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Applicants interested in NSW nomination for the Subclass 858 NIV can now submit their ROI online. Registrations of Interest (ROI) are now open for NSW Government nomination for the Subclass 858 National Innovation Visa (NIV) – a permanent visa pathway for individuals with exceptional talent and achievement in their field. Key Points to Remember: Useful Resources: Click here- NSW National Innovation Visa – Nomination and Application Information

Applicants invited to participate in the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships can apply for specific visas with a nil visa application charge (VAC) under a newly issued migration instrument. The Migration (Class of Persons for Nil VAC—2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships) Instrument 2025 (LIN 25/092) allows certain applicants for the Visitor visa (subclass 600) and Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) to apply with no visa application charge (VAC) if they can provide evidence of being invited to participate in the 2025 Virtus World Athletics Championships. This instrument came into effect on 29 July 2025 and will self-repeal on 16 October 2025, following the conclusion of the Virtus Championships. Click here-LIN 25/092– 2025 Virtus Championships Nil VAC details

The current medical provider for migration health exams in Alice Springs is no longer operating under contract with BUPA. A replacement is being sought, but no interim arrangements have been announced. BUPA’s contract with the current clinic providing migration health examinations in Alice Springs has ended and will not be renewed. BUPA has advised that they are actively seeking a new medical provider to deliver these services. However, no timeframe has been provided for when a replacement provider will be in place. The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed this information and stated that it will continue to prioritise the engagement of another clinic in Alice Springs. However, no alternative interim arrangements have been specified at this stage.

Skills assessments are now open for 19 newly added FNQ DAMA occupations. VETASSESS has confirmed it is now accepting skills assessment applications for 19 additional occupations recently added to the Far North Queensland Designated Area Migration Agreement (FNQ DAMA). Its eligibility tool and assessment processes have been updated to reflect these changes. Eligible Occupations Now Open for Assessment:

Application fees for skills assessments will rise from 22 October 2025 in line with CPI. VETASSESS has announced that from 22 October 2025, application fees for professional and general occupation assessments will increase in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). These changes will also apply to assessments under Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA) and Industry Labour Agreements. The fee increase will not apply to trade occupation assessments. Click here- VETASSESS website News Fees To apply from 22 october 2025

The Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from higher education providers to have their courses approved for qualification as a Registered Migration Agent (RMA) in Australia. With the current legislative instrument IMMI 18/003 set to sunset on 1 April 2026, the Department of Home Affairs is preparing a new instrument to reflect modern industry knowledge standards. The remake of Migration (IMMI 18/003: Specified courses and exams for registration as a migration agent) Instrument 2018 is underway. The Department of Home Affairs will assess all existing and new courses before including them in the updated instrument. This is a crucial opportunity for higher education providers to ensure their programs remain compliant and recognised under future RMA registration standards. Higher education providers that wish to offer qualifying courses for RMAs must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to be considered for inclusion in the revised instrument. Key Information:• IMMI 18/003 will expire on 1 April 2026• All current and new courses must be formally assessed for inclusion• Submissions are open to all higher education providers• The updated instrument will reflect contemporary knowledge standards expected of migration professionals How to Participate: Click here –

New South Wales is now offering nomination for the National Innovation Visa (NIV, subclass 858) — a permanent residency visa for individuals with internationally recognised talent across key sectors. This is your opportunity to secure permanent residency and contribute to one of Australia’s most advanced innovation ecosystems. NSW-nominated NIV applicants benefit from Priority Group 2 visa processing, giving you a faster path to approval. Whether you’re a researcher, entrepreneur, creative, investor, or sports professional, this program recognises and rewards global excellence. The visa is permanent from day one, meaning you and your family can live and work in NSW without restrictions. NSW offers the right mix of innovation precincts, global investment, research networks, and liveability to support your success. Explore Your Pathway – Who Can Apply?Choose the stream that best reflects your background and accomplishments:• Academics & Researchers – Globally recognised with strong publication records and NSW links• Entrepreneurs – Founders of IP-rich startups with traction (users, capital, or revenue)• Innovative Investors – Angel or venture investors with a record of impact and intent to invest in NSW• Creative Professionals – Internationally recognised designers, artists, filmmakers or performers• Sports Professionals – Elite athletes, coaches, or sports scientists shaping the future of sport in NSW Step-by-Step Guide: How the NSW Nomination Process Works Why You Should Prepare Now:• One chance every 6 months – Make it count• Avoid last-minute errors – Be ready when ROIs open• Tight timelines – Just 21 days to apply once invited Click here –

The Victorian Government is now offering nomination for the National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) — a permanent residency pathway for individuals with outstanding global achievements in their field. Being nominated by the Victorian Government strengthens your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Department of Home Affairs and qualifies you for Priority Two visa processing. The National Innovation Visa enables exceptionally talented individuals to live permanently in Australia. Victoria is seeking high-calibre candidates who can boost the state’s innovation, economy, and global presence. Please note that while state nomination improves your chances, it does not guarantee an invitation to apply from the Australian Government. To be considered for Victorian nomination, candidates must demonstrate a strong track record of global achievement and a genuine commitment to contribute to Victoria’s future in sectors such as research, innovation, entrepreneurship, the arts, sport, and other high-impact fields. Key Eligibility for Victorian Nomination:• Demonstrate exceptional talent through significant achievements• Engage with a Victorian Government department or agency• Be referred by a Victorian Government department or agency• Meet the Department of Home Affairs’ visa criteria• Be under 55 years old (or provide a compelling case if under 18 or over 55)• Show a genuine commitment to live and contribute to Victoria How It Works:Victorian Government departments and agencies can identify and nominate candidates with recognised expertise in their field. Once nominated, your application proceeds under Priority Two for faster processing consideration. Click here –

From 23 July 2025, the Department of Home Affairs is introducing a new online feature that allows applicants for Child, Long Term Resident, and Other Family visas to import their paper applications into ImmiAccount. While applications for these visa subclasses must still be lodged using the paper form, after the application is acknowledged by the Department you will be able to import your application into ImmiAccount. This new functionality makes it easier to manage your application online. The new ImmiAccount import feature improves visa applicants’ access to their applications and enhances communication with the Department of Home Affairs. It applies to both new and existing applications, except for some older offshore applications lodged before the following dates: Child (sc101), Adoption (sc102), or Orphan Relative (sc117) visas lodged before 1 April 2020; and Aged Dependent (sc114), Remaining Relative (sc115), or Carer (sc116) visas lodged before 25 June 2020. Once imported, you can attach documents, update details, and track the progress of your application online. Visa subclasses covered: Key Benefits:• Attach additional documents to your application• View correspondence from the Department• Update applicant details• Track application progress• Apply for a Bridging Visa (if eligible)• Use online withdrawal forms Step-by-Step Guide: How to Import Your Application