If you are thinking about studying in Australia, or you are already in Australia on another temporary visa, there are some important changes you need to know about.

From 2 October 2026, new rules affect who can apply for a Student visa (subclass 500) while they are in Australia.

The changes also affect some Student visa holders who want to bring their partner or children to Australia.

So, if you are currently in Australia and thinking about studying, don’t assume you can simply apply for a Student visa before your current visa expires.

Here’s what you need to know.

Can I apply for a Student visa while I’m in Australia?

For some visa holders, no.

If you are in Australia on one of the temporary visas affected by the new rules, you will generally need to leave Australia before applying for your Student visa. You will also generally need to be outside Australia when the Student visa is granted.

This means that the visa you currently hold is now very important.

Which visas are affected?

The new rules cover a range of temporary visas.

These include:

• Visitor visa (subclass 600)
• Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)
• Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462)
• Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
• Training visa (subclass 407)
• Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408)
• Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482)
• Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa (subclass 400)

and a number of other temporary visa categories.

So, this is no longer just an issue for people who come to Australia as visitors. It can also affect people who are already working, training or living in Australia on another temporary visa.

Here’s a simple example

Imagine you are in Australia on a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).

You enjoy living in Australia and decide you would like to study a diploma or degree.

Under the new rules, you generally cannot simply stay in Australia and apply for your Student visa.

Instead, you may need to:

• Leave Australia
• Apply for the Student visa offshore
• Wait for the visa to be granted
• Return to Australia.

This is why it is important to understand the rules before your current visa gets close to expiring.

What about people on a Temporary Graduate visa?

This is particularly important for people on a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).

Perhaps you have finished your studies, are working in Australia and then decide that you want to study another course.

Under the new rules, you may not be able to simply apply for another Student visa while remaining in Australia.

You may need to leave Australia and make your Student visa application from overseas.

Your individual circumstances and any available exemptions need to be checked before making plans.

What does this mean for “visa hopping”?

The Government has introduced these changes as part of measures to strengthen the Student visa program and reduce people using successive temporary visas to extend their stay in Australia.

In simple terms, the pathway:

• Temporary visa
• Stay in Australia
• Student visa,

will no longer be available to almost everyone.

For some people, the pathway will now be:

• Temporary visa
• Leave Australia
• Apply for Student visa offshore.

This doesn’t mean Australia is closing its doors to international students. It simply means that where you apply from is now very important.

What about my partner and children?

There are also changes affecting the family members of Student visa holders.

Under the new rules, Student visa holders cannot always bring their partner or children to Australia in the same way as before.

There are some important exceptions, including certain PhD students, government-sponsored students and other specific circumstances.

There are also rules that apply to family members who want to join a Student visa holder after the Student visa has already been granted.

So, if you are planning to study in Australia with your family, it is important to look at the family visa arrangements before you lodge your application.

What if I’m already in Australia?

This is probably the most important question for many people.

If you are already in Australia and thinking about studying, don’t wait until your current visa is about to expire.

For example, you might currently hold:

• Visitor visa
• Working Holiday visa
• Temporary Graduate visa
• Training visa
• Temporary Activity visa
• Skills in Demand visa

You may have previously assumed that you could simply apply for a Student visa while you were here.

That may no longer be possible.

You may instead need to leave Australia and apply from overseas.

What should I do before making plans?

Before enrolling in a course or booking flights, check:

• What visa am I currently on?
• Can I apply for a Student visa from Australia?
• Do I need to leave Australia first?
• When does my current visa expire?
• When does my course start?
• Can my partner or children come with me?
• Will leaving Australia affect another visa application or pathway?

These questions can make a big difference to your options.

The most important thing to remember

The new rules don’t mean you cannot study in Australia.

They mean that some people can no longer switch to a Student visa while they are already in Australia.

If you are currently in Australia on another temporary visa, don’t assume the rules are the same as they were before 2 October 2026.

Your current visa, your circumstances and your future plans all need to be considered.

Need help with your Student visa options?

At MigrateWise Solutions, we can look at your current visa, your study plans and your longer-term goals and explain what options may be available to you.

If you are already in Australia and thinking about studying, it is worth getting advice before you enrol, book flights or let your current visa get close to expiry.

Book a consultation with us today and use the discount code BLOG2026 for a $50 discount.

by Tommaso Castelli (MARN: 2117652)

The post New Student Visa Rules from 2 October 2026: What You Need to Know appeared first on Migratewise Solutions.

Here is a simple and easy-to-follow explanation of what has been announced so far.

1. Student and Graduate Visas: New Limits on Family Members

The Government has announced that new Student visa and Temporary Graduate visa applicants will generally not be able to include dependants. This is a significant shift.

