On 25 July 2026, three new Ministerial Directions came into effect, changing how visa applications are prioritised for processing.

Importantly, the eligibility rules haven’t changed – the order of the queue has. The new directions also apply to applications already lodged and awaiting a decision.

For employer-sponsored visas, some of the biggest changes include the Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa now falling within the priority framework, the removal of priority for Accredited Sponsors and regional applications, and a greater distinction between onshore and offshore applicants.

There are also changes affecting family visas and the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858).

What does this mean for you?

The changes could impact where your current and future visa applications sit in the processing queue and ultimately, how long they take to be decided.

Watch our full breakdown below, where we unpack the new Ministerial Directions and what they mean in practice.