Australia Updates Arrangements for Child Visa Applications

What changed

On 13 October 2026, the Victorian Government announced new service fees for people applying for state nomination under its skilled migration programme for 2026–27. These fees will apply at two stages: when you register your interest (called a Registration of Interest, or ROI) and when you apply for nomination. These changes affect two types of Australian skilled visas: the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), which leads to permanent residence, and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), which is a temporary visa allowing you to live and work in a regional area with a pathway to permanent residence later on.

What changed

The Migration (LIN 20/158: Class of Persons for Student (Temporary) (Class TU) Visa Applications) Amendment Instrument 2026 introduces changes to the eligibility criteria for Student (Temporary) (Class TU) visa applicants in Australia. These amendments, which apply to certain classes of persons including doctoral students and family members, will be in force from 2 October 2026. The instrument revises existing provisions related to visa application arrangements and conditions for specified student cohorts.

What changed

The Migration Amendment (Student Visa Reform) Regulations 2026 introduces significant changes to the eligibility criteria for Subclass 500 (Student) visa applications. As of 2 October 2026, certain primary student visa holders must be outside Australia to apply for a new student visa, and secondary applicants will face new restrictions on applying from onshore. These amendments aim to tighten visa integrity by curbing repeated onshore applications and ensuring clearer eligibility for family unit members.

What changed

Sweden has introduced new immigration rules for family reunification and young adults, which come into effect on 1 October 2026. These rules mean that people in Sweden who sponsor family members now need to meet higher income requirements. At the same time, young adults who are already in Sweden will have more ways to stay with their parents, including a temporary option to apply for different types of permits without having to leave the country. These changes will affect sponsoring individuals and anyone applying for, or extending, a residence permit based on family ties.