02Oct

Australia migration program 185,000 PR places skilled and family visa distribution

Updated on: 07/03/2026

Immigration

Post By: admin

Australia Migration Program | 185,000 PR Places for Immigrants

Australia Migration Program: 185,000 Permanent Residency Places to Support Skills, Economy & Regional Growth

Australia has officially confirmed that the 2025–26 Migration Program will continue to offer 185,000 Permanent Residency (PR) places, maintaining the same ceiling as 2024–25.
According to updates from the Australian Department of Home Affairs and industry sources, the structure and priorities of the program have been refined to ensure a stronger focus on skills, workforce needs, and regional development.

Breakdown of the 2025–26 Migration Program (Total: 185,000 Places)

Skill Stream – 132,200 Places (71%)

The Skill stream provides the majority of PR places, helping Australia fill critical labour shortages across key sectors. It supports employer-sponsored, regional, state-nominated, and independent skilled pathways. The focus is on bringing in qualified professionals who can contribute immediately to the economy.

Family Stream – 52,500 Places (28%)

The Family stream prioritises Partner visas and supports the reunification of families of Australian citizens and permanent residents. It includes Partner, Parent, Child, and Other Family categories, ensuring stable and cohesive community growth.

National Innovation Visa – 4,300 Places

This newly introduced visa replaces the Global Talent and Distinguished Talent visas. It targets exceptional innovators, researchers, founders, and high-performing professionals who can drive technological and economic advancement in Australia.

Special Eligibility – 300 Places

Reserved for exceptional cases, this stream covers returning permanent residents and individuals who require ministerial discretion. It maintains flexibility in the program for compassionate or special circumstances.

Looking to migrate to Australia? LEAMSS is here to guide you through every requirement and step.

Migration Program Planning Levels

Visa Stream / Category

2023–24

2024–25

2025–26

Skill Stream

Employer Sponsored	36,825	44,000	44,000
Skilled Independent	30,375	16,900	16,900
Regional	32,300	33,000	33,000
State/Territory Nominated	30,400	33,000	33,000
Business Innovation & Investment (BIIP)	1,900	1,000	1,000
Talent & Innovation	-	-	4,300
Global Talent (Independent)	5,000	4,000	-
Distinguished Talent	300	300	-
Skill Total	1,37,100	1,32,200	1,32,200

Family Stream

Partner	40,500	40,500	40,500
Parent	8,500	8,500	8,500
Child	3,000	3,000	3,000
Other Family	500	500	500
Family Total	52,500	52,500	52,500
Special Eligibility	400	300	300
TOTAL MIGRATION PROGRAM	1,90,000	1,85,000	1,85,000

Also, read Australia Increases Student CAP for 2026

Conclusion

Australia’s 2025–26 Migration Program continues to prioritise skilled professionals, regional growth, and family reunification, maintaining a stable intake of 185,000 PR places. With clear allocations and a renewed focus on innovation through the National Innovation Visa, Australia remains one of the world’s most strategic and opportunity-rich destinations for migrants. If you’re planning to move to Australia, now is the time to prepare your documents, identify the right visa pathway, and start your PR journey with expert guidance from LEAMSS.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q.1 How many PR places does Australia offer in 2025–26?

Australia offers 185,000 permanent residency places in the 2025–26 Migration Program, maintaining the same cap as the previous year.

Q.2 Which stream has the most PR places?

The Skill Stream leads with 132,200 places (71%), covering employer-sponsored, independent, regional, and state-nominated pathways.

Q.3 Can I apply for Australian PR without a job offer?

Yes. The Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) lets you apply based on your points score and skills assessment - no employer or sponsor needed.

Q.4 What is the new National Innovation Visa?

It's a new visa for 2025–26 replacing the Global Talent and Distinguished Talent visas. It targets exceptional founders, researchers, and professionals, with 4,300 places allocated.

Q.5 How do I start my Australian PR journey?

Start by identifying your eligible visa stream, get a skills assessment, and prepare documents like English test scores and work experience proof. Consulting a registered migration agent improves your chances significantly.

Back to Home

Let's Connect

Have a Thought?

We Make Consultation Simple

Office locations