Recent changes in Australia’s immigration policies have introduced several adjustments affecting skilled visa holders.
Notably, the Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa – New Zealand stream has been permanently closed to new applications from 1 July 2023, in support of a new direct pathway to Australian citizenship for New Zealand citizens. This closure is significant as it shifts the focus from permanent residency to citizenship for New Zealanders.
Additionally, the government has unveiled a strategy to reform the migration system, which includes stricter English language requirements for student and temporary graduate visas, and a new visa for individuals with in-demand skills. Furthermore, there have been announcements regarding the introduction of three tiers of Temporary Skilled Migration, changes to minimum wages for skilled visa holders, the removal of Labour Market Testing (LMT), and updates to Skilled Occupation Lists.
These reforms aim to provide all temporary skilled visa holders with a pathway to Permanent Residence and greater mobility for employer-sponsored visa holders to switch employers. Such changes reflect Australia’s efforts to streamline its immigration system and address the needs of its labour market while also providing clear pathways for skilled individuals to contribute to and settle in the country.
Recent updates to Australia’s immigration policies have introduced significant changes for holders of the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482). Notably, from 23 November 2024, applicants for this visa will only need one year of full-time work experience, a reduction from the previous requirement.
This change applies across all streams, including the short-term, medium-term, and labour agreement streams. Additionally, the Australian government plans to replace the subclass 482 visa with a new ‘Skills in Demand’ visa by late 2024. This new visa program is designed to better meet the evolving needs of Australia’s labor market, aligning the intake of skilled migrants with the economic needs of the country.
The forthcoming ‘Skills in Demand’ visa is part of a broader 10-year migration strategy, indicating a shift towards a more dynamic and responsive immigration system that addresses the specific skills shortages in Australia. Read various changes on these government website:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485/changes
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels