Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
New Ministerial Direction 111 for Subclass 500
Ministerial Direction 111 (order for considering and disposing of offshore Subclass 500 (Student) visa applications) came into effect on 19 December 2024.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
Changes to the Minister of Religion Labour Agreement (MORLA)
From 13 December 2024, an updated Minister of Religion Labour Agreement (MORLA) commences.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/skilled-migration-program/recent-changes/changes-to-the-minister-of-religion-labour-agreement
New Skills In Demand (SID) Visa – Subclass 482
The SID visa has 3 streams:
- Core Skills stream.
- Specialist Skills stream.
- Labour Agreement stream.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skills-in-demand-visa-subclass-482
Changes to Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) Visa
From 7 December 2024, changes have been made to the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa.
Changes to Temporary Residence Transition stream:
- Applicants can count all periods of sponsored employment towards their 2-year work experience requirement. This does not just apply to employment with their sponsor.
- Applicants who have been employed in a related field or received a promotion can count this work towards the work experience requirement.
- Applicants are required to provide evidence they meet the work experience requirement, rather than the nominating employer.
- The Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) replaces the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). This is the same amount of AUD73,150, indexed annually.
- Age exemptions under the Temporary Skill Shortage visa still apply under the Skills in Demand visa. These include exemptions for regional medical practitioners and high income applicants. Without an exemption, applicants need to be younger than 45 at the time of application.
Changes to Direct Entry stream:
- Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) applies to this stream.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/employer-nomination-scheme-186
National Innovation Visa (NIV) – Subclass 858
From 7 December 2024 the National Innovation visa (NIV) replaced the Global Talent visa.
Exceptionally talented applicants need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Department of Home Affairs.
NIV applications will be processed according to the following priority order:
- Recipients of internationally prestigious awards. This includes: Nobel Prize laureates, Fields Medal recipients, Booker Prize winners or Olympic gold medalists.
- Exceptionally talented people in their field who are endorsed by a relevant Australian state, territory or federal government agency.
- People with exceptional skills in critical technologies, renewables and low emission technologies and health industries.
- Exceptionally talented people in agri-food and ag-tech, resources, defence capabilities and space, education, financial services and fin-tech, and infrastructure and transport.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858
New Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL)
On 3 December 2024,the Department of Home Affairs announced the release of the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
The CSOL will apply to the Core Skills stream of the new Skills in Demand (subclass 482) visa. The CSOL will also apply to the Direct Entry stream of the permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skills-in-demand-visa-subclass-482
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/employer-nomination-scheme-186/direct-entry-stream
Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES)
-Subclass 403 for Indian nationals
The department will grant up to 3,000 Subclass 403 MATES stream visas each year. Indian nationals interested in applying will be selected through a pre-application ballot process.
Eligible fields of study include:
- renewable energy
- mining
- engineering
- information and communications technology
- artificial intelligence
- financial technology
- agricultural technology.
The first ballot for this visa stream opens for registrations from December 2024.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-work-403/mates
Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program
-Commencement of new arrangements for China, Vietnam and India.
On 1 October 2024, the new pre-application process commenced for program year 2024-2025, with ballot registrations opening for China, Vietnam and India.
The department will notify those randomly selected by email and instruct them to apply for a first Work and Holiday visa online.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/new-work-and-holiday-subclass-462-visa-pre-application-process
New Designated Area Migration Agreement for Western Australia (WA)
From 1 July 2024, a new state-wide Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) for Western Australia will come into effect.
WA Employers will continue to be able to access the occupations and concessions of DAMAs that are in operation for relevant regions of WA. Additionally, employers will now be able to access a broader list of occupations and concessions under the new WA DAMA.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/regional-migration/dama
Permanent Residents must have a valid travel facility linked to your visa
As a permanent visa holder, you must have a valid travel facility linked to your visa to return back to Australia. You must understand the conditions of your visa and your right to re-enter Australia before travelling overseas.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1236
Visa conditions 8107, 8607 and 8608 are changing
From 1 July 2024, visa conditions 8107, 8607 and 8608 are changing.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions/conditions-list
Onshore Student visa Eligibility
From 1 July 2024, the following list of visa holders will be unable to apply for a Student visa onshore:
Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) in the Domestic Worker (Diplomatic or consular) stream
Domestic Worker (Temporary) Diplomatic and Consular visa (subclass 426)
Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
Visitor visa (subclass 600)
Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) (ETA)
Medical Treatment visa (subclass 602)
eVisitor visa (subclass 651)
Transit visa (subclass 771)
Maritime Crew visa (subclass 988)
Diplomatic (Temporary) visa (subclass 995) – primary visa holder only. A family member of a Diplomatic (Temporary) visa (subclass 995) can apply for a Student visa in Australia
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) visa is closing
From July 2024, Department of Home Affairs will not accept any new applications for the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) visa.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/business-innovation-and-investment-188
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) is increasing
From 1 July 2024, the TSMIT will increase from $70,000 to $73,150.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-skill-shortage-482
Financial Capacity Requirement for Student visa
From 10 May 2024, the amount of money that Student visa applicants need to have to be eligible for the visa is increasing.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
Financial Capacity Requirement for Student Guardian visa
From 10 May 2024, the amount of money that Student Guardian visa applicants need to have to be eligible for the visa is increasing.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-590
New Genuine Student Requirement
From 23 March 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaces the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for student visa. This change applies to all student visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
New English Language Requirement
The Australian Government has made changes to English Language Requirements for Student (subclass 500) and Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visas. This change applies to all Student and Temporary Graduate visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485/
AITSL Skills Assessment
You must complete a minimum of four years full-time (or part-time equivalent) study at university level that results in qualification/s, and includes a relevant initial teacher education qualification. You must also meet English language requirements that can be met either through a study option or with a suitable Academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS). AITSL do not accept other form of English language test.
AITSL Skilled Employment Statement (SES)
A Skilled Employment Statement (SES) is an optional summary of your relevant skilled employment which you can use as part of the Points Test for skilled migration. After you have received a Skills Assessment Certificate from AITSL, you will be eligible to request a SES.
Please refer to:https://www.aitsl.edu.au/
ANMAC Modified Skills Assessment
You must hold current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA/AHPRA), the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) or the Midwifery Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) to be able to apply for the Modified skills assessment.
ANMAC Modified Plus Skills Assessment
You must hold a current letter of ‘Notice of in-principle approval of registration subject to proof of identity’ from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). You must also hold current registration as a nurse (registered nurse or enrolled nurse) or midwife overseas to be able to apply for the Modified Plus skills assessment.
Full Skills Assessment
For applicants who hold current registration in a country other than Australia or New Zealand.
To be assessed as a Registered Nurse, you must hold a minimum Bachelor of Nursing qualification from Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, the United Kingdom or the United States and hold registration as a Registered Nurse in that same country.
To be assessed as a Registered Midwife, you must hold a minimum Bachelor of Midwifery qualification from Ireland, United Kingdom or United States and hold registration as a registered midwife.
If you assess as an Enrolled Nurse, you do not qualify for a Full skills assessment.
Please refer to:https://www.anmac.org.au/skilled-migration-services/nursing-and-midwifery-skills-assessment
Closure of Subclass 408 (Covid-19 Pandemic Event) visa
Subclass 408 (Covid-19 Pandemic Event) visa is closed to new applicants from 1 February 2024.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-activity-408/australian-government-endorsed-events-covid-19
NSW Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa Pathway 1 is open now
Pathway 1 – Apply directly to Investment NSW if you have an established work history with a regional NSW-based employer.
Please refer to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/skilled-work-regional-visa-subclass-491
New Permanent visa – The Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV) (subclass 192)
Subclass 192 visa will be commenced in 2024. It will provide up to 3,000 permanent places annually for citizens of participating Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste and their immediate family members.
To be eligible, the main applicant must:
be aged between 18 to 45 to enter the ballot
be selected through the ballot process
secure a formal ongoing job offer in Australia
meet English requirement
meet Health and Character checks
hold a passport for a participating country
have been born in or have a parent who was born in an eligible country.
Please refer to:https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/people-connections/people-connections-in-the-pacific/pacific-engagement-visa
Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA)
The AACA assesses academic qualifications awarded in Australia and overseas for the purpose of migration for the occupation ‘Architect (ANZSCO 232111)’.
You can choose between three assessment pathways:
Verification of Australian Accredited Architecture Qualification
This verification process is for applicants who hold an accredited architecture qualification from Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong or Singapore and require a Skills Assessment for migration purposes only.
In Australia, the accredited qualification is normally the Master of Architecture degree. Bachelor-level degrees are not accredited.
UK Qualifications (RIBA Part 1 & 2)
Applicants who completed United Kingdom Architects Registration Board (UK ARB) prescribed qualifications Part 1 and Part 2 may be eligible to obtain a Skills Assessment letter via the UK/AUS Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA).
Under MRA between United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, eligible applicants can apply for mutual recognition either as a registered architect or a qualified graduate.
