The timeframe for processing skilled visas is highly fluid depending on the number of applications in a queue, and the resources available to process. Above that however is a fixed order of processing depending on occupation being nominated. In addition a new type of priority order has been introduced that differentiates between onshore and offshore applicants.
The list below shows the new order of priority in the latest Ministerial Direction taking effect from 25 July 2026.
- Applicant is onshore and where the nominated occupation relates to Australia’s law enforcement or defence interests.
- Applicant is offshore and where the nominated occupation relates to Australia’s law enforcement or defence interests.
- Applicant is onshore and where the nominated occupation relates to healthcare, teaching and construction occupations.
- All other onshore applications.
- All other offshore applications.
This new order replaces the previous Ministerial Direction which prioritised:
- Nomination and employer sponsored visa applications that had an occupation to be carried out in a designated regional area.
- Nomination and employer sponsored visa applications in healthcare and teaching occupations.
- Nomination and employer sponsored visa applications by accredited sponsors regardless of location.
While this remains a positive order of priority for employers in the healthcare and teaching sectors, and new benefits for employers in the law enforcement, defence and construction sectors; it is not good news for employers in regional Australia that will no longer be distinguished and prioritised in any circumstances except for the nationally prioritised sectors where they will be prioritised in same order as other employers regardless of location.
Accredited Sponsor employers also lose out in their loss of priority processing status. While other benefits of Accredited Sponsor status remain intact it has been the priority processing advantage that has arguably been the reason for most eligible sponsors to apply for this status.
A significant difference in the latest direction, is its new distinction between applicants who are in Australia, and applicants who are outside Australia. In some circumstances it may be viable to consider bringing an applicant onshore on a shorter-term temporary work visa that is not covered by the new Ministerial Direction. This may avoid an extended period before your nominated worker can commence in the role (pending the processing of the longer-term work visa effected by the new Ministerial Direction).
If you have a labour shortage and an appropriate nominee located offshore, contact us to discuss potential options.
* Please note that the information provided herein is of a general nature only and is not individual legal advice. Contact Us to assess your circumstances.