If you are waiting on a visa decision and wondering why it feels slow, there is a good chance your application is going through migration integrity checks. These checks can happen at any stage of the process and are a normal part of Australia’s efforts to protect the visa system.  While they can add time, they are not always a sign of a problem. Understanding why these checks exist and what happens during them can help reduce stress and give applicants more confidence in the

For skilled migrants, state and territory nominations play a major role in securing a Subclass 190 or 491 visa. But many applicants are confused by the differences between each state’s criteria.  Some states focus on people already living and working locally. Others prioritise occupations in shortage. Some want high points, while others value regional commitment or industry experience.  This guide explains, in simple terms, what these criteria actually mean and how they affec

Australia’s skilled migration program offers several pathways for workers who want to build a future in the country. But choosing the right visa can feel confusing, especially when you are deciding between the Subclass 189, 190 and 491 visas.  Each option has different requirements, benefits and obligations. Understanding these differences in simple terms helps you choose the visa that best matches your skills, lifestyle and long term goals.    What is the difference between

\uyh Holiday reunions are some of the most meaningful moments for families, especially when parents, partners or loved ones travel from overseas to spend Christmas or New Year together. But because the holiday season is the busiest travel period of the year, visitor visa applications often move more slowly and travel planning becomes more stressful.  Understanding how and when to apply makes the process easier and helps ensure your loved ones arrive in time for the celebratio

If you are an international student planning to study in Australia, there is one requirement you cannot skip. Overseas Student Health Cover, or OSHC, is mandatory for your student visa. It protects you from high medical costs while you live and study in Australia, and your visa will not be approved without it.  From 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2028, a new OSHC Deed outlines exactly what insurance providers must cover and what students are entitled to. Understanding these rules hel

Parent visas are one of the most meaningful pathways for families who want to reunite in Australia. But they also come with some of the longest waiting periods in the migration system. Many families are surprised when they first hear how the parent visa queue works and why it moves slowly.  Understanding the queue gives you a clearer picture of what to expect and helps you prepare wisely while waiting. With the right planning, the long timeline becomes easier to manage.    Ho

A partner visa is one of the most meaningful applications a couple will ever prepare. It reflects your relationship, your shared plans and the life you hope to build in Australia. Because of this, immigration officers must see clear, consistent evidence that your relationship is genuine and continuing.  Many couples are surprised to learn that genuine relationships can still face delays when the evidence is unclear or incomplete. This guide explains the most common mistakes c

One of the most common questions applicants ask is, “Why is my visa taking so long?” Visa processing times can move faster or slower depending on factors that are not always visible to applicants. Understanding these factors helps you plan your application better and reduce the stress that comes with uncertainty.  This guide explains why processing times change and how early preparation can make a big difference in your overall experience.  Why do visa processing times change

Every year, the Australian Government sets how many skilled migrants each state and territory can nominate. These numbers form part of the permanent Migration Program and directly influence how quickly invitations are issued for visas like the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491.  The 2025–26 allocations are now confirmed, and they give skilled migrants an early look at which states may be more active this program year. Understanding these numbers helps you plan your next steps wit

Australia welcomes thousands of migrants each year, but the Migration Program is not a single pathway. It is a structured system with yearly limits, clear priorities and specific categories that shape how visas are processed.  For applicants, understanding this structure helps explain why some visas move quickly while others take time. It also helps families and skilled workers plan ahead with realistic expectations.  This guide breaks down the Migration Program in plain Engl

Why Visa Fees Matter for Holiday Planning   Visa fees are just one part of the holiday travel budget, but they influence the timeline and preparation for the whole trip. When fees change, families often need time to adjust their plans, gather funds, and make sure their loved ones apply before the holiday rush begins.  Since many families apply around the same time each year, starting early helps you secure a smoother and more predictable process.    Understanding the Fee Incr

Clarity and Consistency Matter More Than Ever   Immigration does not rely on a single document to understand a relationship. They look at patterns, timelines, shared responsibilities, and how both partners communicate their story. Even genuine couples experience delays when their documents tell different versions of events or leave unanswered questions.  Taking time to make sure your documents match your relationship timeline can make a noticeable difference in how smoothly y

Understanding the Purpose of the Assurance of Support   The Assurance of Support exists to ensure that parents migrating to Australia have stable financial backing when they arrive. It protects both the parent and the Australian community by confirming that sponsors can assist with living costs and settlement needs.  This commitment is not just a formality. It reflects the sponsor’s readiness to provide support during the early stages of their parent’s migration journey.    K

The Holiday Rush Is Real   Every year, immigration offices receive a surge of visitor visa applications from October to December. Families around the world hope to spend Christmas or New Year together in Australia, which leads to higher demand and longer queues. Even the most straightforward applications can slow down simply because more people are applying at the same time.  Starting early means your application enters the system before the seasonal bottleneck. It gives immi

What State and Territory Nomination Allocations Do   Australia provides each state and territory with a set number of nominations each year. These nominations allow jurisdictions to invite skilled migrants who meet their unique criteria and can contribute to local economic and demographic needs.  Nomination allocations support two key program streams:  Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190  Skilled Work Regional Visa Subclass 491  States and territories use their own assessment

If you’re an international student planning to study in Australia, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)  is not optional. The latest OSHC Deed (effective 1 July 2025–30 June 2028)  outlines exactly what insurers must cover, your entitlements, and your rights as a student.  Here’s a quick, easy-to-read summary of what the Deed means for you.    What OSHC Must Cover  Under the Deed, OSHC insurers are required to provide nationwide cover for students and their dependants. Base O

The Australian Department of Home Affairs has released a Student Visa Integrity Alert for education providers, highlighting emerging risks in the international student visa space. These issues affect both students and institutions, and the Department is urging providers to take stronger steps to protect the integrity of the Student Visa Program.  Need help understanding how these updates may affect your plans? Reach out to the Legacy Migration team and we’ll guide you through

The Australian Department of Home Affairs has updated the processing priorities for Student Visa (Subclass 500) applications. Understanding these priorities can help students plan their applications and know what to expect.  Need help checking your visa priority or understanding your processing time? Reach out to Legacy and our team will guide you.  Applications Lodged by Students Inside Australia   Student visa applications lodged inside Australia are generally assessed in t

What are the health and character requirements for an Australian tourist visa?   Tourist visa applicants must meet Australia’s health and character standards to ensure they do not pose public health or security risks. This may involve a medical check, police clearance, and proof of good conduct. Each case is reviewed individually based on travel history and personal circumstances.  Tourist Visa Health and Character Rules: Tips for Filipino Applicants   Why These Requirements

What are the 2025 changes to Australia’s visitor visa?   In 2025, Australia introduced updated visitor visa rules that strengthen identity checks, tighten sponsorship requirements, and improve processing for low-risk travellers. The goal is to make travel more secure and efficient while ensuring sponsors meet clear financial and character standards.  What the 2025 Visitor Visa Changes Mean for Filipino Tourists and Their Sponsors   1. A Year of Travel Adjustments   Visitor vi