Important Changes to the Training Visa (Subclass 407) – March 2026
Australia has announced changes affecting the Training visa (subclass 407), including who can sponsor and how the training program is nominated and approved. If you are considering a Training visa (as an applicant or sponsor), understanding the updated process can help you plan your next steps and reduce the risk of avoidable processing issues.
What Has Changed?
From 11 March 2026, the Training visa framework includes stricter sponsorship and nomination steps. At a high level:
The sponsor must be an approved Temporary Activities Sponsor for the relevant 407 visa application to be valid.
Unless sponsored by a Commonwealth Agency, the associated nomination must have been approved and still valid at the time the visa application is lodged for the visa application to be valid.
Be reminded that the applicant will not receive an associated Bridging visa by lodging an invalid subclass 407 visa application.
What This Means for You
Overall, these changes are intended to reduce “permanent temporariness” by requiring sponsorship approval and, where applicable, nomination approval before a valid subclass 407 visa application can be lodged.
Given these preliminary approval stages can take considerable time, applicants and sponsors should plan well in advance. Otherwise, if the required approvals are still pending at the time of lodgement, the visa application may not be valid, and onshore applicants may need to consider alternative visa arrangements or leaving Australia while they wait.
If you are considering a subclass 407 application, it is important to check early whether the sponsor approval and, where applicable, nomination approval are already in place before lodging, and to seek advice if the timing or requirements are unclear.
How We Can Help
We can assist with strategic guidance on the subclass 407 process, including assessing sponsor eligibility, reviewing training program documentation and nomination requirements, preparing Training visa applications and supporting submissions (if required).
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Important Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This page is general information only and is not legal advice (or migration assistance). It may not reflect your circumstances.
Reading this page or contacting us does not automatically create a lawyer–client relationship. If you need advice, please contact us to arrange a consultation.
Migration Pathways for Child Care Sector Professionals
Australia’s early childhood sector is experiencing unprecedented demand. For qualified professionals, this creates a strong landscape of opportunities for permanent residency and career growth. Whether you are a university-qualified teacher, centre managers with management experience or a vocational child care worker, understanding the specific visa criteria is the first step toward your Australian future.
At Lumin Migration, we specialise in navigating the complex intersection of skills assessments, state nominations, and relevant visa subclasses for the child care sector.
1. Early Childhood Teachers (ECT) (ANZSCO 241111)
This occupation is generally for professionals with a University Bachelor’s degree (or higher). ECTs are on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) & Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), opening access to a wide range of visa options.
Qualification requirement: commensurate with a Bachelor degree or higher qualification. As of now, this may be satisfied with a graduate diploma relevant to ECT for migration purposes.
Common Visa Options & Main Criteria
Skilled Independent (Subclass 189):
A positive Skills Assessment from ACECQA.
Points: Must score at least 65 points, though realistically 85 or even higher points are often required for an invitation.
Benefit: Direct permanent residency without employer sponsorship or state nomination.
State Nominated (Subclass 491 & 190):
Requirements: A positive Skills Assessment from ACECQA.
Nomination: Must secure a nomination from an Australian state or territory (subject to their specific lists and criteria).
Benefit: The 190 is a permanent visa; the 491 is a 5-year provisional visa leading to PR allowing the holder to live and work in Regional Australia.
Skills in Demand Visa 482
Experience requirement: One year of full-time Post-Qualification Experience (PQE). For experience gained in Australia, this must generally be completed following formal registration.
Registration requirement: The applicant is generally need to be registered as ECT with the relevant regulation bodies within 3 months after visa approval
Need sponsorship from eligible employer, with pathway to Permanent Residency via 186 visa after 2 years on 482
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186):
Direct Entry (DE): Requires a positive Skills Assessment from ACECQA + 3 years of full-time post-qualification experience.
Transition Stream (TRT): Available after working for your sponsor for 2 years on the 482 visa.
Critical Industry Alert
The "Graduate Diploma" Risk: Be cautious if you seek to satisfy the qualification requirements through a Graduate Diploma. Regulatory bodies in NSW and South Australia have recently refused initial teacher registration for applicants relying on this qualification. Additionally, major employers like Goodstart have refused to hire candidates with this qualification alone, potentially making it an industry standard barrier.
While this is unlikely to affect its skills assessment eligibility and pathway under subclass 189/190 visa, it will negatively impact the points you can claim under employment experience, your eligibility under Employer Sponsored visa pathways, and many State & Territory nomination visas which require work experience in the nominated occupation.
2. Child Care Workers (ANZSCO 421111)
This pathway is typically for professionals with Vocational qualifications. The occupation has recently been added to the CSOL list which opens its pathway to SID 482 visa & pathway to PR. Employers should keep in mind about the salary related requirements.
