The article covers significant changes to Australia’s immigration laws in 2023, impacting various visas. It previews key adjustments expected in 2024, including the Pacific Engagement Visa and changes to age limits for certain visas, all aimed at enhancing the country’s economy and immigration system.
Important Revisions to Australian Immigration Law in 2023
In 2023, Australia made significant changes to its immigration laws, impacting various visa categories.
In this update, we will provide an overview of eight key changes that affected visas from September to December 2023.
1. ACT Invitation Round – November 2023
On November 27, 2023, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) conducted its invitation round.
During this round, they invited individuals for various visa categories, including small business owners, 457 and 482 Visa holders, critical skill professionals, and foreign candidates for critical skill occupations.
The next invitation round is scheduled before February 5, 2024.
2. New South Wales Enhanced Pathways for Nominations
New South Wales (NSW) introduced improved pathways for nominations and modernized procedures for the Skilled Work Regional Visa.
These changes focus on two primary pathways: invitation by investment (Pathway 2) and direct application (Pathway 1).
The government plans to issue invitations for Pathway 2 shortly after commencing direct applications under Pathway 1.
3. Tasmania Nomination and Processing Time
In Tasmania, approximately thirty people are invited each week based on registrations of interest.
Only the most outstanding candidates are selected for nomination.
Out of the 600 seats allocated for the skilled nomination visa, 286 have been filled, and 206 nominations for the skilled regional work visa have been approved.
4. 11 New Occupations Added by Northern Territory DAMA
The Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) extended its eligibility by adding 11 new occupations.
This extension is effective until December 24, 2024, bringing the total number of eligible occupations to 135.
Foreign workers who have worked in the Northern Territory for two years in a full-time job can now be nominated for permanent Subclass 186 visas.
Additionally, the salary requirement for temporary skilled migration has been reduced to $55,000 for several occupations.
5. Nominations for Skilled Work Regional Subclass 490 Visa
The Northern Territory government released information regarding nominations and applications for the Regional Subclass 490 Visa for skilled employment for the 2023–2024 year, starting on October 23, 2023.
Notable changes include the exclusion of Northern Territory graduates, the Limited offshore priority occupation stream, and the work requirement for residents of the Northern Territory.
6. South Australia Skilled Migration Program
The Skilled Migration State Nomination program in South Australia for the year 2023–2024 brings several improvements compared to the previous fiscal year.
In order to efficiently handle the large number of applications received, South Australia has introduced a Registration of Interest mechanism, given the limited number of available nominations.
A crucial focus area is ensuring the retention of international graduates and temporary visa holders in South Australia.
7. New South Wales Focus on Priority Sectors
For the financial year 2023–2024, New South Wales is placing a strong emphasis on Priority Industries when it comes to skilled job lists.
These priority sectors include agriculture, infrastructure, health, education, and information and communication technology (ICT).
While the Australian government is prioritizing key industries, they may also consider highly ranked Expressions of Interest (EOIs) in non-priority sectors based on labor needs.
8. New Australia PR Pathway for 457 and 482 Visa Holders
This update encompasses the main changes to immigration legislation and the fourth report for November on recent alterations to Australian immigration law.
The Australian government has implemented significant changes to the 1994 Migration Law, effective from November 25, 2023.
Individuals holding Subclass 457 and Subclass 482 visas should pay special attention to these developments as they could have a direct impact on their immigration status.
Changes to Australia Visa from January 2024
Australia is making some important changes to its visa rules in 2024 to help regional economies and make it easier for people to work in the country.
Here are the key changes:
1. Pacific Engagement Visa (PAV) Starting from January 1, 2024, Australia will introduce the Pacific Engagement Visa. This visa is for skilled workers from the Pacific Islands. It’s a temporary visa, but each year, 3,000 people from the Pacific Islands can get permanent residency through this program.
2. No Age Limit for Working Holiday Visas Beginning on January 31, 2024, the age limit for the Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) will be raised to 35 years old for eligible applicants from certain countries. This change is part of a trade agreement with the United Kingdom.
3. Age Requirement for Regional Skilled Visas From July 1, 2024, there will be no more age exemptions for applicants applying for Regional Skilled Visas (Subclass 491). To be eligible, you must be under 45 years old when you receive an invitation.
4. Regional Visas for High-Income Applicants Starting from July 1, 2024, Australia will offer more regional visas to people with high incomes. This is to attract highly skilled professionals to regional areas.
5. Changes to Skilled Migration Occupation Lists In 2024, Australia will review and update its skilled migration occupation lists to match current industry needs. This is part of an ongoing effort to modernize immigration laws and improve the country’s workforce.
In 2023, Australia made significant changes to its immigration laws, including updates to skilled occupation lists and improvements in nomination pathways.
In 2024, more changes are coming, with the aim of boosting the economy and making Australia an even more attractive destination for immigrants.
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