This page contains information about Australian immigration law sourced from official government legislation. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice. For advice specific to your circumstances, consult a registered migration agent (MARN).

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Australian immigration programs

Australia Department of Home Affairs

Australia's migration program is divided into four streams administered by the Department of Home Affairs under the Migration Act 1958 and Migration Regulations 1994. The size and composition of the permanent migration program is set annually by the Government.

Skilled migration

  • Points-tested pathway — SkillSelect-managed system for the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated), and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visas. Candidates submit an Expression of Interest and are ranked by points score.
  • Employer-sponsored pathway — Skills in Demand visa (Subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494). Requires an approved sponsor and a nomination.

Family stream

  • Family stream — Partner visas (Subclasses 820/801 onshore, 309/100 offshore), child visas, parent visas, and other family subclasses. Sponsored by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Humanitarian program

  • Humanitarian program — Refugee resettlement (Subclass 200), Special Humanitarian program (Subclass 202), onshore protection (Subclass 866 Protection visa), and temporary protection for unauthorised maritime arrivals (Subclass 785 TPV / Subclass 790 SHEV).

Legislation