Skilled · Published 2026-05-19
Complete guide to Australian immigration in 2026
Australia’s migration system changes often. This guide gives you an answer-first overview of the main pathways as they stand in 2026, with links to the official sources for fees and processing times.
The main pathways
- Skilled — points-tested visas (189, 190, 491) and the Graduate 485.
- Employer-sponsored — the Skills in Demand visa (482) and ENS 186.
- Family — partner, parent and child visas.
- Business & Investor — the 188 / 888 program.
- Student & Visitor — the 500 and 600 visas.
How points work
Skilled visas use a points test covering age, English, skilled work experience and qualifications. See our points calculator for an estimate.
Fees and processing times
These change regularly. Each visa page shows the current figure with the date it was verified and a link to the official Department of Home Affairs source.