Qualification: Certificate III / IV in relevant field, or at least three years of relevant experience.
Visa Options & Main Criteria
Skills in Demand (Subclass 482):
Experience: Requires 1 year of post-qualification work experience.
Salary Threshold: Your guaranteed annual earnings AND that of any equivalent Australian employee must be at least $76,515 (TSMIT) + Superannuation.
Benefit: A temporary work visa with a pathway to PR, subject to employer sponsorship
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186):
Direct Entry (DE): Requires a positive Skills Assessment from ACECQA + 3 years of full-time post-qualification experience.
Transition Stream (TRT): Available after working for your sponsor for 2 years on the 482 visa.
Red flag: The catch is the salary requirements under 482 & 186 visas, which mandate that both the nominated salary for the position and the Annual Market Salary Rate must exceed $76,515 (TSMIT, subject to annual indexation). This often means the occupation is usually only available through Labour Agreements with salary concessions, unless the sponsoring employer offers the nominated salary to above TSMIT and evidence the market salary rate to surpass the same.
3. Child Care Group Leaders (ANZSCO 421111 - Specialization)
This specific role—often defined as a worker with higher qualifications (Diploma/Advanced Diploma) leading a room or group—opens regional visa option.
Qualification: Diploma or higher qualification in the relevant field
Visa Options & Main Criteria
Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494):
Experience: Requires 3 years of full-time post-qualification experience.
Skills Assessment: Mandatory positive assessment from ACECQA as a "Group Leader".
Location of position: must be in regional Australia
Benefit: A regional provisional visa valid for 5 years, with a pathway to PR (Subclass 191) after 3 years.
4. Child Care Centre Manager (ANZSCO 134111)
This pathway is for the Centre Directors and Coordinators who manage the physical and human resources of a service. Unlike Early Childhood Teachers (who focus on pedagogy) or Workers (who focus on care), this role requires substantial amount of management responsibilities.
Qualification requirements: Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field
Visa Options & Main Criteria
Skilled Independent (Subclass 189):
Requires a positive Skills Assessment from ACECQA + at least 65 points in GSM EOI. Realistically, EOIs with 75+ points may get an invitation though it fluctuates from time to time.
Benefit: Direct permanent residency. No sponsor or state nomination required.
General Skilled Migration (190 & 491):
Requirements: A positive Skills Assessment from ACECQA + State Nomination.
Note: Availability depends heavily on state shortage lists.
Employer Sponsored Program:
Subclass 482: Requires 1 years of relevant PQE work experience.
Subclass 186
Temporary Residence Transition: Requires sponsored employment experience whilst holding a 482 visa for 2 years.
Direct Entry: Requires a positive Skills Assessment + 3 years of full-time relevant experience.
Critical Assessment Criteria (ACECQA)
The skills assessment for Centre Managers is strict. You must hold an approved Diploma (or higher) and provide evidence of 3 years of full-time experience specifically as a Centre Manager after obtaining your qualification.
How We Can Help
The rules for educators change frequently. Lumin Migration can assist you with:
Pre-assessing your qualifications against ACECQA standards.
Checking your degree against the NQF approved list.
Advising you and your employers as to eligibilities under Employer Sponsorship Visa Program.
Strategizing your Points Test score to maximize your invitation chances.
Lodging your Visa 189, 190, 491, or Employer Sponsored applications, if eligible.
[Contact us today to get started]
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute migration or legal advice. Immigration regulations and policies are complex and subject to frequent changes, please arrange a consultation with us for tailored legal advice.
Australia's Visa Pathways for Business Owners
Following the closure of the Business Innovation and Investment (Subclass 188) visa program, many entrepreneurs are exploring new routes to live and work in Australia. The good news is that viable pathways still exist, primarily through state and territory nominated visas.
This guide seeks to provide an overview of the main visa options for small business owners, including the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Subclass 491) and, in some cases, the Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190). We also address the new National Innovation Visa (NIV) and the complexities of the 'self-sponsorship' route.
State and Territory Nominated Small Business Owner Pathways
Several Australian states and territories offer specific nomination streams for business owners and entrepreneurs. These generally lead to a Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, which is a five-year visa allowing the visa holder to live and work in a designated regional area, with a pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 191) after three years, provided relevant requirements are met. Some states may offer a pathway to the permanent Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa for high-calibre business owners.
Below is a breakdown based on available information, which applicants should always verify with official state migration websites as criteria can change frequently.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Business in the Capital
The ACT offers pathways for business owners under both the Subclass 491 and Subclass 190 visas, managed through the points-based 'Canberra Matrix'.
Key Requirements:
Business Operation: You must be residing in Canberra and actively operating your business for a minimum period (e.g., 6 months for the 491 visa, 12 months for the 190).
