Australia’s Permanent Migration Program Set for 2025–2026
The Albanese Labor Government has confirmed that the Permanent Migration Program for 2025–26 will remain at 185,000 places, the same level as the 2024–25 program. This decision reflects a balanced approach that provides stability for employers, skilled professionals, and migration practitioners, while continuing to prioritise skilled migration as a cornerstone of Australia’s immigration system.
Updated 2025 – Everything you need to know about Australia’s 2025–26 Permanent Migration Program.
Why the Permanent Migration Program Matters
Australia’s permanent migration program plays a crucial role in shaping the nation’s workforce, economy, and communities. Each year, the government sets a cap on the number of permanent visas granted across skilled, family, and special eligibility categories.
By maintaining the 2025–26 program at 185,000 places, the government provides:
- Certainty for employers who rely on skilled workers to fill critical labour shortages.
- Clarity for applicants, who can plan their migration pathway with predictable intake numbers.
- Stability for migration professionals, who can guide clients with confidence in the system’s direction.
This outcome follows extensive consultation with states and territories, which recommended keeping the program unchanged.
Key Features of the 2025–26 Migration Program
- 185,000 permanent migration places available (unchanged from 2024–25).
- Strong focus on skilled migration, which remains the largest component.
- Visa processing is aligned with program levels, ensuring no disruption.
- Broad support from states and territories.
Breakdown of the Program
The official release did not provide a detailed breakdown, but the structure is expected to mirror previous years:
Skilled Stream (around 70% of places)
- Employer-Sponsored visas
- Skilled Independent visas
- State and Territory Nominated visas
- Regional visas
- Business Innovation and Investment visas
- Distinguished Talent visas
This stream attracts migrants with skills needed to fill labour shortages and boost the economy.
Family Stream (around 30% of places)
- Partner visas
- Parent visas
- Child visas
- Other family categories
This stream reunites Australians with loved ones and strengthens communities.
Special Eligibility Stream (small portion of places)
Covers permanent residents returning to Australia and other unique cases.
Impact on Employers
Maintaining migration levels ensures pathways for employers to sponsor overseas workers in areas of shortage. With skills gaps in healthcare, construction, technology, and trades, employer-sponsored visas remain vital. Employers should work closely with migration professionals to ensure compliance and choose the right visa pathway.
Opportunities for Skilled Professionals
For skilled professionals overseas, this is a strong signal that Australia remains open to global talent. Whether through the points-tested system or state nomination, opportunities remain across high-demand sectors. Preparing accurate, decision-ready applications is essential to success.
Certainty for Migration Practitioners
For migration lawyers and advisers, program stability provides confidence in planning. With no disruptions to intake or processing, practitioners can continue delivering clear, strategic advice.
How Emigrate Lawyers Can Help
At Emigrate Lawyers, we understand the complexities of Australia’s migration system. Our experienced team provides:
- Tailored advice on skilled migration pathways
- Support for employers with sponsorship and compliance
- Guidance for families seeking partner, parent, or child visas
- Strategic planning to improve visa success
Contact Emigrate Lawyers today for expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the size of the Permanent Migration Program for 2025–26?
A – The program remains at 185,000 places, unchanged from 2024–25.
Q2. Why was the intake not increased?
A -Consultations with states and territories recommended stability in size and composition.
Q3. Will visa processing be affected?
A -No. The Department of Home Affairs has already been processing visas at this level.
Q4. Which visas are prioritised?
A -Skilled visas, including employer-sponsored, skilled independent, and state-nominated visas.
Q5. What about family visas?
A -Family visas, especially partner visas, remain significant, but skilled migration is prioritised.
Q6. How can applicants improve their chances?
A -Submit decision-ready applications, ensure accuracy, and seek professional migration advice.
Q7. Are regional migration opportunities still available?
A -Yes, regional visas remain a key part of the skilled stream.
Conclusion
The 2025–26 Permanent Migration Program reflects the government’s commitment to stability and skilled migration. By keeping the intake steady at 185,000 places, Australia can meet workforce needs, support families, and strengthen its economy.
If you are considering applying for a skilled visa, sponsoring an employee, or reuniting with family, contact Emigrate Lawyers today for expert legal advice and tailored solutions.
Source: Permanent-migration-set-for-2025-2026.pdf
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