Breaking Down Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program Over the Years

On 2 September 2025, the Albanese Government confirmed that Australia’s Permanent Migration Program for 2025–26 will remain capped at 185,000 places—the same level as the previous year.

This decision, shaped through extensive consultation with state and territory governments, brings much-needed certainty for both employers and individuals planning to migrate to Australia.

But what do these numbers truly mean? Emerson’s experienced immigration lawyers in Brisbane break down Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program and how it compares with previous years.

Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program | What’s changed from previous years
The Skilled Stream
The Family Stream
How Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program Compares Internationally and what this means for Applicants
How a Migration Lawyer in Brisbane can help you move to Australia in 2025/26

Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program | What’s changed from previous years

While the overall cap hasn’t shifted, the composition of the program continues to reflect Australia’s long-term economic and social priorities. As outlined by the Department of Home Affairs, places are divided into three categories, two of which remain key:

Skilled visas: 132,200 places
Family visas: 52,500 places
Special eligibility: 300 places, for returning residents and other unique circumstances

The Skilled stream continues to dominate, accounting for more than 70% of the total intake. Family visas hold steady at just over a quarter of the program, while special eligibility remains limited. See graphic below:

Skilled Migration: Still the Backbone

With 132,200 places available, the Skilled Migration Stream remains the cornerstone of Australia’s program, designed to attract professionals who can strengthen the economy and fill critical labour shortages.

Healthcare, aged care, engineering, IT, construction, and education remain the priority sectors. Within this stream, the main skilled visa options include employer-sponsored visas (44,000 places), state-nominated visas (33,000), regional visas (33,000), and a smaller number of independent and talent-based options.

For highly skilled applicants without an employer sponsor, the Skilled Independent visa (16,900 places) offers a path based on a points-tested system. The Global Talent visa (4,300 places) remains open to individuals with exceptional achievements in target sectors, while the Business Innovation and Investment Program (1,000 places) continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors with proven track records.

The Family Stream: Reuniting with Loved Ones in Australia

A total of 52,500 places, (equivalent to 28.4% of the full migration program), were allocated to the Family Stream, helping Australian citizens and permanent residents reunite with close family members.

Most of these places are directed to partner visas (40,500), which facilitate the reunion of spouses and de facto partners. Parent visas (8,500) make up a smaller proportion, but applicants should expect long processing times, sometimes stretching over several years. Smaller allocations exist for child visas (3,000) and other family categories (500).

Applicants in the Family Stream must be aware of strict evidentiary requirements, particularly in proving genuine relationships for partner visas and meeting financial and health criteria for parent visas. Errors or incomplete documentation can result in a refusal and years of delay.

Speak to a Lawyer today

If you are interested in getting more information about a visa, get in touch with Emerson Migration Law for a consultation.

If you intend to apply to a Family or Skilled Visa in 2026, see the dedicated page to learn how our migration experts in Brisbane can help.

How Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program Compares Internationally

Australia’s steady approach stands in contrast to some other western countries.

Canada, for example, has adopted a more aggressive intake approach. Its latest Immigration Levels Plan sets a target of 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, gradually decreasing to 365,000 by 2027 — a reflection of both its larger population and shifting political priorities.

The United Kingdom, on the other hand, is moving in the opposite direction. As of July 2025, the UK has significantly tightened visa requirements for skilled workers, raising the minimum salary threshold to £41,700 and increasing the required skill level to RQF Level 6 (graduate level) — excluding many roles that were previously eligible under lower thresholds.

Against this global backdrop, Australia’s continued cap of 185,000 places signals not only policy continuity, but also growing competition for limited places — especially within the skilled migration stream.

For prospective migrants, staying informed and well-prepared has never been more important.

How a Migration Lawyer in Brisbane can help you move to Australia in 2025/2026

With the 2025–26 Permanent Migration Program now confirmed, this is an ideal time to assess your migration options.

If you are considering migrating to Australia, or sponsoring a family member or skilled worker, our team of experienced migration lawyers in Brisbane is here to assist you with the following services:

As proud members of the Migration Institute of Australia, our trusted commitment to fixed fees allows our clients to know the costs from the outset without surprises. Click here to request a commitment-free consultation with us and take your next step with confidence and clarity.