From December 6, 2024, the National Innovation Visa (NIV) has replaced the Global Talent Visa under Subclass 858, marking a significant shift in Australia's approach to skilled migration. This new permanent visa program is designed to attract exceptionally talented individuals who can drive innovation, strengthen critical industries, and contribute to the nation’s long-term prosperity.

Australia’s new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa, under the Subclass 482 framework, introduces streamlined pathways for skilled migration. With three distinct streams—Specialist Skills, Core Skills, and Labour Agreement—the visa offers reduced work experience requirements, enhanced flexibility, and clearer pathways to permanent residency. Covering a broad range of occupations, it supports employers addressing labour shortages while empowering skilled workers with greater opportunities and mobility.

The Australian Government has introduced the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), replacing outdated occupation lists with a streamlined framework featuring 456 key roles. Effective 7 December 2024, the CSOL will support the new Skills in Demand visa and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186). Covering industries like healthcare, IT, construction, and education, this update simplifies migration pathways for skilled workers and employers. Contact us for expert guidance on navigating these changes!

On 14 May 2024, the Australian Government unveiled the planning levels for its 2024–25 permanent Migration Program, setting it at 185,000 places. This strategic plan aims to address skills shortages, boost regional development, and strengthen social cohesion by strengthening family and community bonds.

As of 2 August 2024, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced significant updates to the Subclass 482 visa, particularly in relation to the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for occupations in the Short-Term Stream. These changes aim to simplify the application process, reduce the burden on applicants, and ensure a fairer and more transparent system.

The Migration Amendment (Business Innovation and Investment Program Closure) Regulations 2024 has been introduced to amend the Migration Regulations 1994. This amendment effectively closes the BIIP to new visa applications across several streams.

From 1 July 2024, Temporary Work (Skilled) (Subclass 457) visa holders, Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa holders and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) (Subclass 494) visa holders who stop working with their employer sponsor will have more time to find a new sponsor, apply for a different visa or arrange to depart Australia.

On 1 July 2024, the Australian Government will implement new restrictions on the student visa application process as part of its Migration Strategy.