Other Overseas Qualifications
Applicants who completed academic qualifications in architecture awarded by institutions outside of Australia are required to undertake the Overseas Qualifications Assessment (OQA) or the Experienced Practitioner Assessment (EPA) to obtain a Skills Assessment letter.
OQA determines whether an overseas academic qualification compares with a current Australian accredited qualification in architecture.
EPA provides an alternate fast-track pathway to registration for practitioners with relevant education and experience at executive level in complex projects.
Please refer to: https://aaca.org.au/migration-assessments/
Partner (Subclass 820 and Subclass 309) visa update
From 25 November 2023, both Partner (subclass 820) visa and Partner (subclass 309) visa can be granted to applicants in or outside Australia.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/partner-onshore/temporary-820#Overview
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/partner-offshore/provisional-309
Pilot 2 ACS Skills Assessment Opportunity
Free and fast skills assessment for migrants – Ending 29th February 2024
Skilled migrants play a vital role in Australia’s workforce. They may be able to get a free and fast-tracked skills assessment if they are on a family, partner, humanitarian, or refugee visa and have experience in a priority occupation.
You are eligible for the Pilot 2 assessment if ALL the following applies to you:
You have skills, experience, and/or qualifications from occupation list
You have not had a skills assessment in your occupation before
You are living in Australia when you submit your application
You hold an eligible visa granted on or after 1 January 2016
Please refer to:https://www.acs.org.au/msa/information-for-applicants.html
ACS Skills Assessment Guidelines update
ACS Skills Assessment Guidelines will be updated on 22 April 2023. ACS will be allowing a grace period from 22 April 2023 to 20 May 2023 for the use of the existing guideline.
Here is some of key changes ACS is making in this update:
ICT content (Major/Minor) requirements for Postgraduate qualifications are now updated. All post graduate qualifications will be assessed in the same way irrespective of the underlying Bachelors qualification being ICT or otherwise.
ICT content (Major) requirement for Diploma is now updated. The minimum requirement is 1-year ICT content.
Introduced alternative employment evidence (e.g., government issued work permit) for countries with no income tax.
Please refer to:https://www.acs.org.au/msa/information-for-applicants.html
No new subclass 476 visa application can be lodged or finalised
The Skilled-Recognised Graduate (subclass 476) visa has been capped from 22 December 2023.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-recognition-graduate-476
ACS Tech & Digital Employability Training program
The ACS Tech & Digital Employability Training program will equip you with the additional skills you need to secure the right tech role in Australia.
You may be eligible if you:
Possess a suitable skills assessment in an eligible occupation on or after 1 January 2012 and held it for 12 months or more
Seeking an Employability Assessment in the priority occupation for which you received a suitable skills assessment
Are in paid employment below your skill level at the time of submitting your Application Form to participate in the program
Worked at least 30 hours per fortnight in the last month
Live in Australia on an eligible permanent visa at the time you submit the Application Form
Are not registered as a job seeker or have an active referral with Workforce Australia, Disability Employment Services, or the Community Development Program
Have not previously completed or withdrawn from a Pilot 3 Employability Assessment
Please refer to:https://www.acs.org.au/msa/information-for-applicants.html
Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) Skills Assessment
Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Skills Assessment
The TSS skills assessment program is to determine whether an applicant can work in Australia at the required skill level for the nominated occupation. This skills assessment is for people who are applying for a Temporary Skills Shortage (subclass 482) visa who work in a nominated occupation and who hold a passport from a nominated country or Special Administrative Region (SAR).
Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP)
The OSAP program is to determine whether an applicant can work in Australia at the required skill level for the nominated occupation. This skills assessment is for people who are applying for a skilled migration visa to Australia (excluding 485 or TSS visa), who work in a nominated occupation, and hold a passport from a nominated country or Special Administrative Region (SAR).
Migration Skills Assessment (MSA)
The MSA program is to determine whether an applicant can work in Australia at the required skill level for the nominated occupation. This skills assessment is for people who are applying for a permanent skilled migration visa to Australia in occupations and countries that are not required to be assessed under other TRA skills assessment programs.
Provisional Skills Assessment (PSA)
The PSA program is for recent international graduates who are planning to apply for a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa. It is also a pre-requisite for the Job Ready Program (JRP).
To apply for the PSA, you must have an Australian qualification directly relevant to the occupation you are applying for. This qualification must be from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
Job Ready Program (JRP)
The JRP program is a skills assessment of an applicant’s qualifications and employment experience. It is for international student graduates with an Australian qualification that has been verified through a Provisional Skills Assessment. The assessment will compare your applied skills to determine you meet Australian standards for a skilled worker in your nominated occupations. It is a pathway for international graduates to pursue skills migration in Australia.
