Changes

10 May 2017
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2017-18 Budget Announcement and Immigration Changes

Sticky Post By On May 10, 2017

Yesterday, the government announced the Budget for 2017-18 and some of the changes will directly affect the current immigration program.

Increase of the Visa Application changes (VAC)

From 01 July 2017, Visa application fees will increase in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Check the full list of VAC increases here. Read more

19 Apr 2017
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Replacement of temporary work visa 457: Understanding the Changes

Sticky Post By On April 19, 2017

On 18 April 2017, the Government announced the abolishment of the Temporary 457 Work (Skilled) visa and replacement with a new Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa in March 2018.

This new visa is part of the Government’s strategy to focus temporary and permanent employer sponsored skilled migration on skills shortages and gaps.

Immediate changes (from 19 April 2017)

  • 216 occupations were removed from the Consolidated Sponsored Occupation list (CSOL). The list was also renamed to Short-term Skilled Occupations List (STSOL). The maximum duration for 457 visas issued for occupations on this list will be 2 years. The STSOL will be updated every 6 months based on advice from the Department of Employment.
  • The Skilled Occupations List (SOL) was renamed the new Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). The maximum duration for 457 visas issued for occupations on this list remains 4 years.

Read more

24 Apr 2015
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Changes to English requirements for 457 visa subclass

Sticky Post By On April 24, 2015

On the 18th of April 2015, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection lowered the English requirements for the temporary work visa (skilled) – subclass 457. Good news for candidates planning to apply for this visa category.

According to the amendment, candidates are now required to obtain a 5.0 overall score on IELTS and a minimum of 4.5 on each band to meet the 457 visa subclass requirements. Changes affect all new applications lodged on or after 18 April 2015. Read more