Based on recent trends, a reduction in visa processing times is being prioritized by authorities, but significant delays are still present due to high demand and ongoing backlogs. For a Software Engineer applying under the NSW state nomination (Subclass 190), the nomination assessment typically takes about 2-8 weeks after payment, and the Department of Home Affairs may then take an additional 6.5 to 8 months to process the visa. There is no immediate indication of a drastic reduction in processing times, so applicants should anticipate the standard timeframe for now