Skilled Visa application processing times

Visa Type Stream (if available) 75% of applications processed in 90% of applications processed in
189 Skilled – Independent Points-tested 24 months 35 months
189 Skilled – Independent New Zealand 18 months 24 months
190 Skilled – Nominated 9 months 19 months
476 Skilled – Recognised Graduate 35 months 35 months
485 Temporary Graduate Graduate Work 11 months 17 months
485 Temporary Graduate Post-Study Work 11 months 12 months
491 Skilled Work Regional (provisional) visa State/Territory Government Nominated Regional 9 months 18 months
491 Skilled Work Regional (provisional) visa Family Sponsored Regional 7 months 14 months
858 Distinguished Talent Global Talent Pathway 80 days 5 months
858 Distinguished Talent Distinguished Talent 23 months 24 months
887 Skilled – Regional     21 months 22 months
Important

Visa processing times were significantly delayed due to the impacts of COVID-19 and international border restrictions and closures. As a result of Australia’s border reopening to all fully vaccinated travellers from 21 February 2022, the visa processing times are now slowly reducing as processing has resumed.

Circumstances that affect processing times

Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, and actual processing times can vary due to individual circumstances including:

  • whether you have lodged a complete application, including all necessary supporting documents
  • how promptly you respond to any requests for additional information
  • how long it takes to perform required checks on the supporting information provided
  • how long it takes to receive additional information from external agencies, particularly in relation to health, character, and national security requirements
  • for permanent migration visa applications, how many places are available in the migration programme
  • for citizenship applications, the time taken to attend a Citizenship Ceremony or receive a Citizenship Certificate.

Book a meeting today for a commitment free briefing with our Registered Migration Agents in Melbourne to find more about your visa options.