The Australian Government has introduced an important change to the Training Visa (Subclass 407) application process. This update, announced by the Department of Home Affairs, took effect on 11 March 2026 and changes how and when visa applications can be lodged.
For employers, migration agents, and visa applicants, understanding this change is critical to avoid invalid applications and potential visa complications.
What is the Training Visa (Subclass 407)?
The Subclass 407 Training Visa allows individuals to come to Australia temporarily to participate in workplace-based occupational training.
The visa is commonly used for:
- Workplace training to improve skills in a current occupation
- Training required for professional registration or licensing
- Capacity-building training for overseas professionals
This visa helps applicants gain structured training within an Australian workplace environment.
For official visa details, visit the Training Visa (Subclass 407) page on the Department of Home Affairs website.
What Has Changed?
Previously, the process allowed applicants to submit multiple applications at the same time.
Previous Process
Applicants and sponsors could lodge the following simultaneously:
- Sponsorship application
- Nomination application
- Visa application
This often allowed onshore applicants to receive a Bridging Visa quickly after lodging their visa.
New Process (Effective 11 March 2026)
Under the updated rule, the process must now follow a strict sequential order:
- Employer must become an approved Temporary Activities Sponsor
- Employer must lodge and receive nomination approval
- Only after nomination approval can the Subclass 407 visa application be lodged
This means applicants cannot lodge the visa application until the nomination has been approved.
What Happens if the Visa Is Lodged Too Early?
If the visa application is submitted before the nomination is approved, the Department will consider the application invalid.
Consequences may include:
- The visa application will not be processed
- Visa application fees will be refunded
- No Bridging Visa will be granted
- Applicants may face visa status risks if their current visa expires
For applicants already in Australia, this could create significant immigration complications if not planned properly.
Why Did the Government Introduce This Change?
The Australian Government introduced this change to ensure the integrity of the training visa program.
The new system aims to:
- Prevent misuse of the visa as a pathway to extend stay in Australia
- Ensure genuine training programs are in place before visa lodgement
- Strengthen compliance and reduce exploitation risks
- Improve the quality and credibility of the training visa program
This ensures the visa is used strictly for genuine skills development and workplace training.
Impact on Employers
Employers who wish to sponsor trainees must now plan earlier and more carefully.
They must:
- Obtain or maintain Temporary Activities Sponsor approval
- Prepare a detailed training plan
- Wait for nomination approval before the trainee lodges a visa
This means businesses should allow additional time for the overall process.
Impact on Visa Applicants
For visa applicants, particularly those already in Australia, this change may affect timing and visa strategy.
Applicants should consider:
- Their current visa expiry date
- Possible processing delays for nomination approval
- Whether another visa may be needed to maintain lawful status
Careful planning is now essential to avoid gaps in visa status.
Professional Advice Is Now More Important Than Ever
Because of these changes, applicants and employers should seek professional migration advice before proceeding with a training visa pathway.
A properly structured strategy can help:
- Avoid invalid visa applications
- Maintain lawful immigration status
- Ensure the training program meets government requirements
How Global Consult Can Help
At Global Consult Australia, our migration team assists both employers and applicants with:
- Temporary Activities Sponsorship applications
- Subclass 407 nomination preparation
- Training program compliance
- Visa application strategy and lodgement
With years of experience supporting Australian businesses and international professionals, we ensure that applications are prepared correctly and submitted at the right time.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 change to the Training Visa (Subclass 407) introduces a more structured and controlled application process.
While this strengthens the integrity of the program, it also means that timing, compliance, and planning are now more critical than ever.
If you are considering applying for a training visa or sponsoring a trainee, make sure you understand the new process requirements before lodging any application.
📩 Need advice about the Training Visa (Subclass 407)?
Contact Global Consult today to discuss your options and ensure your application is handled correctly.