Majority Ownership: You must own at least 51% of the ACT-based business.
Personal Income: You must draw a minimum personal salary from the business.
Job Creation: You must employ at least one eligible Australian citizen/permanent resident.
Ineligible Businesses: Certain business types, such as sub-tenancies, ride-sharing, or delivery services, are not eligible.
Tasmania: The Tasmanian Business Operator Pathway (Subclass 491)
Tasmania offers a dedicated pathway for individuals who have established and are operating a business in the state.
Key Requirements for the Tasmanian Business Operator Pathway (Subclass 491):
Established Business: You must have been operating your business in Tasmania for at least 12 months.
Sufficient Income: The business must generate a personal taxable income for you that meets a minimum threshold (benchmarked against the TSMIT).
Business Plan: A well-researched business plan is essential to demonstrate your understanding of the local market.
Fair Work Compliance: You must show you understand your obligations as an employer.
Factors like significant job creation, substantial capital investment, and holding a skills assessment relevant to your business can strengthen your application.
Queensland: Small Business Owners in Regional Queensland (Subclass 491)
Migration Queensland provides pathways for entrepreneurs operating a business in a regional area of the state.
Option 1: Purchasing an Existing Business
Minimum Investment: Purchase an eligible, pre-existing regional business for at least $100,000.
Prior Operation: You must operate the business for at least six months before seeking nomination.
Job Creation: You must employ at least one Australian resident.
Option 2: Starting a New Business
Extended Operation: Your start-up must have been running for at least two years.
Financial Performance: The business must meet significant annual turnover and profitability requirements.
Job Creation: You must employ at least one Australian resident.
Important notes: All states have strict rules regarding business types, locations, and financing arrangements. Passive investments and home-based businesses are generally not accepted.
State Nomination for the National Innovation Visa (NIV)
A significant new pathway is the National Innovation Visa (NIV), a permanent visa for individuals with a record of exceptional and outstanding achievement. Leading states like New South Wales and South Australia offer nomination pathways for high-calibre entrepreneurs and investors.
While specific requirements differ by state, successful applicants must generally meet a high standard. The key is to demonstrate how your expertise, venture, or capital will deliver a significant, tangible benefit to the nominating state's economy.
The Entrepreneur Pathway
This pathway is for visionary founders with a history of success. States are looking for individuals who will build the next generation of high-growth Australian companies. General requirements include:
An Exceptional Track Record: You must provide evidence of an internationally recognised history of outstanding success, such as founding and scaling businesses, achieving high revenue growth, or securing significant capital investment.
A High-Impact Business Concept: A comprehensive business plan for an innovative, scalable venture is required. It must detail a unique product, service, or business model with the potential for significant economic benefit and job creation in the nominating state.
Commitment to the Local Ecosystem: You must demonstrate a genuine intention to establish and operate your primary business within the nominating state, engaging with local partnerships and contributing to priority industry sectors.
The Innovative Investor Pathway
This pathway is designed for strategic investors who bring both capital and expertise. It is not a passive investment visa. General requirements include:
A History of Strategic Investment: Applicants must have a proven track record of making successful investments, particularly in innovative, early-stage companies or a related field.
Significant Investment Capital: You must propose a substantial investment into the nominating state's innovation ecosystem. Eligible targets often include local start-ups, early-stage businesses, or approved venture capital funds.
Active Contribution (More Than Money): States are looking for investors who will play an active role in nurturing the companies they invest in, for example, by providing mentorship, strategic advice, or serving as a board member.
Note: As state/territory-specific requirements are highly detailed and subject to change, a tailored assessment of your profile against the latest criteria is essential for a successful application.
A Note on 'Self-Sponsorship' (Skills in Demand Visa)
Sponsoring yourself through your own business on a Skills in Demand (Subclass 482) visa is complex and carries significant risk. The Department of Home Affairs scrutinises these applications to ensure the nominated position is genuinely needed by the business and not simply created to secure a visa.
Decision-makers will closely examine:
Whether the position is essential for the business's operations.
If the role and salary are consistent with the nature and scale of the business.
Whether the business was established primarily to facilitate the owner's migration.
The "Genuine Position" requirement is a high bar to clear, and applications from new businesses with few or no other employees face intense scrutiny.
How We Can Help You Navigate the Process
The criteria for Australia's business owner visa pathways are intricate and change frequently. The information above is a general guide, but your success depends on a carefully prepared application tailored to your specific circumstances.
Our team of experienced immigration lawyers can provide a detailed assessment of your eligibility, help you navigate the correct state nomination requirements, and ensure your application is positioned for the best possible outcome.
Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your entrepreneurial future in Australia.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute migration or legal advice.