The landscape of Australia’s migration system is evolving. In a recent announcement, the Australian Government revealed transformative changes designed to make the path to permanent residence more straightforward for Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders, especially those under the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (subclass 186) visas.
These changes, which come into effect on 25 November 2023, will apply to new Subclass 482 visa applications submitted from this date and to new Subclass 186 and 187 nomination applications that are still pending as of 25 November 2023.
A Closer Look at the Changes 1. TSS Visa (Subclass 482) Changes:
Applications Lodging in Australia: Now, all short-term stream TSS visa applications can be made within Australia.
Removal of Limitations: The limitations on the number of short-term streams TSS applications that visa holders in Australia can submit will no longer be in place.
Third Applications: Short-term stream TSS visa holders with visas expiring before 25 November 2023 must travel outside Australia to lodge a third short-term stream TSS application.
2. ENS (Subclass 186) TRT Stream Nomination Changes:
Wider Nomination Eligibility: Employers can now nominate holders of all TSS visa streams, including Short-term and Labour Agreement streams, for permanent residency.
Reduced Timeframe: Visa applicants only need to have held their Subclass 482 (or Subclass 457) visa(s) for 2 out of the last three years before nomination.
Work Requirement: Applicants must have worked in their position with the sponsoring employer for 2 out of the last three years before nomination.
Occupation Listing: While nominated occupations will no longer be compared to a skilled occupation list, they must align with the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
3. ENS (Subclass 186) TRT Stream Visa Application Changes:
Age Exemption Modifications: Age exemptions for regional medical practitioner candidates and high-earning individuals aged 45 and over have been modified, resulting in a streamlined two-year pathway.
COVID-19 Age Exemptions: Exemptions related to COVID-19 age considerations will be phased out due to the implementation of the new two-year pathway.
These modifications mark a significant enhancement in making Australia a more attractive and feasible destination for skilled professionals seeking long-term residence.
Your Path Forward
With such substantial transformations on the horizon, it's essential to be well-informed and adequately prepared. Whether you're a potential visa applicant, an employer, or someone exploring the path to permanent residency, now is a critical time to consider your options and strategy.
Having been in the field for over 15 years, our team at Migration Buro has the expertise and experience to guide you seamlessly through these changes, ensuring a smooth transition and optimal outcomes.
Don’t embark on this journey without expert guidance. Reach out to us, and let's build your future in Australia together.
Take Action Now Your future in Australia awaits. Ensure you're on the right path. Please email us at info@migrationburo.com.au and secure your consultation. Navigate these changes with confidence and clarity with MigrationBuro by your side.