Partner Visa Processing Times: What to Expect in 2026

Today is 1 July 2026, and important changes have officially begun for anyone applying for a review of a visa decision in Australia. The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) has increased its fees, and new rules about how some visa reviews are decided are already in place.

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)