You must obtain a minimum of 12 months of full-time paid employment (or equivalent part-time employment) in an appropriate work environment.
Please refer to:https://www.tradesrecognitionaustralia.gov.au/skills-assessment
Engineers Australia Skills Assessment Pathways
If your qualification is accredited, you can choose between four assessment pathways:
Australian qualification – have Australian qualifications accredited by Engineers Australia.
Washington Accord – have an accredited qualification issued from a country under the Washington Accord.
Dublin Accord – have an accredited qualification issued from a country under the Dublin Accord.
Sydney Accord – have an accredited qualification issued from a country under the Sydney Accord
If your qualification isn’t accredited, apply through the competency demonstration report (CDR) pathway. A CDR is a way of assessing whether your qualifications fit within an Australian occupational category and engineering category. To determine this, you’ll need to provide written accounts of three episodes in your career and your knowledge, skills and competence are assessed against internationally benchmarked standards.
Please refer to:https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/migrants/migration-skills-assessment#accordion-1276
Vetassess Skills Assessment – Priority processing your application in 10 business days
If you’re in a hurry and would like to fast track your application, Vetassess offer a priority service where Vetassess will assess your application in 10 business days for an extra cost of $806. Priority processing is available for general and professional occupations. You must lodge your application online.
Please refer to:https://www.vetassess.com.au/skills-assessment-for-migration/professional-occupations/priority-processing-urgent-applications
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Vetassess Skills Assessment – Acceptable reasons for priority processing
Vetassess accept the following urgent reasons for priority processing:
You have received an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs or an Australian state or territory government, which has an expiry date
Your visa expires within eight weeks and you are unable to obtain another visa
You are turning 33, 40 or 45 within eight weeks
Your English test result (IELTS or PTE) expires within eight weeks
Your Partner Skills Assessment or English test result expires within eight weeks.
Please refer to:https://www.vetassess.com.au/skills-assessment-for-migration/professional-occupations/priority-processing-urgent-applications
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Vetassess Skills Assessment – Date Deemed Skilled
As part of the assessment process, Vetassess will determine the date you met the skill level requirements for the nominated occupation. Vetassess will only count skilled employment post the Date Deemed Skilled as eligible for points test purposes.
The Date Deemed Skilled noted on the outcome letter is determined by assessing your qualifications and employment against the skills assessment criteria for your nominated occupation.
Once Vetassess have determined the date that your qualifications and employment meet our criteria for the occupation, all highly relevant and/or closely related work experience post that date is considered as skilled employment that is eligible for points test purposes.
Please refer to:https://www.vetassess.com.au/skills-assessment-for-migration/skills-assessment-for-professional-occupations/application-process-for-a-professional-or-general-skills-application
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Vetassess Skills Assessment – Required educational level
Please note that Vetassess will not be assessing an Australian Graduate Diploma or comparable overseas postgraduate diploma in combination with underpinning sub-degree qualifications for comparability to the educational level of an Australian Bachelor degree. This is based on the different nature and learning outcomes of an Australian Bachelor degree compared to other qualifications on the AQF. The Postgraduate Diploma may, however, be considered for assessment against the requirements of occupations which require a qualification at AQF Diploma or Advanced Diploma/ Associate degree level.
Please refer to:https://www.vetassess.com.au/skills-assessment-for-migration/skills-assessment-for-professional-occupations/application-process-for-a-professional-or-general-skills-application
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Removal of the Labour Market Testing (LMT) Requirement to Advertise on the Workforce Australia Website
This change will apply to subclass 482 and 494 nomination applications, and will allow employers greater flexibility in relation to how they undertake LMT.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1154
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Vetassess Skills Assessment – Application process for a professional or general skills application
A Vetassess full skills assessment involves assessing your qualifications and employment against the suitability of your nominated occupation. Vetassess assess your qualification/s against the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and to determine the relevance of your qualifications for your nominated occupation. Employment assessment involves determining whether your work experience is at an appropriate skill level to your nominated occupation. You need a positive assessment of both your qualifications and your employment for your skills assessment to be successful.
Please refer to:https://www.vetassess.com.au/skills-assessment-for-migration/skills-assessment-for-professional-occupations/application-process-for-a-professional-or-general-skills-application
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Vetassess Skills Assessment – Date Deemed Skilled
As part of the assessment process, Vetassess will determine the date you met the skill level requirements for the nominated occupation. Vetassess will only count skilled employment post the Date Deemed Skilled as eligible for points test purposes.
