROI) on 19 September 2025.

As part of Migration Queensland 2025-2026 program, they have introduced a few changes such as:

  • revised onshore and offshore occupation lists
  • new onshore pathway for Building and Construction workforce
  • changes to work experience requirements
  • changes to certain selection factors

Victoria and New South Wales didn’t publish the interim allocations yet.

Once the Federal Government releases full allocations, states are expected to publish their updated nomination criteria and reopen fully.

Subclass 189 Invitation Round

After nine months without invitations, a new Skilled Independent Subclass 189 visa invitation round was finally held on 21 August 2025. The previous round had taken place in November 2024.

This round brought positive news for many applicants, with invitations issued across construction, health, and teaching sectors. Occupations invited included carpenters, painters, engineers, nurses, doctors, and teachers.

The Department of Home Affairs released the full list of invited occupations and points.

Key Outcomes:

  • Over 6,800 invitations were issued across more than 130 occupations.
  • Construction trades such as carpenters, electricians, and bricklayers were invited at only 65 points.
  • Health roles were also strong — many doctors and nurses were invited around 80 points.
  • Education professionals included university lecturers at 85 points and childcare managers at 90 points.
  • Unfortunately, accountants and chefs did not receive invitations in this round.

The Department has indicated that invitation rounds will be held quarterly, with the next expected before December 2025.

Subclass 491 Family Sponsored Stream Returns

Another important highlight of the August round was the return of invitations for the Subclass 491 Family Sponsored stream.

It had been a long time since we last saw invitations in this category, making this great news for people who already have family in Australia and are seeking a pathway to settle here.

  • Total invitations issued: 150 EOIs.
  • Occupations invited included:
    • Trades: Bricklayer, General Electrician, Gasfitter
    • Health: Cardiologist, Midwife, Registered Nurse
    • Education: Early Childhood Teacher

This marks a significant reopening of the 491 Family Sponsored option. Hopefully, more invitations will follow in future rounds.

English Test Changes for the Subclass 482 Visa

There has also been big news for skilled workers applying for the Subclass 482 Visa – Skills in Demand (SID) Visa.

From 13 September 2025, the English test requirements for the PTE have been reduced.

New PTE Requirements:

  • Listening: 33
  • Reading: 36
  • Writing: 29
  • Speaking: 24

This is a major drop, especially in speaking, compared to the old requirement of 36 in each band. For English tests taken before 13 September, applicants are still required to meet the old requirements.

Other key updates include:

  • IELTS remains the same at a minimum of 5 in each component.
  • One Skill Retakes are now allowed, which will help many applicants who struggled with just one test area.
  • Three new English tests are now accepted for the 482 visa:
    • LanguageCert Academic Test
    • Michigan English Test (MET)
    • CELPIP General

Altogether, the government now accepts nine English language tests for Australian Migration. This makes the visa more accessible for many skilled workers around the world.

Labour Agreement Updates

Labour Agreements have continued to grow rapidly. According to information shared at a Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) meeting with the Department of Home Affairs, Labour Agreements have increased by 53.4% in the past year.

This means more employers are sponsoring skilled workers through customised agreements.

One of the key benefits of Labour Agreements is that they can provide concessions, such as allowing applicants up to 55 years of age to obtain permanent residency in Australia.

At Work Visa Lawyers, we have produced several resources about Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs) and tips on how to find a sponsor in Australia. You can find these on our YouTube channel and website.

Core Skills Occupation List Review

Jobs and Skills Australia will soon begin consultations to review the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).

Work Visa Lawyers plans to recommend the following occupations be added back to the list:

If you think an occupation should be added, let us know in the comments on our YouTube September Immigration News — and explain why. Community input can help shape these recommendations.

The consultation details will be published by Jobs and Skills Australia. We will also share updates on our social media channels as soon as more information becomes available.

Bridging Visa B Update

There are currently delays in Bridging Visa B processing.

The Department of Home Affairs now recommends lodging applications 2 to 4 weeks before your intended departure date.

A Bridging Visa B is necessary if you hold a Bridging Visa A and plan to travel overseas. Without it, you cannot re-enter Australia.

How Work Visa Lawyers Can Help

Since 2011, Work Visa Lawyers has been assisting thousands of individuals, families, and employers with their Australian visa applications. We provide:

  • Expert legal advice tailored to your circumstances
  • Support with skills assessments, EOIs, visa lodgements, administrative Review Tribunal (ART) reviews, and Federal Court appeals
  • Guidance on complex matters, including DAMAs and employer sponsorship

For personalised advice, book a consultation with Work Visa Lawyers today.

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Work Visa Lawyers works on Kaurna Land
We acknowledge and pay respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and
Elders of this land and this nation, and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational
practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This site's contents are for general information purposes only
We recommend you seek advice from a Registered Migration Agent and Lawyer
(such as Work Visa Lawyers) in relation to your factual situation and relevant migration laws

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