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Home Affairs announcements, processing-time changes, policy updates.
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- Home Affairs48248518919023 July 2026
Visa processing times - Quarterly report
Home Affairs publishes quarterly reports showing how long it takes to process Migration and Temporary visas. These reports help applicants understand current processing trends and timeframes.
Read more - Home Affairs60050021 July 2026
ABF Border Security Update - Drug and Contraband Detections Increase
The Australian Border Force reported significant increases in illegal drug seizures and child exploitation material detections at the border. This affects all travellers entering Australia.
Read more - Home Affairs48248518919021 July 2026
Minister Responds to Opposition Immigration Policy Criticism
No new visa policy changes announced. Minister defends current government immigration settings focusing on skills and standards.
Read more - Home Affairs48248518919021 July 2026
Australia's Net Overseas Migration Falls to 301,000
Net Overseas Migration has dropped 45% from 2023 peaks, with temporary visa holder and international student numbers continuing to decline. This may affect future visa planning.
Read more - Home Affairs60021 July 2026
Travel restrictions for Visitor visa holders with Iranian passports
An Arrival Control Determination has temporarily suspended Visitor (Subclass 600) visas linked to Iranian passports for 6 months from 26 March 2026. People outside Australia affected by this restriction cannot travel to Australia on their current visa.
Read more - Home Affairs60050018919020 July 2026
Digital passenger cards replace paper forms at Australian airports
Australia is rolling out digital passenger cards to replace paper arrival forms. All travellers arriving at Australian airports and seaports will eventually use the new system.
Read more - Home Affairs48248518919020 July 2026
Stronger rules for migration agents coming April 2026
New laws will require migration agents to complete more training and follow stricter ethical standards. This affects anyone using a registered migration agent for visa applications.
Read more - Home Affairs60020 July 2026
Temporary restriction on Iranian Visitor visa holders entering Australia
From 26 March 2026, Iranian passport holders with Visitor (Subclass 600) visas outside Australia are temporarily restricted from travelling to Australia for 6 months. Some exemptions apply.
Read more - Home Affairs1891904914821 July 2026
Visa fees just rose about 25% (1 July 2026)
Home Affairs raised most Australian visa application charges on 1 July 2026, well above the usual annual CPI adjustment. Skilled, partner, student, and graduate visas are all affected. Salary thresholds for 482 nominations also increased.
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