Last Updated on May 10, 2023
This article was originally published on 3 April 2023 and was updated on 5 May 2023 and 10 May 2023 to reflect the latest information.
10 May 2023 Update:
The government of Australia introduced the 2023-2024 migration level plan on 8 May 2023. As a result, the number of places allocated to skilled migration will increase from 137,100 to 190,000. Depending on the visa type, the government will also increase visa application charges by around 6% to 40% on 1 July 2023.
This article was originally published on 3 April 2023 and was updated on 5 May 2023 to reflect the latest information.
5 May 2023 Update:
The government of Australia introduced changes to its immigration system on 27 April 2023. These measures will include:
- Increasing the minimum income threshold from $53,900 to $70,000 for temporary skilled migration pathways.
- Introducing permanent residency pathways for all skilled temporary workers.
- Expanding regional and territorial migration pathways to meet labor market needs.
- Removing labor market testing requirements for certain temporary residence pathways for skilled workers.
- Reforming the Global Talent and Business Innovation and Investment programs.
For further information on these changes, check here.
Key Points
- Australia intends to introduce changes to its permanent and temporary immigration pathways to attract more foreign talent
Overview
The government of Australia introduced plans to reform its permanent and temporary immigration pathways over the coming years. Several proposed changes include:
- Extending post-study work rights to a period of two years for international students who have graduated from an Australian provider in the sectors of health, teaching, engineering or agriculture. Existing visa holders with an expiry date before 1 July 2023 may apply for an extension by applying for a Subclass 408 COVID-19 pandemic visa.
- Developing a new approach to identify labor shortages in the country and determining the country’s occupation lists.
- Re-evaluating the country’s point allocation system for foreign nationals seeking work permissions in the country.
What are the Changes?
The government of Australia continues to make efforts to reform the country’s immigration system. According to the government, reform efforts aim to facilitate the arrival of skilled migrants to address worker shortages and allow talented international students to stay in the country for the long term.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the government of Australia’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.
