News

Paper‑Based Decisions at the Tribunal: What the February 2026 Changes Mean for Migration Reviews

  If you (or a family member or employee) are in merits review at the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), there’s an important shift to be aware of: more migration matters can be decided without an oral hearing, based primarily on written documents and submissions. On 5 February 2026, the Government announced that legislation has passed… Continue reading Paper‑Based Decisions at the Tribunal: What the February 2026 Changes Mean for Migration Reviews

Read More

Understanding Parent Visa Queue Assessments, Queue Letters, and Waiting Times

  For countless families, Australia’s Parent Visa program represents a long-term promise shaped by love, responsibility, and the hope of reuniting across generations. But the process can feel confusing, especially when terms like Queue Assessment (QA), Queue Letter (QL), and queue date are used. Recently, Department of Home Affairs has issued a large batch of… Continue reading Understanding Parent Visa Queue Assessments, Queue Letters, and Waiting Times

Read More

A Practical Guide to the Australian Immi App for Visa Applicants

  Applying for an Australian visa is an exciting step, and the Department of Home Affairs is continually improving the process to make it smoother and more convenient for applicants around the world. One of the newest tools supporting this effort is the Australian Immi App – a simple, secure way for eligible applicants to… Continue reading A Practical Guide to the Australian Immi App for Visa Applicants

Read More

Partner Visa: Should You Apply Onshore or Offshore?

  One of the first and most important decisions in a Partner visa application is also one of the most practical: Should you lodge the Partner visa inside Australia (onshore) or outside Australia (offshore)? Both options can ultimately lead to permanent residency. The difference is not the end result — it’s how you live while… Continue reading Partner Visa: Should You Apply Onshore or Offshore?

Read More

Congratulations! You Now Have Australian PR — What’s Next?

  Receiving confirmation that your Australian Permanent Residency (PR) has been granted is a significant milestone. For many people, it marks the end of years of uncertainty and the beginning of long-term stability in Australia. Once the excitement settles, a common question follows: What do I actually need to do now — and does my… Continue reading Congratulations! You Now Have Australian PR — What’s Next?

Read More

Employer Sponsored Visa Program – Comprehensive FAQ (ENS 186, RSMS 187, SID 482, SESR 494)

  Australia’s Employer Sponsored Program remains one of the most important pathways for skilled workers seeking temporary or permanent migration. This FAQ brings together the most common questions raised by applicants, with clear explanations based on current Department of Home Affairs guidance.   Processing Times   How are Employer Sponsored visa applications processed?   Applications… Continue reading Employer Sponsored Visa Program – Comprehensive FAQ (ENS 186, RSMS 187, SID 482, SESR 494)

Read More

Australia Clarifies Health Check Rules for Visa Applicants: What This Means for You

  Australia has introduced a clearer and more structured set of rules for visa‑related health examinations. Effective from 15 January 2026, the Migration (Specification of Required Medical Assessment) Instrument 2025 aims to make the process more transparent and predictable for applicants.   What Hasn’t Changed   You still need to: complete your health examinations through… Continue reading Australia Clarifies Health Check Rules for Visa Applicants: What This Means for You

Read More

New 4-Tier Invitation System for Subclass 189: What It Means for Your Visa Chances

  In December 2025, the Department of Home Affairs released an internal May 2025 minute under Freedom of Information, discussing how SkillSelect invitation rounds might be managed for the 2025–26 program year. This document is not a formal policy change, and it does not amend migration law. However, from a practitioner’s perspective, it is highly… Continue reading New 4-Tier Invitation System for Subclass 189: What It Means for Your Visa Chances

Read More

482/186 – Skilled Visa Reform – Technical Measures 2025: What You Should Know (From 29 November 2025)

  On 29 November 2025 (tomorrow), the Australian Government’s Migration Amendment (Skilled Visa Reform – Technical Measures) Regulations 2025 will come into effect. Although described as a “technical amendment”, these changes will have significant implications for the 482/TSS program, the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa, and the pathway to permanent residency under the ENS… Continue reading 482/186 – Skilled Visa Reform – Technical Measures 2025: What You Should Know (From 29 November 2025)

Read More
Google Reviews

Customer’s Experience With Us

Google-review
quote-icon

I got my partner visa recently thanks to Kathy and her coworkers. Very trust worthy company with professional experience. I have also recommended it to my friends and some of them already got their 190 nominations within a few days! Very impressive and highly recommended.

D. Wu
quote-icon

Kathy and her team are amazing! Kathy is very friendly and supportive. If you want quick and accurate answers, just give southern stone a call or email them and have a smooth migration experience. I highly recommend!

Abdul Khan
quote-icon

Kathy helped me with the application for the return to Australia Visa. She was efficient courteous and kind. I would definetely refer Kathys company to anyone who would need her services. Thank you again Kathy. Rita Iacono

Savina Lacono
quote-icon

I recently had the privilege of working with Southern Stone Immigration Agency and specifically, Kathy, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the experience. From start to finish, Southern Stone and Kathy provided exceptional service and demonstrated an unparalleled level of expertise in immigration matters. What sets Southern Stone Immigration Agency apart is their genuine care...

Lin Gan
quote-icon

I found Southern stone through the internet and seen all the great reviews and thought they would have to be good. I got in contact with Kathy and she was so responsive and clear with all her swift responses throughout my time working with her. I had a 461 partner visa declined due to immigration receiving my visa application late as it’s a paper application. She argued with every...

Mark Nalty
quote-icon

It is so refreshing to speak to a migration agency who is willing to listen to you and readily provide you with useful information for a simple question without even discussing fees. What great customer service! We will be definitely engaging with Southern Stone for our future application.

Sarah Coherny
quote-icon

Thank you Gloria for helping me with my inquiries. I would recommend your services to all my friends and relatives.

Swapnil Patel
Read All Reviews

Contact Us Now For An Obligation Free Initial Consultation

We’re Here To Make Your Australian Visa Application Process Stress And Hassle Free

Speak to an expert