Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 417 (Working Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026
What changed
Australia has changed the rules for the Subclass 417 Working Holiday visa. The Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 417 (Working Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026, also known as LIN 26/048, started on 1 July 2026. It replaced the previous document from 2022. The main change is a higher maximum age for people who hold passports from: * Cyprus * Finland * Germany * Republic of Korea For these passport holders, the maximum age went up from 30 to 35. The document also sets out other ways the Subclass 417 visa works. This includes the approved application form, how and where to apply, eligible passports, and country-specific rules.
The detail
Policy history
Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 417 (Working Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026Related changes
United StatesWork PermitsProposalAmended 9 Nov 2026 U.S. Proposes $70,000 Initial Fee for Optional Practical Training
What changed
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated a proposed rulemaking to introduce substantial new fees for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 nonimmigrant students. This measure, announced on 8 October 2026, aims to enhance the integrity of the immigration system by deterring fraud and protecting the interests of U.S. workers. Under the proposal, an initial OPT application would incur a fee of $70,000, while any subsequent OPT would cost $30,000. Stakeholders have until 9 November 2026 to submit comments on these proposed changes.
Published 8 Oct 2026Federal Register — Immigration rules & notices
DenmarkWork PermitsEffectiveEffective 5 Oct 2026 Denmark's SIRI Updates Practice Note on Presumption Rule for Work and Residence Permits
What changed
The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) has updated its practice note on how it applies the 'rule of presumption' in processing applications for residence and work permits under certain business schemes. This revised note, published on 5 October 2026, outlines SIRI's current practice and includes an expanded review of presumption elements, based on recent decisions from both SIRI and the Immigration Appeals Board. It replaces the previous version from 2021, providing clearer guidance on the assessment criteria for these applications.
Published 5 Oct 2026Effective 5 Oct 2026New to Denmark — News
AustraliaStudent VisasEffectiveEffective 2 Oct 2026 Australia Amends Classes of Persons for Student (Temporary) (Class TU) Visa Applications
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.
Published 1 Oct 2026Effective 2 Oct 2026Federal Register of Legislation — Migration instruments
AustraliaStudent VisasEffectiveEffective 2 Oct 2026 Australia Amends Student Visa Regulations to Impose Stricter Onshore Application Requirements and Family Unit Criteria
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.
Published 1 Oct 2026Effective 2 Oct 2026Federal Register of Legislation — Migration instruments
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