Family visa processing priorities updated under new ministerial direction

Home Affairs processes family visa applications according to ministerial directions that set out which applications are handled first. From 25 July 2026, a new Ministerial Direction 117 replaced the previous Direction 102. The new direction gives highest priority to family visa applications where the primary applicant was in Australia when they applied and can be granted while they remain in Australia. Applications where the primary applicant is outside Australia, or must be outside Australia when the visa is granted, receive lower priority. Within these categories, applications are processed in this order: those subject to ministerial intervention, partner or dependent child applications, orphan relative applications, contributory parent applications, carer applications, and parent or aged parent applications. In limited circumstances involving special compassion or compelling reasons, applications may be prioritised outside this order. Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances. For current processing timeframes, applicants should check Home Affairs' Processing times guide.