Students who are already in Australia with their families may not be separated. There may be small exemptions for PhD candidates, postgraduate researchers and some Pacific and ASEAN nationals, but we need to wait for the formal policy release.

4. Stronger Controls on Course Changes

The Government wants to reduce situations where students enrol in multiple courses at the same or lower level just to stay longer in Australia. Students may need to show clear academic progression, such as moving from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree.

This means you should not rely on enrolling in another course to extend your stay. Course changes will need careful planning.

3. Skilled Migration: Updated Priorities and Points

There are also proposed updates to the skilled migration points system. Some trade qualifications linked to housing may receive the same points as university degrees.

Priority processing is expected to expand for occupations facing critical shortages, including construction, agriculture, fisheries and teaching.

Employer-sponsored migration appears mostly stable for now, but occupation lists and priorities may shift.

4. Visitor Visas: Possible Wider Use of “No Further Stay”

The Government plans to apply Condition 8503 to most future Visitor visas. This condition stops you from applying for another visa while you are inside Australia, unless you qualify for a rare waiver.

If this becomes law, it will be especially important for couples hoping to lodge an onshore Partner visa. You should not assume you can enter Australia as a visitor and then apply for a Partner visa from inside the country. Planning ahead will be essential.

The Government has said this will not affect people who already hold a Visitor visa. We are waiting for the official start date and the exact details.

5. Working Holiday Visas: Ballot System for Additional Visas

The Working Holiday program is also set for major changes. Completing the required farm work or other specified work will no longer guarantee a second or third visa. Instead, eligible applicants will enter a ballot with limited places.

The proposed annual caps are:

• 45,000 places for second Working Holiday visas
• 5,000 places for third Working Holiday visas

This is far fewer than the number of people who currently qualify each year. UK passport holders may not be affected due to the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement, but we will need to see the final rules.

6. Stronger Compliance and Enforcement

The Government has signalled a tougher stance on visa overstayers and unlawful non-citizens. More enforcement activity is expected, including voluntary departures and removals.

There will also be stronger action against migration agents who submit applications without merit. This is part of a broader focus on integrity and protecting vulnerable migrants.

What This Means for You

The main themes are clear:

• Less onshore visa hopping
• Fewer opportunities to extend stays through temporary visas
• Tighter rules for Student and Graduate visa family members
• Limited access to second and third Working Holiday visas
• More focus on skilled migration linked to housing and essential industries
• Stronger compliance and enforcement

These changes have begun to be implemented and will be progressively rolled out over the next 12 months. The final impact will depend on the legislation, regulations and policy instructions that follow.

Need Help Understanding Your Options?

If you are planning to travel, change courses, lodge a Partner visa, apply for a Graduate visa or rely on future Working Holiday options, you should get advice before making any decisions.

At MigrateWise Solutions, we help applicants understand these changes and plan their visa pathway with confidence. If you need personalised guidance book a consultation with us today and use the code BLOG2026 for a $50 discount.

Published on 18 September 2026 by Tommaso Castelli (MARN 2117652)

The post Australia’s New Migration Reform Announcements: What You Should Know appeared first on Migratewise Solutions.

Here is a simple and friendly explanation of what has happened, why it happened, and what it means for you.

1. The Government Has Cancelled the GDML for International Students

On 5 September 2026, a new legislative instrument came into effect. This instrument places the GDML on a special list of courses that must be automatically suspended and then cancelled.

What does this mean? If a provider still has international students actively studying the GDML 30 days after the instrument starts, the course is automatically suspended. Students who already started can continue until they finish or withdraw, but:

• No new students can be recruited
• No new enrolments can be accepted
• No new commencements are allowed

Once all current students finish or withdraw, the course is automatically cancelled. Any future CoEs must also be cancelled.

Providers cannot apply to register or renew the GDML while this instrument is in force.

2. Why the Government Took This Action

The government explained that the GDML has shown several serious integrity concerns over recent years. According to the official statement, the course has experienced:

• Rapid and disproportionate growth
• Very high non‑commencement rates
• Low completion rates
• A large number of onshore transfers
• High visa refusal rates
• Heavy use in packaged course arrangements

Together, these issues suggest that the GDML has often been used for visa‑related purposes rather than genuine study or qualification progression. The government believes this has created risks for the student visa program and for the reputation of Australia’s international education sector.

The Assistant Minister for International Education also noted that more than 41,000 active CoEs exist for this course, with 15,772 students currently studying and 452 VET providers offering it. Because of this scale, the government decided that strong action was necessary.

3. What This Means for Current and Future Students

If you are already studying the GDML, you can continue your course. You are protected by transitional arrangements, and your provider must allow you to complete your studies.