The Date Deemed Skilled noted on the outcome letter is determined by assessing your qualifications and employment against the skills assessment criteria for your nominated occupation.
Once Vetassess have determined the date that your qualifications and employment meet our criteria for the occupation, all highly relevant and/or closely related work experience post that date is considered as skilled employment that is eligible for points test purposes.
Please refer to:https://www.vetassess.com.au/skills-assessment-for-migration/skills-assessment-for-professional-occupations/application-process-for-a-professional-or-general-skills-application
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Priority Attributes for Selection – TAS Nomination
To qualify for gold or green priority attributes, employment must be skilled ANZSCO 1-3. Only the most competitive candidates are invited to apply for nomination.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.tas.gov.au/skilled_migration/subclass_190/nomination_pathways/tasmanian_skilled_employment_pathway/priority_attributes_for_selection_tasmanian_skilled_employment_pathway
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Subclass 190 Skilled Employment Pathway – TAS Nomination – Long-term employment option – all occupations eligible for this pathway
You and your dependents must currently be living in Tasmania.
You must have been working in Tasmania in role closely related to your skills assessment for at least 15 months (at least 20 hours per week) immediately prior to your application and meet any occupational caveats listed for your occupation.
If you are a subcontractor, you may be considered in this pathway if you have a related skills assessment and at least 15 months business activity in Tasmania.
Your employer has been actively operating in Tasmania for the past 12 months. There must be a genuine, ongoing need for your position within the business including a minimum 12-month contract with at least three months remaining at the time you apply for nomination.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.tas.gov.au/skilled_migration/subclass_190/nomination_pathways/tasmanian_skilled_employment_pathway
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Subclass 190 Skilled Employment Pathway – TAS Nomination – TOSOL option:
You and your dependents must currently be living in Tasmania.
Your employment must be in an occupation listed on the TOSOL and meet any caveats listed for that occupation.
You must have been working in Tasmania for six months (at least 20 hours per week) immediately prior to your application.
If you are a subcontractor, you may be considered in this pathway if you have a related skills assessment and at least 12 months business activity in Tasmania.
Your employer has been actively operating in Tasmania for the past 12 months. There must be a genuine, ongoing need for your position within the business including a minimum 12-month contract with at least three months remaining at the time you apply for nomination.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.tas.gov.au/skilled_migration/subclass_190/nomination_pathways/tasmanian_skilled_employment_pathway
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Living onshore and working in Victoria – VIC Nomination
If you are living in Victoria and claiming annual earnings in your ROI, you must support all your claims of earnings with documents in your application.
Any earnings you are claiming must be from skilled employment in Victoria. Skilled employment includes any role that is at skill levels 1, 2 or 3 in the relevant ANZSCO.
Please refer to:https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/migrate/skilled-migration-visas/190-supporting-information
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Onshore subclass 491 applicants – VIC Nomination
To be eligible for Victorian nomination for a subclass 491 visa, you must be living and working in skilled employment in regional Victoria.
Any earnings you are claiming must be from skilled employment in regional Victoria. Skilled employment includes any role that is at skill levels 1, 2 or 3 in the relevant ANZSCO.
Your employer must have a physical presence in regional Victoria.
You must support all your claims of earnings with documents in your application.
Please refer to:https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/migrate/skilled-migration-visas/skilled-work-regional-provisional-visa-subclass-491-supporting-information
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Registration of Interest (ROI) – VIC Nomination
If you wish to be considered for selection for skilled visa nomination, you must make an EOI before submitting a Registration of Interest (ROI) for Victorian State Nomination.
The information you provide as part of your EOI with the Department of Home Affairs, will be used in the assessment of your ROI.
Please note that VIC government will not be selecting ROIs from onshore applicants living in Australian states and territories other than Victoria.
Please refer to:https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/migrate/skilled-migration-visas/190-supporting-information
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Renomination – VIC Nomination
VIC government do not provide renomination in the following instances:
You do not submit your visa application within 60 days
Your EOI was incorrect when we nominated you, including points claimed by you or your agent
If an applicant has been nominated for any skilled subclass (either subclass 190 or subclass 491), they cannot be nominated again in the same program year.
