Australia Migration Budget and Visa Reform 2024On May 14th, 2024, the Australian government unveiled its budget, which includes significant proposals affecting Australia’s immigration policy. This follows the migration strategy revealed in December 2023, highlighting major reforms to Australia’s immigration regime, particularly concerning the employer-sponsored visa program.

Over 70% of the 185,000 spots in the permanent migration program for 2024-2025 are allocated to the skill stream, covering both employer-sponsored and independent skilled permanent visas.

Australia Migration Budget

To spur economic development and restore its reputation, the Australian government has committed $18.3 million over the next four years to advance changes in the immigration system. This budget includes:

1. $15 million for programs to educate and enlighten migrant workers about their rights, employment security, and compliance with immigration requirements over the next three years.
2. $1.9 million for a pilot initiative enabling data exchange between the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Taxation Office, supported for the fiscal year 2024-2025.

Reduction to TSS Work Experience Requirement

Starting November 23, 2024, the work experience requirement for the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 Visa will be reduced from two years to one year. This change is aimed at making it easier for skilled workers to be sponsored by employers.

Permanent Migration Program

Australia Migration Budget , the government has set aside 185,000 spots for the permanent migration program for the 2024-2025 year, with 70% allocated to the skilled visa stream. Additionally, the Australian government plans to extend the planning levels for the permanent migration program from one year to four years starting in 2025-2026 as part of the continuous migration plan. This initiative aims to improve the administration and functionality of the migration system, with net overseas migration expected to decrease by 110,000 starting July 1, 2024.

Replacement of the Current Global Talent Visa

By the end of 2024, the Australian government plans to introduce a new National Innovation Visa, replacing the existing Global Talent Visa. This new visa aims to attract highly skilled immigrants who can contribute to the development of significant sectors. Applicants may request a refund of their visa application fee starting in September 2024 if they wish to withdraw their application. Additionally, the Business Innovation and Investment Visa program will come to an end.

Changes Specific to Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indian Nationals

Starting in the 2024-2025 timeframe, a ballot system will be introduced for the restricted Work and Holiday Visa program for applicants from China, Vietnam, and India. The ballot approach is designed to control program demand and expedite application processing times, with a ballot application fee of $25, increasing annually in line with the Consumer Price Index. Indian citizens will also be able to extend their visit visa stay length under the business visitor stream from three to five years, though the exact implementation date has not been announced.

New Skills in Demand Visa

One of the main points of interest in the migration strategy announced in December 2023 is the implementation of a new Skills in Demand Visa, intended to replace the current TSS Visa. However, The ballot approach is designed to control program demand and expedite application processing times, with a ballot application fee of $25, there is no information in the 2024 budget regarding when this new visa will be adopted. Jobs and Skills Australia is currently consulting on the lists of occupations that qualify for sponsorship.

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