Australian Immigration Daily News

The Australian Government has introduced the Migration (Arrangements for Maritime Crew Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/025), which will commence on 1 November 2026.

The new instrument repeals and replaces IMMI 16/115 and specifies the approved form, place and manner for making a valid application for a Maritime Crew (Temporary) (Class ZM) visa.

Online Lodgement Arrangements

Applicants will continue to lodge online using Form 1273 (Internet), in accordance with the Department of Home Affairs’ electronic application procedures.

Alternative Lodgement in Authorised Circumstances

The instrument also provides an alternative application pathway where the Department has given the applicant written authorisation.

In these circumstances, an applicant may use Form 1273 and must:

• lodge the application in the manner directed by the Department;
• comply with all instructions contained in the written authorisation; and
• submit the application by the date specified by the Department.

This arrangement provides the Department with greater flexibility to facilitate electronic lodgement in appropriate cases, including urgent applications. It may also reduce the costs, delays and risks associated with sending application documents by post or courier.

Practical Implications

The changes are administrative and do not alter the substantive eligibility criteria for the Maritime Crew visa. However, applicants and migration professionals must ensure that an application is lodged using the correct form and in the prescribed manner.

Where written authorisation for an alternative lodgement method has been issued, strict compliance with the Department’s directions and nominated deadline will be essential. Failure to follow the prescribed application arrangements may affect the validity of the application.

The new arrangements apply from 1 November 2026.

Source:Migration-Arrangements-for-Maritime-Crew-visa-applications-instrument-2026---the-instrument.pdf and

Migration-Arrangements-for-Maritime-Crew-visa-applications-instrument-2026 - explanatory statement.pdf