A new Migratio briefing clarifies which of the 17 September migration-reform measures already apply to existing visa holders and lodged applications. Key take-aways: student-visa changes apply only to applications lodged on or after 2 October 2026; existing Student-visa holders cannot add dependants; and no transitional instruments yet exist for the proposed working-holiday ballot or Temporary Graduate family limits. The guide urges employers to distinguish between rule-in-force (student lodgement bar) and announced-but-unlegislated proposals (points-test overhaul, visitor-visa ‘No Further Stay’ condition). Without published instruments, “grandfathering” assumptions remain risky. Mobility managers should audit active cases to ensure lodgement dates fall under the intended rule set and brief applicants on the possibility of retroactive instruments. This is especially pressing for working-holidaymakers eyeing second-year extensions and for families on bridging visas.
Source: Migratio
