Changes to Training (Subclass 407) Visas: Mandatory Offshore Applications

The Australian government has announced significant regulatory changes to the Training (Subclass 407) visa program. Effective 12 November 2026, the Migration Amendment (Training Visas—Application Requirements) Regulations 2026 will change the lodgement and grant requirements for prospective SC407 visa applicants. Here is what employers and applicants need to know about the upcoming restrictions.

Mandatory Offshore Lodgement for Training (Subclass 407) Visa

Under the new regulations, to lodge a valid SC407 visa application, the applicant must be outside Australia at the time of application. This represents a major shift from previous policies that allowed many applicants to transition onto a Training visa while already onshore.

Offshore Grant Requirement

The amendments also modify clause 407.411 of Schedule 2 of the Migration Regulations. Consequently, applicants subject to the offshore lodgement rule must also be outside Australia when the visa is granted. This effectively prevents applicants from lodging offshore, returning to Australia on a different visa, and waiting for the SC407 visa to be granted while onshore.

Are There Any Exceptions?

As of now, there are no exceptions for Training Visa (SC407) applicants to lodge onshore or offshore, meaning all new SC407 visa applicants must lodge offshore.

Ending Visa Hopping

This change targets visa hopping and builds on the broader sponsorship and temporary migration reforms that commenced earlier this year on 11 March 2026. By forcing applicants offshore, the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) aims to ensure the SC407 program is used genuinely for targeted workplace training rather than as a pathway to simply extend a stay in Australia. Read: The end of visa hopping: what it means for travellers and migrants.

What This Means for You

These changes apply to all SC407 applications made on or after 12 November 2026. If you are an Australian business looking to sponsor a trainee, or an individual currently in Australia hoping to undertake a structured training program, you must adjust your immigration strategy immediately. Prospective trainees currently onshore will need to factor in international travel and offshore processing times. Speak with one of our immigration lawyers today to develop an immigration strategy that achieves your visa goals.

Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling.

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?

If you need a new immigration strategy because of changes to the SC407 visa requirements, contact our team of immigration lawyers at Agape Henry Crux for tailored, professional advice and guidance. The team works closely with two of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law who specialise in complex visa matters. We recommend booking a Migration Planning Session by calling 02 8310 5230 or emailing info@ahclawyers.com to arrange a time.

We speak fluent English and Mandarin. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.

Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, is recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™ and the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards and in the 2027 edition of The Best Law Firms™ - Australia.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.

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