If you have not yet started, your CoE may be cancelled and you may not be able to commence the GDML.

If you were planning to study the GDML in the future, you will need to choose a different qualification. The government has highlighted that many alternative management and leadership courses remain available across VET and higher education.

4. Why This Matters for Visa Applicants

This decision is part of a broader effort to improve quality and reduce misuse of the student visa system. The government wants to ensure that international students receive genuine education and that Australia remains a trusted study destination.

For visa applicants, this means:

• You must select alternative courses
• You should avoid relying on high‑risk qualifications
• You should expect stronger integrity measures across the sector

Need Help Understanding Your Options?

At MigrateWise Solutions, we help students and skilled professionals navigate changes like this and choose the right study pathway for their visa goals. If you were planning to study the GDML or are affected by this change, we can guide you through your alternatives and help you move forward confidently.

Book a consultation with us today and use the code BLOG2026 for a $50 discount.

by Tommaso Castelli (MARN: 2117652)

The post Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) Cancelled for International Students: What You Need to Know appeared first on Migratewise Solutions.

This update is very important for visa applicants, especially international students, workers, and families who may need to challenge a Department of Home Affairs decision.

1. ART Fees Have Increased From Today

Starting today, all ART application fees are higher. These increases happen every year because fees are adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

New Fees From 1 July 2026

• Standard application fee: $1,195
• Review of a migration decision: $3,727
• Review of a protection visa decision: $2,293
• Small business taxation review: $641
• Tax disputes under $5,000: $119
• Guidance and Appeals Panel review: $1,195

The concessional fee of $100 remains the same.

Fee Reduction for Financial Hardship

If you are applying for a migration review and you are experiencing financial difficulties, you may still be able to request a 50% fee reduction.

NDIS Review Fees Now Apply

From today, people who want the ART to review a decision made by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissioner must also pay the standard fee.

2. New Rules for How Some Visa Reviews Are Decided

Another change began earlier this year, on 18 May 2026. The ART now has more power to decide some cases without holding a hearing. This is called deciding a matter “on the papers.”

What This Means

If your case is decided on the papers:

• You will not attend a hearing
• You will not speak directly to a Tribunal member
• The decision will be based only on written documents

Temporary Visas May Soon Be Affected

The Migration Act now allows certain temporary visa reviews to be decided only on the papers. No temporary visa types have been listed yet, but the government can add them at any time.

Permanent and protection visa reviews are not affected.

3. How You Can Prepare

A. Start Early

If you think you will need a review, begin preparing your documents now.

B. Write Clear Submissions

Your written explanation is extremely important, especially if your case is decided on the papers.

C. Watch Your Deadlines

Missing an ART deadline can result in your review being dismissed.

D. Ask About Fee Reductions

If you are struggling financially, check whether you qualify for the 50% reduction.

Need Help? We Can Guide You Through the ART Process

At MigrateWise Solutions, we help clients prepare strong review applications, clear written submissions, and complete all ART requirements correctly.

If you are unsure about your next step, or if you want to understand how these changes affect your case, book a consultation with us today. We will guide you through the process with clear, simple advice.

Use the code BLOG2026 at checkout for a $50 consultation discount.

by Tommaso Castelli (MARN: 2117652)

The post Partner Visa Processing Times: What to Expect in 2026 appeared first on Migratewise Solutions.

If you are planning to apply for a skilled visa, or if you already have an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect, this update is important for you.

1. Summary of the June 2026 Invitation Round

On 4 June 2026, the Department invited 10,000 EOIs for the Subclass 189 visa.

Tie-break date:

24 April 2026 This means that among applicants with the same points score, the Department invited those who reached their score earlier.

What is a tie-break date?

When two EOIs have the same points score, the Department looks at the date the applicant achieved that score. The EOI with the earlier date is invited first.

2. Points-Based Invitation System (Simple Explanation)

The Subclass 189 visa is points-tested. This means:

• Applicants with higher points are invited first.
• If two applicants have the same points, the one who reached that score earlier gets priority.

This is why keeping your EOI updated,  and reaching your points score as early as possible,  is important.

3.Minimum Scores by Occupation (June 2026 Round)

The Department has published the minimum points invited for each occupation. Here is a simple overview:

High-demand occupations with very high scores (90–100 points)

• Actuary – 90
• Biotechnologist – 95
• Electronics Engineer – 95
• Life Scientist (General) – 95
• Microbiologist – 95
• Statistician – 90
• Telecommunications Engineer – 95
• Urologist – 100

Most professional occupations (75–85 points)

Many occupations were invited at 80–85 points, including:

• Architects
• Environmental Scientists
• Medical Practitioners
• Psychologists
• Social Workers
• Teachers
• Engineers
• Management Consultants
• Veterinarians

Trades occupations (65–80 points)

Many trade occupations were invited at 65 points, including:

• Carpenter
• Electrician (General)
• Plumber
• Bricklayer
• Roof Plumber
• Stonemason
• Welder
• Fibrous Plasterer

This shows that trade occupations continue to be in demand, with lower points thresholds compared to professional occupations.

