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Visa & Immigration Update | Employer Sponsored Permanent Residence in Australia
In addition to the 457 changes recently announced by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, the Permanent Employer Sponsored Skilled Migration Programme will also undergo a number of changes. The 457 visa has historically been a pathway to Australian Permanent Residence under this programme. These changes seek to better align the permanent and temporary programmes.
Applications which were lodged prior to 19 April 2017 will not be impacted by these changes.
From 19 April 2017
- Applicants under the Direct Entry Stream will only be eligible to apply if their nominated occupation is on the MLTSSL or STSOL
- Applicants under the Temporary Residence Transition Stream can still apply as usual (even if their nominated occupation is no longer on the STSOL or MLTSSL)
From 1 July 2017
- Occupation lists: The STSOL and MLTSSL will be further reviewed based on advice from the Department of Employment and Department of Education and Training
- English language requirements: A score of IELTS 6 in each component will be required (or equivalent test)
- Age: Applicants under the Direct Entry Stream must be under the maximum age requirement of 45 at the time of application. The maximum age requirement of 50 at the time of application will continue to apply to applicants under the Temporary Residence Transition Stream
From March 2018
- Occupation lists: The MLTSSL will now only apply, with additional occupations available to support regional employers for the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme
- Salary: Employers must pay the Australian market salary rate and meet the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold
- Residency: The eligibility period will extended from 2 years to 3 years
- Work experience: At least 3 years relevant work experience will be required
- Age: All applicants (under both the Temporary Residence Transition Stream and Direct Entry Stream) must be under the maximum age requirement of 45 at the time of application
- Training requirement: Strengthened training requirement for employers to contribute towards training Australian workers
Who is affected?
We expect further details and clarifications to be announced by the Government over the coming weeks including in the Federal Budget.
|
Individuals who were preparing an application under the Direct Entry Stream and their occupation has now been removed |
No longer eligible under the Direct Entry Stream |
| Individuals turning 45 years old | From 1 July 2017, applicants under the Direct Entry Stream must be under 45 years at time of application From March 2018, all applicants must be under 45 years at time of application |
| Individuals whose occupation is no longer on the MLTSSL or STSOL | Review eligibility to apply under the Temporary Residence Transition Stream before March 2018 |
| Individuals whose occupation is on the STSOL | From March 2018, occupations must be on the MLTSSL |
|
Individuals with applications lodged prior to 19 April 2017 |
No impact |
| Individuals who were preparingapplications under the Temporary Residence Transition Stream | Minimal impact if lodged before March 2018 (although new English language requirement may apply from 1 July 2017) |
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute legal advice. For more detailed and case specific information or advice, please contact the visa team at SIRVA Relocation on +61 3 8696 3400 or visainbox@sirva.com.au.
[Maria Hrambanis LLB BCom, Manager - Visa & Immigration (MARN 1067049)]