7 changes to Australia’s Immigration effective 1 July 2023
1. Higher Income Threshold for Skilled Migration
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has increased from $53,900 to $70,000 per year. In particular, this is relevant for Employer Sponsored Visas, e.g. 482 TSS and DAMA Visa.
2. Work & Holiday Visa Makers
Papua New Guinea (PNG) has officially joined the ranks of countries participating in the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program.
The age eligibility for UK citizens applying for Subclass 417 has been extended. The previous age range of 18-30 will now include individuals up to 35 years old and will have the opportunity to stay in Australia for a total of 3 years.
3. Increase in Visa Application Charges
In accordance with the projected Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the 2023-24 period, adjustments have been made to the Visa Application Charges (VACs). Below is the summary of several highly sought-after visa subclasses:
4. Work Restrictions for all Student Visa Holders
Work limitations for all Student Visa holders have been reinstated reducing work hours to 48 hours per fortnight.
Student visa holders working in the Aged Care sector in Australia can continue to work unlimited hours until 31 December 2023.
5. New Zealand Citizens can apply directly for Australian Citizenship
New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category (subclass 444) visa and entered Australia after 26th February 2001 and have resided in Australia for a minimum of four years, will be eligible to apply directly for Australian Citizenship. No need to get PR before. This is saving money and time!
6. Extend your stay in Australia with the 485 Visa Extension program
International students who are successfully completing qualifying degrees in fields such as science, medicine, healthcare, engineering, and technology have the opportunity to extend their post-study stay in Australia.
The duration of this extended stay will be as follows:
- Bachelor degrees will increase from two years to four years.
- Master degrees will increase from three years to five years.
- Doctoral degrees will increase from four years to six years.
There are NO additional visa application charges! Plus, here’s the best part: You don’t need an English test!
7. Occupation & Skills Assessment – Graduate Work Stream
Individuals applying for the Graduate Work Stream visa are required to meet certain criteria. These include holding a qualification that is pertinent to an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and undergoing a skills assessment in the nominated occupation. BOOK A CONSULTATION TODAY
SKILLED VISA PROGRAM
The Australian Government has allocated 30,375 visa positions for the Skilled Independent program in the 2023-24 period. This substantial allocation aligns with the government’s proactive approach to meeting the increasing demands and attracting highly skilled individuals.
Notably, in the preceding fiscal year, more than 66,000 invitations were given for the Subclass 189 visa, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to prioritising and promoting skilled migration.
These initiatives provide many opportunities for professionals to make meaningful contributions towards the progress and advancement of Australia.
Interested? Schedule an appointment today! We are Immigration Lawyers and Registered Migration Agents. We have the knowledge, experience and skills to provide you with information on all Australian visa types and immigration pathways. Book your consultation here
