Moving to Australia is no longer just a dream for Indian professionals; it is a strategic career move. However, the migration landscape has shifted significantly this year. If you are looking to secure a work visa in Australia from India in 2026, you need to navigate the new “Skills in Demand” visa system that has replaced older frameworks.
At Bombay Migrations Australia, we specialise in helping Indian applicants transition smoothly to their new lives in Melbourne and beyond. As MARA-registered agents in Australia, we ensure your application remains compliant with the latest Department of Home Affairs 2026regulations.
What is the new Work Visa Australia from India 2026 system?
In late 2024 and throughout 2025, the Australian government restructured the migration strategy. The old Subclass 482 has been phased out in favour of the Skills in Demand Visa Australia 2026. This new system is designed to be faster, clearer, and to provide a guaranteed pathway to Permanent Residency (PR).
The Three Pathways: Specialist, Core, and Essential Skills
There are three main pathways under this new visa:
- Specialist Skills Pathway: For high-end professionals earning over $135,000 AUD (excluding trades).
- Core Skills Pathway: The most common route for the majority of skilled migrants.
- Essential Skills Pathway: Focused on labour shortages in sectors like aged care and disability support.
Why should Indians choose Melbourne, Australia, in 2026?
Melbourne remains the top destination for Indian migrants due to its thriving tech hubs, world-class healthcare, and a massive Indian community. Whether you are an IT specialist or a healthcare professional, the Victorian state nomination programs (Subclass 190 and 491) offer excellent points-tested pathways.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to apply for an Australian work visa from India without an agent (or with professional help)
While it is possible to apply on your own, the complexity of the Australia Skilled Occupation List 2026 PDF updates makes professional guidance from MARA-registered agents in Australia a more reliable option. Here is the standard roadmap:
Step 1: Check the 2026 Skilled Occupation List
Before anything else, confirm your profession is in demand. The 2026 list focuses heavily on “Green Energy” roles, Cyber Security, Healthcare, and Education.
Step 2: Complete your Skills Assessment
You must prove your qualifications match Australian standards. Depending on your field, you will deal with bodies like:
- ACS (Australian Computer Society): For ACS skills assessment for Indian IT professionals.
- Engineers Australia: For civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers.
- VETASSESS: For general professional occupations.
Step 3: Ace the English Proficiency Test
To claim the maximum points, you need a strong English result across all test components. Many applicants find the PTE score requirements for Australia PR 2026 more achievable than IELTS due to AI-based marking and quicker results. Aim for Superior English, which requires meeting the higher PTE component scores set for 2026, to secure 20 points toward your PR.
Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect
This is where you “bid” for an invitation. You will need to use the Australia PR points calculator 2026 to see where you stand. Currently, most competitive applicants from India are sitting at 85 to 95 points.
Step 5: State Nomination or Employer Sponsorship
If you are applying for the Subclass 190 visa as an Indian, you will need a nomination from a state such as Victoria. If you have a job offer, your employer can sponsor you directly under the Skills in Demand visa.
Understanding the Costs and Processing Times
Cost of Australian PR from India Including VFS Fees
For 2026, expect to budget approximately:
- Visa Application Charge (Main Applicant): ~$4,700 – $5,000 AUD.
- Skills Assessment: $500 – $1,300 AUD.
- English Test: ~$17,000 INR.
- Health Checks & PCC: ~ INR 15,000.
Australia Work Visa Processing Time from India 2026
The government has committed to faster processing. The Specialist Skills Pathway is currently being processed in as little as 7 to 10 days, while the Core Skills Pathway typically takes 3 to 6 months.
Key Requirements for Subclass 190 and 491
For those seeking permanent residency, the Subclass 190 visa requirements for Indians include living and working in a specific state for at least 2 years. If your points are lower, the Subclass 491 Regional Visa updates for 2026 offer an excellent alternative. It allows you to live in regional areas (everywhere except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane) and provides a clear 3-year bridge to PR.
Not sure if you meet the 65-point cutoff for 2026?
Don’t leave your future to guesswork. Our MARA-registered experts can calculate your exact score and identify “bonus point” opportunities you might have missed.
Why Work with Bombay Migrations Australia?
Navigating the work visa Australia from India process can be challenging. Rules change, quotas fill up, and one small mistake on your ACS skills assessment for Indian IT professionals can lead to a visa rejection.
As MARA registered agents in Australia, Bombay Migrations Australia provides:
- Get a precise evaluation of your eligibility using the Australia PR points calculator for 2026.
- Direct communication with our office in Melbourne.
- Strategic advice on which “Skills in Demand” tier fits your profile.
- Assistance with the Australia Skilled Occupation List 2026 PDF analysis.
Navigating the new 3-step PR pathway can be overwhelming. Why risk a refusal when you can get it right the first time?
Book a 1-on-1 consultation with our senior migration agents to map out your custom 2026 Australian career journey.
Practical Tips for Indian Applicants in 2026
- Don’t Wait for Higher Points: The 2026 landscape is about “Skills Match” more than just points. If your occupation is on the “Specialist” list, apply immediately.
- Focus on Regional Options: The Subclass 491 Regional Visa updates have made it much easier for Indians to migrate if they are willing to start their journey outside the major CBDs (Central Business Districts).
- NAATI CCL: If you are short by 5 points, consider taking the NAATI CCL test in your native language (Hindi, Punjabi, etc.) to boost your score.
- Stay Updated: Australian immigration policy is “live.” Check for monthly invitation round updates to adjust your strategy.
Conclusion
Securing a work visa in Australia from India in 2026 is a multi-step journey that requires precision. From the initial PTE score for Australia PR 2026 to receiving your final grant, every document counts. Whether you are aiming for a life in the vibrant streets of Melbourne or a quiet regional town, the opportunities have never been better.
Ready to start your Australian journey with experts you can trust?
Contact Bombay Migrations Australia today. Our MARA-registered agents in Australia are ready to turn your EOI (Expression of Interest) into a Visa Grant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What salary level must applicants meet for the Australia Skills in Demand visa in 2026?
As of 2026, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has been adjusted. For the Core Skills Pathway, you generally need a job offer of at least AUD 76,515 per year (excluding superannuation).
Can I move to Australia from India with my family on a work visa?
Yes. Your spouse and children can be included in your application. Spouses typically get full work rights, and children can enrol in Australian schools. At Bombay Migrations Australia, we specialise in family-stream migration to ensure your loved ones join you in Melbourne without delay.
What are the best states in Australia for Indian civil engineers in 2026?
Victoria and New South Wales currently have the highest infrastructure spend. Melbourne is a prime spot for civil engineers due to the "Big Build" initiative continuing through 2026.
Is it the easiest way to get an Australian PR from India for nurses?
"Fast Track" priority. Nurses often receive invitations within weeks of submitting an EOI, sometimes with as few as 65-75 points.
