Insights
If you plan to meet the Subclass 485 two-year study requirement with multiple courses, the new course must start in the year the previous course ends or the following year. Australian study points still allow non-consecutive courses; the requirements differ between these two purposes.
Read More →
A student visa source-of-funds request requires more than a sufficient balance. Show that the funds belong to you or your sponsor and have a lawful, long-term source, with 6–12 months of statements for the relevant account. Your sponsor’s ongoing income is also considered.
Read More →
Australian student visa holders must remain enrolled at the same or a higher course level and maintain progress and attendance. Breaching condition 8202 may lead to cancellation: onshore, there is generally a notice seeking an explanation first; offshore, cancellation may occur without warning.
Read More →
The Subclass 485 application fee was AUD 4,600 in March 2026 and rose to AUD 5,750 from 1 July 2026. The fees listed for March 2026 also distinguish first and second visas and applications by Pacific island passport holders.
Read More →
Planning a 2026 Australian Subclass 189 application? Early childhood teachers have fewer than 200 places left and nurses have 5,800+. Score estimates remain forecasts: allocations are theoretical ceilings, with actual invitations also affected by each round’s overall allocation and the applicant pool.
Read More →
Western Australia's February 2026 state nomination invitations focused on four priority sectors, mainly construction and engineering occupations. The lowest observed early childhood teacher score was 75+5, with higher-scoring applicants also invited. The full official report had not been released by 27 February 2026.
Read More →
In January 2026, Subclass 190 and 491 visa grants increased steadily, while backlogs across all three skilled visa categories fell further. Monthly Subclass 189 grants rose above 1,800, with applications from the August and November 2025 invitation rounds now being processed.
Read More →
Waiting for a partner or child visa? By the end of December 2025, the partner visa backlog was nearly 250,000 and the child visa backlog nearly 8,000. Permanent partner visa totals include temporary applications, a distinction to keep in mind when comparing the two stages.
Read More →
Age, English, partner qualifications and work experience are key areas proposed for Australia’s EOI points reform. MIA proposes maximum age points from 25 to 35, then a one-point reduction for each additional year of age. These remain reform proposals.
Read More →
Keep track of your visa expiry while studying in Australia or waiting for a skilled migration invitation. Leaving more than 28 days after expiry triggers a 3-year entry ban, and an overstay record significantly affects your chances of obtaining a future visitor or student visa.
Read More →Newstars has branded offices around the world — find a professional consultant near you.
Get in touch for a free consultation — we'll help you analyse your situation from every angle.
Book Consultation