Please refer to:https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/migrate/skilled-migration-visas/190-supporting-information
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
General stream EOI – WA Nomination
Candidates eligible for the General stream will be ranked in accordance with the following:
Currently residing in Western Australia
Currently residing offshore or in another Australian state or territory
Occupations in priority WA Industry sectors (in no particular order) – building and construction, healthcare and social assistance, hospitality and tourism and education and training
Occupations in all other WA industry sectors
Highest EOI points score
Oldest EOI submission date
Please refer to:https://migration.wa.gov.au/our-services-support/state-nominated-migration-program
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
WA accredited educational institutions – WA Nomination
The applicant must confirm their enrolling educational institution is considered an accredited provider at the time of study.
Please refer to:https://migration.wa.gov.au/our-services-support/state-nominated-migration-program
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Study requirements for Graduate Stream – WA Nomination
You must be able to demonstrate that you meet the following five study components:
Gained at least one qualification in WA
Studied in WA
At an accredited WA educational institution
Full time
In a face to face learning environment (on campus study)
For a period of at least two academic years
Please refer to:https://migration.wa.gov.au/our-services-support/state-nominated-migration-program
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Qualifications for Graduate Stream – WA Nomination
You will need to have gained at least one of the following qualifications from a WA educational institution that meets the accreditation requirements at the time of your study.
A university or higher education qualification and/or
A vocational education and training (VET) qualification at a Certificate III level or above
Please refer to:https://migration.wa.gov.au/our-services-support/state-nominated-migration-program
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Contract of employment for General Stream – WA Nomination
You must have a contract of employment in your nominated (or closely related) occupation for full time employment in Western Australia, for at least six months from the date of your application for State nomination. Full time employment is defined as an average of at least 35 hours work per week.
The Contract of employment requirement is not applicable to visa 491 applicants, or applicants who are were invited through a WA building and construction industry sector occupation.
Please refer to:https://migration.wa.gov.au/our-services-support/state-nominated-migration-program
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Work experience requirement for General Stream – WA Nomination
You must have at least one year of Australian work experience in the nominated (or closely related) occupation over the last 10 years
or
You must have at least one year of overseas work experience in the nominated (or closely related) occupation over the last 10 years.
You can only count work experience gained after you received your qualification, in paid employment, where you have worked at least 20 hours per week.
The work experience requirement is not applicable to anyone invited through the General stream WASMOL schedule 2.
Please refer to:https://migration.wa.gov.au/our-services-support/state-nominated-migration-program
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One Nomination Place per Person Policy – ACT Nomination
ACT Government only offer one nomination place per person. If you are successfully nominated for a 491 or 190 visa, you cannot apply for another ACT nomination place.
Please refer to:https://www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/act-government-process
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Canberra Matrix – ACT Nomination
You can express an interest in applying for ACT nomination by completing a score-based Canberra Matrix where points can be claimed against specific criteria including skilled employment, English proficiency, formal qualifications, length of ACT residence / study, investment activity and close family ties, etc.
The Canberra Matrix is weighted to ensure that applicants who will make/have made a positive economic contribution to the Territory and/or have demonstrated a genuine commitment to the ACT are more likely to invited to apply for ACT nomination.
Please refer to:https://www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/canberra-matrix
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ACT Critical Skills List – ACT Nomination
The ACT Critical Skills List was last updated on 18 April 2023.
Please refer to:https://www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/act-critical-skills-list
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Significant Economic Benefit – ACT Nomination
You may be invited to apply for ACT nomination if we think your employment is of significant economic benefit to the Territory, and you do not meet the current eligibility criteria. You cannot request or apply for this pathway. The invitation can only be initiated by the ACT government.
Please refer to:https://www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/act-government-process
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Doctorate Streamlined Nomination – ACT Nomination
You must meet the following criteria:
Canberra resident: you are living in Canberra, and you completed a research or professional Doctoral degree at an ACT university.
Interstate / overseas applicant: you were awarded a research or professional Doctoral degree from an ACT university within the last two years.
You cannot apply under this pathway if you did not study at an ACT university.
Please refer to:https://www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/act-government-process
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Offshore – ACT Nomination
You and any dependents cannot be living in Australia (except children enrolled in an ACT school). You cannot apply for ACT nomination if you do not meet the eligibility criteria:
Subclass 491 nomination – you must have at least one year relevant experience in your nominated occupation
Subclass 190 nomination – you must have at least three years relevant experience in your nominated occupation.
Please refer to:https://www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/act-government-process
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Canberra Residents – ACT Nomination
You must be living in Canberra. You cannot apply for ACT nomination if you do not meet the criteria:
Subclass 491 nomination – you must be living and working in Canberra for at least three months.
Subclass 190 nomination – you must be living and working in Canberra for at least six months.
You cannot apply under this pathway if you are living interstate or overseas or if any dependents are living and / or working interstate.
