Introduction
Australia Government has confirmed the total permanent Migration Program for the 2025–26 financial year, keeping the quota at 185,000 places. This quota is the same level as the previous year, indicating policy stability amid ongoing national discussions about skills shortages, infrastructure strain, and housing supply.
Quota breakdown by Visa Stream
Skill Visas: To address the labour shortage, the Australian Government remains focused predominantly on the Skill stream. Out of 185,000 migration places in 2025-2026, approximately 132,200 places will be allocated for skill streams, accounting for up to ~71%.
Employer-Sponsored visas: With 44,000 places, employer sponsored visas will continue as one of the priorities in the immigration program because this pathway will immediately help Australian businesses fill their necessary skill gaps.
Skilled Independent visas: Will be allocated 16,900 places, offering flexibility for highly skilled migrants without employer or state sponsorship.
Regional: 33,000 places will be provided to regional areas, encouraging migration beyond major cities.
State/Territory Nominated: 33,000 places will be also allocated for 190 visas to address local labour needs.
Business Innovation & Investment (now National Innovation Visa): 1,000 places, with separate allocations of 4,300 for Talent & Innovation under new structures
The Family Stream is allocated 52,500 places (~28% of the program), including:
Partner Visas: ~40,500 places
Parent Visas: ~8,500 places
Child Visas: ~3,000 places
Other Family: ~500 places
The Special Eligibility Stream, comprising unique or exceptional cases (e.g. returning residents), is allotted 300 places
Why keeps the Cap at 185,000?
Policy Stability & Economic Confidence
The decision to keep the migration cap unchanged highlights the need of the migrants for Australian economy. The migration program will help employers addressing skill shortages, and it will also support families who are awaiting reunification.
Balance with Infrastructure & Housing
The government, after consultation with states and territories, emphasised that keeping the program stable provides predictability for labour market planning, while avoiding additional strain on housing and infrastructure.
Conclusion
Maintaining a migration program quota of 185,000 means there will be opportunities for applicants to be invited in 2025-2026. Wishing to explore which visa option will suit you best? Contact our Migration Agent on 07 3003 1899 or hello@solmigration.com for more information.