Australia’s Migration Program Planning Levels 2025–26: What You Need to Know
Migration planning is a crucial tool for Australia to meet economic, social, and humanitarian needs. As we move into 2025–26, understanding the permanent Migration Program helps individuals, families, and policymakers navigate opportunities and priorities.3
Skilled Stream: Boosting Australia’s Economy
The Skilled Stream supports workers with the skills, qualifications, and entrepreneurship most needed in the economy. The stream aims to boost the economy and address labor shortages, especially in regional Australia.
Visa Categories under Skilled Stream
| Visa Category | 2023–24 | 2024–25 | 2025–26 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 & Innovation | — | — | 4,300 |
| Global Talent (Independent) | 5,000 | 4,000 | — |
| Distinguished Talent | 300 | 300 | — |
Note – Global Talent and Distinguished Talent applicants are included under the Talent & Innovation category.
Regional and State/Territory Nominated Visas
These visas allow states and territories to attract skilled migrants tailored to local economic and workforce needs. They account for 36% of the overall planning level and 50% of the Skilled Stream.
Each state and territory has unique nomination criteria:
- ACT – Migration
- NSW – Visas and Migration
- VIC – Live in Melbourne
- QLD – Business & Skilled Migration Queensland
- NT – Migrate
- WA – Skilled Migration Western Australia
- SA – Move to South Australia
- TAS – Migration Tasmania
Family Stream: Reuniting Families
| Visa Category | 2023–24 | 2024–25 | 2025–26 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partner Visa | 40,500 | 40,500 | 40,500 |
| Parent Visa | 8,500 | 8,500 | 8,500 |
| Child Visa | 3,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 |
| Other Family Visa | 500 | 500 | 500 |
Note- Partner and Child visas are demand-driven, and planning numbers are indicative.
Special Eligibility Stream
This stream allows permanent residents returning to Australia or those with unique circumstances to migrate under special provisions. Total places: 300.
Net Overseas Migration (NOM)
- NOM measures movements in/out of Australia for 12+ months.
- In 2023–24, 61% of permanent skilled visas and 47% of family visas were granted to people already onshore.
- This reduces pressure on housing and infrastructure.
For more details, refer to the Australian Bureau of Statistics NOM report and the Centre for Population National Projections.
How Emigrate Lawyers Can Help
- Skilled & Employer-Sponsored Visas – Guidance on eligibility and application strategy.
- Family & Partner Visas – Help with documentation and sponsorship process.
- Special Eligibility & Humanitarian Visas – Case-by-case advice for unique needs.
- Policy Interpretation – Stay updated with expert insight into migration law changes.
Maximize your chance of a successful migration outcome with our expert legal support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the total Migration Program for 2025-26?
A: 185,000 places, maintaining the same settings as 2024-25.
Q2: How is the Skilled Stream prioritized?
A: Focus is on addressing labor shortages, boosting productivity, and supporting regional Australia.
Q3: Are Partner and Child visas capped?
A: These are demand-driven categories with indicative planning levels only.
Q4: What does NOM include beyond the permanent Migration Program?
A: NOM also includes temporary migrants like students and working holiday makers. It also includes New Zealanders and humanitarian entrants.
Q5: Can Emigrate Lawyers help with state/territory-nominated visas?
A: Yes. We guide applicants through specific state or territory criteria and nomination processes.
Conclusion
Related Insight –
- New English Language Test Requirements for Subclass 482 Visas from 13 September 2025
- Immigration Updates 2025: Skilled Employer and Family Visas
- Australia Migration Cap Explained: How It Affects Your Visa Application
- Migration (Australian Values Statement for PIC 4019) Instrument 2025: What You Need to Know
- Social Security (Special Benefit – Class of Visas) Determination 2025: What You Need to Know
- Updates on Ministerial Intervention under Sections 351, 501J, 46A and 48B of the Migration Act
- Understanding the Australian PR Visa Points System — A Practical Guide (2025)