Please refer to:https://www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/act-government-process
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Offshore – Skilled Migrants
If you are a skilled migrant currently living offshore, who has submitted an Expression of Interest using the Commonwealth Government’s SkillSelect system, you may be selected by South Australia and invited to apply for state nomination.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/skilled-migrants/nomination-options
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Highly skilled and Talented – Skilled Migrants
If you are a highly skilled migrant, who can contribute your demonstrated talent and/or support innovation in South Australia, you can register your interest in state nomination under this pathway.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/skilled-migrants/nomination-options
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South Australian Graduates – Skilled Migrants
If you are an international graduate, who has studied in South Australia, you may be eligible for state nomination as a skilled migrant faster than other candidates.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/skilled-migrants/nomination-options
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Working in South Australia – Skilled Migrants
If you are a skilled migrant, currently living in South Australia and working in your nominated occupation, you may be eligible for state nomination through this pathway.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/skilled-migrants/nomination-options
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Invitations to apply for South Australia nomination – Skilled Migrants
South Australia will consider a range of factors when determining who is invited to apply for nomination to ensure candidates are suitably prioritised. These factors include (but are not limited to):
Holding a temporary visa which will expire before 31 August 2024.
Turning 45 years of age before 31 August 2024.
Period of skilled employment experience in South Australia.
Types of skilled employment in South Australia.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/skilled-migrants/nomination-options/south-australian-graduates
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South Australia Nomination Priority Sector – Skilled Migrants
South Australia will prioritise applicants working in South Australia in a priority sector, such as Health and Medical Sciences, Trades and Construction, Early Childhood and Teaching, Digital Technology, Food and Agribusiness, Creative Industries, Tourism and Hospitality and Resources Energy.
Please refer to:https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/skilled-migrants/nomination-options/south-australian-graduates
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Small Business Owners in Regional Queensland – Subclass 491
The Small Business Owner (SBO) stream has two separate pathways available – Pathway 1 or Pathway 2.
Please refer to:https://migration.qld.gov.au/visa-options/skilled-visas/small-business-owners-operating-in-regional-queensland
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Caveats for Selected Occupations – Skilled workers living in Queensland – QLD Nomination
Accountants (General), Internal and External Auditors, Cooks and Chefs.
Please refer to:https://migration.qld.gov.au/visa-options/skilled-visas/skilled-workers-living-in-queensland
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Skilled workers living in Queensland – QLD Nomination
If you are eligible for both the 190 and the 491 visas, please submit one EOI and select both visa classes. Please do not submit multiple EOIs – if you do, Migration Queensland will select the first one in the queue and close the rest. You will be offered one invitation only.
Please refer to:https://migration.qld.gov.au/visa-options/skilled-visas/skilled-workers-living-in-queensland
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Skilled workers living in Queensland – QLD Nomination
If you have been nominated for, applied for or hold a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), Migration Queensland will not nominate you for the Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190). This restriction also applies to the Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489).
Please refer to:https://migration.qld.gov.au/visa-options/skilled-visas/skilled-workers-living-in-queensland
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Northern Territory (NT) Nomination – Eligible NT graduates
If you currently hold a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa that does not expire before 1 July 2024 or if you are eligible to apply for a subclass 485 visa, you are unlikely to be offered a nomination in this program year, and your application may be refused. If you fall into this category, please consider applying in the new program year (commencing 1 July 2024).
Please refer to:https://theterritory.com.au/migrate/migrate-to-work/northern-territory-government-visa-nomination/eligibility/additional-requirements-for-onshore-applicants
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Northern Territory (NT) Nomination – If you already live in Australia
Due to insufficient nomination allocations provided by the Australian Government for the current program year (2023-24), the NT Government is unable to accept new subclass 190 nomination applications at present. Those who meet relevant criteria will be offered a subclass 491 nomination.
Please refer to:https://theterritory.com.au/migrate/migrate-to-work/northern-territory-government-visa-nomination/eligibility
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
NSW Residency Requirements & Residing in NSW on a Tourist visa
NSW government do not consider time spent on a tourist visa.
Please refer to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/common-questions-about-skilled-visas
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Eligibility to be Nominated Again by NSW Government
You may permanently lose eligibility to be nominated again for any skilled visa.
Please refer to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/common-questions-about-skilled-visas
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
NSW Nomination Target Sectors under Pathway 2 – Subclass 491
Health, education, ICT, infrastructure and agriculture.
Please refer to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/skilled-work-regional-visa-subclass-491
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Specific EOI Requirements for NSW Nomination – Subclass 491
EOI must be exclusively for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) and seeking nomination from NSW only.
