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The Australian Government has confirmed that the permanent Migration Program for 2025-26 will remain at 185,000 places, the same as the previous year.

This program plays a key role in supporting Australia’s economy by helping to fill skill gaps and grow the working age population.

This steady approach is a good sign for employers and businesses who are facing skills shortages and benefits for Australian citizens wishing to reunite with their loved ones. A well-managed migration program is essential to sustaining Australia’s economic growth and strengthening its workforce and communities.

Here is the breakdown of the 185,000 places will be allocated:

Skill Stream – 132,000 places (71%)

This stream focuses on bringing in skilled workers to strengthen the economy and fill job shortages – especially in regional areas.

 

 

Family Stream – 52,500 places (28%)

Mostly made up of Partner visas, this stream helps Australians reunite with loved ones from overseas and supports pathways to citizenship.

Special Eligibility Stream – 300 places

A small number of visas are reserved for special cases, such as permanent residents returning to Australia after being overseas.

Migration Program planning levels by financial year
Visa Stream Visa Category 2023–24 Planning levels 2024–25 Planning levels 2025–26 Planning levels
Skill Employer Sponsored 36,825 44,000 44,000
Skilled Independent 30,375 16,900 16,900
Regional 32,300 33,000 33,000
State/Territory Nominated 30,400 33,000 33,000
Business Innovation & Investment 1,900 1,000 1,000
Talent and Innovation1 – – 4,300
Global Talent1 (Independent) 5,000 4,000 –
Distinguished Talent1 300 300 –
Skill Total 137,100 132,200 132,200
Family Partner2 40,500 40,500 40,500
Parent 8,500 8,500 8,500
Child2 3,000 3,000 3,000
Other Family 500 500 500
Family Total 52,500 52,500 52,500
Special Eligibility 400 300 300
Total Migration Program 190,000 185,000 185,000