Skilled Visa application processing times
Visa Processing Times and Factors Affecting Them
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) | State/Territory Government Nominated Regional | 9 months | 18 months |
491 Skilled Work Regional (provisional) | 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 Note: Visa processing times were significantly delayed due to the impacts of COVID-19 and international border restrictions and closures. As of 21 February 2022, with Australia’s border reopening to all fully vaccinated travelers, visa processing times are gradually decreasing as processing resumes.
Factors Affecting Visa Processing Times:
- Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, so processing times can vary due to specific individual circumstances, such as:
- Whether you have submitted a complete application with all necessary supporting documents.
- The speed at which you respond to requests for additional information.
- The time required to conduct checks on the supporting information provided.
- The duration it takes to receive additional information from external agencies, particularly related to health, character, and national security requirements.
- For permanent migration visa applications, the availability of places in the migration program.
- For citizenship applications, the time it takes to attend a Citizenship Ceremony or receive a Citizenship Certificate.