Please refer to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/skilled-work-regional-visa-subclass-491
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
NSW Nomination Target Sectors – Subclass 190
Health, education, ICT, and infrastructure.
Please refer to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/skilled-nominated-visa-subclass-190
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Specific EOI Requirements for NSW Nomination – Subclass 190
EOI must be exclusively for the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) and seeking nomination from NSW only.
Please refer to:https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/skilled-visas/skilled-nominated-visa-subclass-190
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
New Working Holiday visa arrangements for UK passport holders
UK passport holders can be granted up to three separate Working Holiday (subclass 417) visas without having to meet any specified work requirements.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-passport-holders
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
COVID-19 concession period will cease on 25 November 2023
The concession period is no longer relevant as all COVID-19 international travel restrictions have been lifted.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1147
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Systems Maintenance from 8:30 pm 24 November 2023 to 9 am 25 November 2023
Department of Home Affairs will be doing systems maintenance on some of their online systems.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1137
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Visitor visa (subclass 600) – Approved Destination Status (ADS) stream
The ADS scheme is a travel visa arrangement between the Australian and Chinese governments. This visa lets citizens of the People’s Republic of China (excluding SARs) visit Australia on a tour organised by a registered ADS scheme travel agent.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600/approved-destination-stream
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No minimum income requirement for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191).
There is no minimum income requirement.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-regional-191/regional-provisional#Overview
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Request for International Movement Records
All requests for movement records (entries & exits from Australia) should now be submitted via the web enquiry form.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/departmental-forms/online-forms/request-international-movement-records
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Global visa processing times
You can view current processing times for specific visa subclasses. You should check processing times regularly for your visa as these may change over time.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/global-processing-times
-Hope Immigration Lawyer & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Processing priorities for Family visa applications
Family visa applications are processed in line with Ministerial Direction No. 102 & 103.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/family-visa-processing-priorities
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Processing priorities for Skilled visa applications
Skilled visa applications are processed in line with Ministerial Direction No. 100.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/skilled-visa-processing-priorities
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Check visa details & conditions online
Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) allows visa holders & employers to check visa details and conditions online.
Please refer to:https://online.immi.gov.au/evo/firstParty?actionType=query
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Workplace Rights & the Assurance Protocol
If a temporary visa holder is being exploited in the workplace, they should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO). FWO has an arrangement called the Assurance Protocol. This allows temporary visa holders to seek help from the Ombudsman without fear of visa cancellation, even if they have breached their visa conditions.
Please refer to:https://www.fairwork.gov.au/find-help-for/visa-holders-migrants/visa-protections-the-assurance-protocol
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Contributory Parent Visas Processing Times
For Contributory Parent visa applications, the processing time was approximately 6 years. However, new applications may be processed in at least 12 years.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/family-visa-processing-priorities/parent-visas-queue-release-dates
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Direct pathway to Australian Citizenship application for New Zealand citizens from 1 July 2023
The Australian Government announced a direct pathway to Australian Citizenship application for New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category (subclass 444) visa (SCV) who arrived in Australia after 26 February 2001 and have been living in Australia for four years or more.
Please refer to:https://www.pm.gov.au/media/direct-pathway-australian-citizenship-new-zealanders
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Phone calls from scammers
If you have applied for a Partner (820/801 or 309/100) visa, be aware of scammers who impersonate the Department of Home Affairs officer.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1034
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Domestic and family violence provisions
If you have been a victim of domestic and family violence you may be able to be considered for the family violence provisions under migration legislation.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/domestic-family-violence-and-your-visa/family-violence-provisions
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Changes to Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa – Temporary Residence Transition Stream
From 25 November 2023 changes to the TRT stream nomination requirements are:
All streams of TSS visas will be allow to apply.
The nominated occupation will need to be listed in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
The period of time a TSS visa holder must hold their visa will be reduced to two out of the three years before nomination.
Please refer to: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1136
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Changes to Short-term stream TSS (subclass 482) visa
From 25 November 2023 the limit on the number of Short-term stream TSS visa applications that visa holders can make in Australia will be removed.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1136
-Hope Immigration Lawyer Sydney & Migration Lawyer Sydney
Expedited citizenship pathway for Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa – New Zealand stream holders
From 1 January 2023, Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa – New Zealand stream holders are eligible to apply for Australian citizenship by conferral immediately following the visa grant, without waiting until they have held this visa for 12 months.
Please refer to:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/citizenship/become-a-citizen/permanent-resident#Eligibility
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