Table of Contents
- Overview
- Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) Increase
- Changes to Visa Conditions for Skilled Visas
- Working Holiday Visa Updates for UK Citizens
- Expanded Work and Holiday Visa for Philippines Citizens
- Transition to the National Innovation Visa
- Impacts of the 2024-25 Budget on Immigration
- Visa Hopping Restrictions
- Updates to the Temporary Graduate Visa Program
- Closure of the Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa
- Support for Partner Visa Applicants in Family Violence Cases
- Stronger Employer Compliance Measures
- Summary
Overview
From 1 July 2024, Australia is rolling out major immigration reforms affecting various visa categories, employers, and temporary visa holders. These changes are designed to address skill shortages, streamline visa processes, and promote fairness in the migration system. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what these updates entail and how they might affect you.
Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) Increase
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has increased from AUD 70,000 to AUD 73,150. This adjustment aims to ensure temporary skilled workers are fairly compensated while protecting the Australian labor market. Employers must adhere to this revised threshold when sponsoring workers under skilled visa programs.
Changes to Visa Conditions for Skilled Visas
Visa conditions for holders of the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482), Temporary Work (Skilled) (Subclass 457), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 494) visas have been updated to offer greater flexibility:
Visa holders now have up to 180 days at a time, or a total of 365 cumulative days, to secure new sponsorship, apply for a different visa, or arrange their departure. During this time, they can work for other employers in occupations outside their original nomination, helping them stay financially stable.
Working Holiday Visa Updates for UK Citizens
UK citizens can now enjoy expanded opportunities under the Working Holiday Visa program. Key changes include an increased age eligibility range from 30 to 35 years and the removal of the ‘specified work’ requirement, eliminating the need for work in regional areas (such as fruit picking) for subsequent visa applications. These changes are expected to encourage greater cultural exchange and attract more UK visitors to Australia.
Expanded Work and Holiday Visa for Philippines Citizens
Citizens of the Philippines, aged 18-30, are now eligible for the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa. This visa allows them to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. Eligibility requirements include a tertiary qualification, or completion of at least two years of undergraduate education. This expansion strengthens ties between Australia and the Philippines while broadening cultural exchange opportunities.
Transition to the National Innovation Visa
The Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) has been replaced by the National Innovation Visa, reflecting Australia’s focus on fostering innovation and attracting top-tier entrepreneurs. The new visa promises a streamlined application process and enhanced support for innovative business ventures.
Impacts of the 2024-25 Budget on Immigration
The 2024-25 federal budget has introduced several key changes: The Permanent Migration Program cap has been set at 185,000 places, with 132,200 allocated to the Skill stream. These measures align with the government’s strategy to address long-term skill shortages and boost Australia’s workforce.
Visa Hopping Restrictions
To address concerns about ‘visa hopping’, new measures now restrict certain temporary visa holders (e.g., Temporary Graduate and Visitor visa holders) from applying for a student visa while in Australia. Genuine students are required to apply from offshore, encouraging clear pathways to permanent residency or skilled employment.
Updates to the Temporary Graduate Visa Program
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) program has undergone significant changes, including renaming the Graduate Work Stream to Post-Vocational Education Work Stream, with an age cap of 35 years. The Post-Higher Education Work Stream age cap is also set at 35 years, except for Masters (Research) and PhD graduates, who can apply up to 50 years. The Replacement Stream has been discontinued. These updates aim to align with Australia’s evolving economic and skills landscape.
Closure of the Skilled-Recognised Graduate Visa
The Skilled-Recognised Graduate (Subclass 476) visa is now permanently closed. This visa previously catered to engineering graduates from select institutions. Its closure reflects a focus on other skilled migration pathways.
Support for Partner Visa Applicants in Family Violence Cases
New provisions under the Migration Amendment (Family Violence Provisions for Partner Visa Applicants) Regulations 2024 offer greater support for applicants experiencing family violence. Partner visa applicants can now access permanent residency (Subclass 191) even if their relationship ends. Prospective Marriage (Subclass 300) visa holders can apply for a Partner visa without being married. The requirement for applicants to be in Australia when a decision is made has been removed for Subclass 309 visas. These changes enhance protections for vulnerable individuals, allowing them to build safe and stable lives in Australia.
Stronger Employer Compliance Measures
The Migration Amendment (Infringement Notices) Regulations 2024 introduces tougher penalties for employers who breach migration laws. Highlights include increased penalties for civil violations, removal of reduced penalties for first-time contraventions, and standardised penalty amounts to ensure consistency. These measures aim to strengthen employer accountability and safeguard the integrity of Australia’s migration system.
Summary
The immigration updates effective from 1 July 2024 bring significant changes across various visa categories. From increased income thresholds and greater flexibility for skilled workers to expanded opportunities for international cultural exchange, these reforms reflect Australia’s commitment to fostering innovation, addressing skill shortages, and protecting the rights of all stakeholders. For more detailed information on these updates, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent.
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