New 407 visa rule: nomination must be approved before applying. Learn what this means for sponsors and applicants.
A major procedural shift has arrived for the Training Visa (Subclass 407). From 11 March 2026, applicants can no longer lodge a visa application until the nomination has been approved.
This change affects both applicants and sponsors and is likely to reshape how 407 visa strategies are planned. If you’re preparing an application, timing and compliance are now more critical than ever. Need guidance? 👉 https://www.oneplanetmigrationlaw.com.au/contact
Key Takeaways
- 407 visa applications can only be lodged after nomination approval
- The change commenced on 11 March 2026
- Sponsors must ensure full compliance before nomination submission
- This reform aims to reduce misuse and improve processing integrity
What Has Changed for the 407 Training Visa?
Under the Migration Amendment (Training Visas—Sponsorship Requirements) Regulations 2026, a key sequencing rule has been introduced.
Previous Process (Before 11 March 2026)
Applicants could:
- Lodge a visa application as soon as the nomination was submitted
- Wait for both the nomination and visa to be processed simultaneously
New Process (From 11 March 2026)
Now:
- The nomination must be approved first under s.140GB(2)
- Only then can the visa application be lodged
This removes the ability to “front-load” visa applications while nominations are still pending.
Why This Change Was Introduced
The Department of Home Affairs has made it clear that this update is about strengthening program integrity.
1. Ensuring Genuine Training Programs
By requiring nomination approval first, the Department can:
- Assess the training program in detail
- Confirm it meets regulatory standards
- Filter out non-genuine arrangements earlier
2. Strengthening Sponsor Accountability
Sponsors must now:
- Finalise all documentation upfront
- Ensure their Temporary Activities Sponsorship is compliant
- Submit high-quality, decision-ready nominations
3. Reducing Processing Backlogs
This change may help:
- Prevent incomplete or speculative visa applications
- Streamline processing queues
- Improve overall system efficiency
What This Means for Sponsors
Sponsors will carry more responsibility at the front end of the process.
Key Impacts
- No more parallel processing of nomination and visa
- Increased pressure to lodge decision-ready nominations
- Greater scrutiny of training plans and compliance
Practical Tips for Sponsors
- Prepare a comprehensive training plan before lodging
- Double-check sponsorship approval status
- Ensure all supporting documents are complete and accurate
What This Means for Applicants
For applicants, this change primarily affects timing and planning.
Key Impacts
- You must wait for nomination approval before applying
- Processing timelines may feel longer upfront
- Travel or bridging plans may need adjustment
How to Stay Prepared
- Work closely with your sponsor early
- Have your visa documents ready in advance
- Monitor nomination progress closely
Risks to Watch Out For
This update introduces new risks if not handled correctly:
- Delays if nominations are incomplete or refused
- Missed deadlines for applicants relying on quick lodgement
- Higher refusal risk for poorly prepared nominations
In short, the quality of the nomination is now more critical than ever.
A Real-World Perspective
In typical Department fashion, this update arrived with minimal lead time—prompting a last-minute rush of 407 applications before the rule took effect.
While stressful for migration professionals, the long-term goal is clear:
a more structured, transparent, and compliant training visa system.
How One Planet Migration Can Help
These changes highlight the importance of getting your strategy right from the start.
At One Planet Migration, we:
- Prepare decision-ready nominations
- Align training programs with legislative requirements
- Support both sponsors and applicants through every step
We’re here to simplify complexity—connecting humanity, one visa at a time.
FAQs
Can I still lodge a 407 visa before nomination approval?
No. From 11 March 2026, you must wait until the nomination is approved.
What law introduced this change?
The change comes from the Migration Amendment (Training Visas—Sponsorship Requirements) Regulations 2026.
Does this affect all 407 visa applications?
Yes. All new applications must follow this updated process.
Will this slow down visa processing?
It may shift timelines earlier in the process, but it could improve overall system efficiency and reduce backlogs.
Need help with your visa application? Our experienced migration lawyers are ready to assist. Book a consultation with One Planet Migration Law today.
