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From 19 September 2026, healthcare Subclass 482 applications lodged from outside Australia can again receive the highest processing priority, under a new Ministerial Direction that replaces the one that took effect in July. What has changed Ministerial Direction 121 was signed on 18 September 2026 and commenced on 19 September 2026. It sets the order in which the Department of Home Affairs considers Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) applications, and it expressly revokes Direct

On 17 September, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced one of the largest overhauls to Australia's visa system in recent years, aimed at bringing net overseas migration down from around 292,000 to a target of 225,000 by 2028. His message was blunt: "If you want to come on a temporary basis to Australia, apply for a temporary visa." Most of these changes are being made through regulation and ministerial direction rather than new legislation, which means they can move fast

If you've applied for, or are planning to apply for, an Australian Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) or Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462), you may have noticed things are moving more slowly than they used to. Here's what's actually going on, and what it means for your plans. What's changed On 16 August 2026, Australia's Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that Working Holiday Maker visa processing was being deliberately slowed. He was quoted as saying applications

If you're working towards an Australian skilled visa and your occupation needs a skills assessment from VETASSESS, there's a date worth putting in your diary: 9 September 2026. From that date, VETASSESS is increasing its fees for professional skills assessments, and because a positive skills assessment is a building block for several of Australia's most popular skilled visa pathways, this is worth understanding now rather than after you've paid. What's changing VETASSESS (the

Immigration update from Queenstown Immigration — 25 August 2026 If you've been waiting for the dust to settle on New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) changes, we are now live. As of 24 August 2026, Immigration New Zealand's confirmed changes to the SMC Resident Visa and the related work to residence visas have officially come into effect. Here's what's actually changed, in plain English, and what it means if you're partway through your journey to residence — or just s

Here's a question we're hearing more often from high-net-worth clients: "Can I actually buy my way into New Zealand?" The honest answer is no... but you can invest your way into it. That's what the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa is for, and interest in it has grown significantly since New Zealand overhauled the settings in April 2025. What is the AIP visa? Active Investor Plus is New Zealand's residence-by-investment category. It replaced the old Investor 1 and Investor 2 vi

Across the Tasman, Migration Tasmania announced on 5 August 2026 that its state nomination program for subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) and subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visas reopens for Registrations of Interest (ROI) from 17 August 2026, with weekly invitations to apply for nomination starting 20 August 2026. For the 2026–27 program year, Tasmania has a total of 2,050 nomination places: 1,250 for subclass 190 and 800 for subclass 491. One notable shift is that Migra

If you're on a pathway to New Zealand residence, or thinking about it, the next few weeks matter more than you might realise. On 24 August 2026, Immigration New Zealand is introducing significant changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) — the most substantial overhaul to this residence pathway in years. Here's what's changing, what it means for you, and why acting now could make a real difference. What Is the Skilled Migrant Category? The Skilled Migrant Category Residen

Immigration New Zealand has announced further changes to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) that will take effect in August 2026. These updates build on the reforms introduced in 2025 and aim to make it easier for skilled workers already contributing to New Zealand’s workforce to obtain residence. The changes introduce new residence pathways, simplified wage rules, and clearer eligibility criteria, particularly for experienced workers and skilled tradespeople. For migrants pl

Immigration New Zealand has announced important changes to employment conditions for people on open work visas, coming into effect on Monday, 20 April 2026

If you’re planning to study in New Zealand for the upcoming mid-year intake, now is the time to act. Whether you’re enrolling in a university degree, or another approved course of study, preparing your enrolment and student visa application early gives you the best chance of a smooth and timely outcome. Why Apply Early? Mid-year intakes (typically June/July) are popular with international students who may have missed the earlier semester or are aligning their studies with aca

Immigration New Zealand is set to raise the median wage threshold for visa applications starting March 9, 2026. The hourly median wage will increase from $33.56 to $35.00. This change affects many prospective migrants and employers alike, shaping the landscape of skilled immigration and work opportunities in New Zealand. Understanding this update is crucial for applicants, recruiters, and businesses planning ahead. Queenstown, New Zealand What the Median Wage Increase Means T

New Zealand Announces Major Changes to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa (Effective August 2026) Immigration New Zealand has confirmed significant reforms to the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Resident Visa, designed to strengthen the country’s ability to attract and retain highly skilled workers and support long-term economic growth. These changes will come into effect from August 2026 and mark one of the most substantial updates to the residence landscape in recent

I’m pleased to share an exciting update: I have now been approved as a registered Australian Migration Agent (MARN), in addition to holding my New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA) license. This dual licensing means I am authorised to provide regulated immigration advice for both Australia and New Zealand, ensuring clients receive compliant, accurate and up-to-date guidance across both jurisdictions. Why this matters for employers and migrants Australia and New Zeala

Immigrating to New Zealand is an exciting prospect for many. Known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant community, and outdoor lifestyle, NZ offers a unique living experience. However, moving to a new country and settling in a new town requires careful planning and understanding of the immigration process. This guide provides essential tips to help you navigate immigration to NZ smoothly and make your transition as seamless as possible. Understanding Immigration to NZ Before

New Zealand continues to attract young travelers eager to explore its stunning landscapes while gaining work experience. The Working Holiday Visa scheme offers a unique chance for people aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for some countries) to live and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months (36 months for some). For many, this visa is the gateway to adventure, cultural exchange, and personal growth. Immigration New Zealand has recently announced the opening dates and the number of places

When planning to move to New Zealand, navigating the immigration process can be complex and overwhelming. Choosing the right Licensed Immigration Adviser can make a significant difference in your application’s success. This guide will help you understand what to look for in an immigration adviser, how to find one, and what questions to ask to ensure you get the best support possible. Why You Need Queenstown Immigration Immigration laws and policies in New Zealand are constant

New Zealand is a stunning country known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming communities. Whether you are planning to visit for tourism, work, study, or to live permanently, understanding the visa system is crucial. Navigating the visa process can be complex, but with the right information, you can find the best pathway to enter and stay in New Zealand. This guide will walk you through the main NZ visa categories, explain the types of visas availabl

Changes to Skilled Migrant Category announced

Queenstown, New Zealand — Queenstown Immigration has been honoured as the Best Immigration Law Service 2025 – South Island NZ at the prestigious APAC Insider Legal Awards , recognising outstanding legal services across the Asia-Pacific region. This accolade highlights Queenstown Immigration’s exceptional contribution to supporting individuals, families and businesses navigating the complex landscape of New Zealand immigration law. With migration continuing to shape New Zeal