Australia and the European Union are currently discussing a potential two-way mobility arrangement that could, if progressed, reshape how European nationals live and work in Australia — and vice versa — allowing Australians similar opportunities across EU member states in the future.
At this stage, the proposal remains preliminary and forms part of broader diplomatic and trade negotiations between Canberra and Brussels. No new visa category has been announced, and Australia’s existing migration rules remain unchanged.
The concept under discussion would, in principle, make it easier for EU citizens to move to Australia for work under a streamlined framework, with potential stays of up to four years. Any future arrangement would still be subject to Australian migration law, eligibility requirements, and domestic labour market protections.
Why Australia is considering the proposal
From Australia’s perspective, the discussions are being driven by persistent skills and labour shortages, particularly in sectors where European qualifications and training standards closely align with Australian requirements. Trades, engineering, infrastructure, and other technical roles are frequently referenced in policy discussions as areas of need.
Government sources have indicated that increased mobility could help employers access a broader, work-ready talent pool while supporting economic growth, without relying solely on traditional employer-sponsored visa models.
Why the European Union is interested
From the EU’s side, the proposed mobility arrangement is being positioned as a strategic incentive within wider negotiations on the long-anticipated Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement.
Trade talks have faced repeated delays, largely due to disagreements around agricultural access and market protections. Enhanced mobility rights for EU citizens — and reciprocal access for Australians — are being explored as a way to strengthen cooperation and revive negotiations that have remained stalled.
For EU policymakers, expanded access to Australia would also provide European professionals and skilled workers with greater international mobility, global work experience, and long-term career flexibility in a labour market with ongoing demand for skilled workers.
What this means right now
While media reports have highlighted the potential scope of the proposal, it is important to note that it remains at a government-to-government discussion stage. Any final agreement would require detailed negotiation around visa design, worker protections, migration caps, and implementation timelines.
There is currently no confirmed timeframe, and no changes have been made to existing Australian visa pathways.
For EU nationals considering Australia, this proposal should be viewed as a policy signal, not a migration option that can yet be relied upon. Existing skilled, employer-sponsored, and temporary work visas remain the only lawful pathways to live and work in Australia.
NB Migration Law continues to monitor developments closely and will provide updates as soon as there is clarity on how — or if — this proposal may translate into practical migration options.
If you are a European national considering migrating to Australia, there may already be existing visa pathways available based on your skills, experience, and circumstances. Seeking advice early can help you understand what options may be available now, and how future policy changes could affect your plans.