Australia’s 2024–25 Migration Program: Key Highlights
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.
New Changes to Subclass 482 Visa Policy: Simplified GTE Requirements Effective August 2024
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.
Update on 2024-25 Skilled Migration Program State Nomination Allocations
The long awaited allocations of State Nominations for the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visa have been announced. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the allocations.
Introducing the Australian Review Tribunal (ART)
The Australian government has recently established the Australian Review Tribunal (ART) to replace the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) under Administrative Review Tribunal Act 2024 (ART Act). This move aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in administrative decision-making.
Closure of the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)
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.
Increased Flexibility for Temporary Work Visa Holders: Key Changes Effective 1 July 2024
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.
Visa Hopping and Student Visas: The Government’s recent changes to strengthen the integrity of the student visa program
On 1 July 2024, the Australian Government will implement new restrictions on the student visa application process as part of its Migration Strategy.
How to Navigate Sponsor Requirements: The Most Overlooked Application When Applying for a Partner Visa.
A comprehensive guide on the sponsorship requirements, outlining the application process, limitations, legal framework, and essential tips to help you navigate this complex journey successfully.
TSMIT increased from 1 July, 2024.
Starting July 1, the minimum salary threshold (TSMIT) for sponsoring an overseas skilled worker will rise from $70,000 to $73,150, excluding superannuation. Be aware that you may need to offer a higher salary based on the Australian market rate for the specific position.
Age Limit Maintained at 50 for PhD & Master’s applicants of the Subclass 485 Visa
In a welcome update from the Department of Home Affairs, the maximum age limit for Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD) graduates applying for the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa in the Post-Higher Education Work stream will remain at 50 years after July 1, 2024.
Disclosing Accurate Health Information for Partner Visa Applications is crucial
Recently, the Department of Home Affairs has raised concerns regarding inconsistencies in health information provided by secondary applicants aged 23 years or older for Partner (Subclass 309/100) visa applications.
Changes to Australia's Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) Visa from 1 July 2024
The Australian government has announced significant changes to the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa program, set to take effect from July 1, 2024, subject to the passage of legislative amendments.
Permanent Closure of Skilled – Recognised Graduate (Subclass 476) Visa from July 1, 2024
The Australian government has announced the permanent closure of the Skilled – Recognised Graduate (Subclass 476) visa, effective from July 1, 2024. This decision is part of the broader Migration Strategy, as the visa is no longer considered aligned with the country's policy priorities.
Victoria's 2023-24 State Nominated Skilled Visa Program Closed to New Applications
The Victorian government has announced the closure of its 2023-24 state nominated skilled visa program for new Registrations of Interest (ROIs) as of April 23, 2024. This program covers the subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) and subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) visas.
Parent Visas —an overview of the options
Find out about the different permanent visa options for your parents to join you in Australia
NSW Government provides easier access to the Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
The NSW government has simplified access to nominations for the Subclass 491 visa under pathway 1, making it easier for Skilled migratns to access
Australia Introduces Genuine Student (GS) Requirement for Student Visas
Starting March 23, 2024, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion will be substituted with a requirement called Genuine Student (GS) for submissions of Student visa (subclass 500)
Applications open for Innovation and Early Careers Skills Exchange Pilot (IECSEP) Program
Introducing the Pathway for Professional Exchange between the UK and Australia
New Age Limits and Visa Flexibility for UK Citizens applying for Working Holiday Visas
Exclusive Benefits for UK Citizens applying for Working Holiday Visas
Closure of COVID 408 Visa
The wonderful COVID 19 visa will now close to all applicants from 1 February 2024…