Find out the most recent information on processing schedules for the 190/491 visa, Australia’s National Innovation Visa, and the next four-year state migration program.



With an emphasis on future visa possibilities and migration process planning, this report highlights significant advancements and changes in Australia’s migration programs. The following material is organized for ease of reading and offers details on anticipated schedules and program modifications.

National Innovation Visa

In order to draw in elite talent, the National Innovation Visa will be a very selective program. By bringing in talented immigrants in cutting-edge industries like advanced robotics, quantum computing, and clean energy technologies, this program aims to increase Australia’s productivity.

State Nominations for 190/491 Visas

The demand for 190 and 491 visas is anticipated to exceed the available limit for the 2024–2025 term due to the current nomination levels. Applicants may therefore expect longer processing delays.

– Expected Delays: In 2024–2025, processing times are expected to increase; certain applications may take up to 18 months to be approved.

– Extended Timelines: Additionally, it is anticipated that these increased wait times will persist throughout 2025–2026.

Future State Migration Program

For Australia’s permanent migration program, the planning framework will change from a one-year outlook to a four-year cycle in 2025–2026.

– New Planning Structure: Together with preliminary numbers for the next three years, the government will establish the migration goals for the first year.

– Flexible Program Range: A ‘range’ system will be introduced, providing upper and lower bounds within which migration numbers can adjust over the four-year cycle, ensuring adaptability to changing national needs. This strategy will be applied uniformly to all visa types.

The government’s dedication to improving migration rules to satisfy upcoming technical and economic demands is shown in this update.