4. Total Invitations for the 2025–26 Program Year

Across the entire program year, the Department issued:

• 6,887 invitations in August 2025
• 10,000 invitations in November 2025
• 10,000 invitations in June 2026

No invitations were issued in other months.

This means the Department invited 26,887 applicants for the Subclass 189 visa during the 2025–26 year.

5. When Is the Next Invitation Round?

The Department has confirmed that the next Subclass 189 invitation round for the 2026–27 program year is expected by 30 September 2026.

If you want to be considered in the next round, now is the time to:

• Update your EOI
• Improve your points score
• Check your occupation’s demand
• Ensure your documents are ready

6.What This Means for You

If your occupation requires high points

You may need to improve your score through:

• English test upgrades
• Additional work experience
• Professional year
• NAATI CCL
• Partner points

If you work in a trade occupation

You may already be competitive at 65–70 points, but your EOI must be accurate and up to date.

If your EOI is close to the tie-break date

Updating your EOI today may help you reach your score earlier for the next round.

Need Help With Your EOI or Skilled Visa Strategy?

At MigrateWise Solutions, we help skilled workers:

• Improve their points score
• Prepare strong EOIs
• Understand occupation demand
• Plan for upcoming invitation rounds
• Avoid mistakes that delay or damage their visa chances

If you want personalised guidance for your Subclass 189 strategy, book a consultation with us today. We explain everything in simple English and help you build the strongest possible application.

Use the code BLOG2026 at checkout for a $50 consultation discount.

by Tommaso Castelli (MARN: 2117652)

The post Subclass 189 Visa: June Invitation Round Results appeared first on Migratewise Solutions.

The good news is that nothing has changed in the actual assessment process. The update is simply about making the guidelines easier to read and understand.

Here is a simple explanation of what has changed and what it means for you.

1. TRA Has Updated Its Program Guidelines

TRA has redesigned its guidelines to make them clearer and more user-friendly. Many applicants come from different countries and may not have strong English skills, so TRA has tried to make the information easier to follow.

What has changed?

TRA has focused on:

• • Simpler language
  • Step-by-step instructions
  • Better alignment across all TRA programs
  • Clearer explanations of what applicants need to do and when

This means the guidelines should now be easier to read, especially for people who are not familiar with Australian migration processes.

What has NOT changed?

TRA has confirmed that:

• • The assessment process is the same
  • The eligibility criteria are the same
  • The assessment outcomes are the same

So, if you are already preparing your skills assessment, you do not need to worry about new rules or new requirements. Only the presentation of the information has changed, not the actual process.

2. Why TRA Updated the Guidelines

TRA assessments are used by many skilled workers, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, mechanics, chefs, and many other trades. Because these assessments are important for visa applications, TRA wants to make sure applicants clearly understand:

• • What documents they need
  • How to submit their evidence
  • What steps come next
  • How long the process may take

By using simpler language and clearer instructions, TRA aims to reduce confusion and help applicants avoid mistakes that can delay their assessment.

3. How This Helps Visa Applicants

Even though the assessment process has not changed, the new guidelines can make your experience easier. Here’s how:

A. Easier to understand

If English is not your first language, the new guidelines should be more accessible.

B. Clear steps to follow

The new step-by-step format helps you understand exactly what to do.

C. Less chance of errors

Clearer instructions means fewer mistakes and fewer delays.

D. Better support for migration agents

Registered Migration Agents can now explain the process more easily to their clients.

4.Where to Find the New Guidelines

You can access them here:

Policy and Forms | Trades Recognition Australia https://www.tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au/policy-and-forms

This page includes guidelines for all TRA programs, including:

• Migration Skills Assessment (MSA)
• Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP)
• Trades Recognition Service (TRS)
• Job Ready Program (JRP)

Need Help With Your TRA Skills Assessment?

At MigrateWise Solutions, we help skilled workers understand TRA requirements, prepare documents correctly, and avoid common mistakes that cause delays.

If you want personalised guidance or support with your skills assessment, book a consultation with us today. We will explain everything in simple English and help you move forward confidently.

Use the code BLOG2026 at checkout for a $50 consultation discount.

by Tommaso Castelli (MARN: 2117652)

The post TRA Updates Its Program Guidelines: What Applicants Should Know appeared first on Migratewise Solutions.