The Department of Home Affairs is gearing up for significant enhancements to the Employer Sponsored Pathways to Permanent Residence, with changes in the pipeline for key visa subclasses. Brace yourselves for alterations in the Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) (TSS) visa and the Temporary Residence Transition stream (TRT) under the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) (ENS) and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) (RSMS) visa subclasses.
Commencement Date: November 25, 2023 (pending regulatory approval)
Who Will Be Affected by the Expansion of Employer-Sponsored Pathways?
For the TSS Visa:
– Changes will impact new applications submitted on or after November 25, 2023.
– Short-term stream TSS Visa applications can now be lodged within Australia.
– Individuals seeking a third or subsequent short-term stream TSS visa can apply from within the country.
For the TRT Stream of ENS and RSMS Visa Subclasses:
– New nomination requirements will apply to all ENS/RSMS nomination applications from November 25, 2023.
– Employers can nominate all TSS visa stream holders.
– Nominated individuals must have held their TSS visa(s) for 2 out of the last 3 years before nomination.
– RSMS visa remains restricted to transitional 457 and 482 workers.
– Nominated occupations will no longer be assessed against Skilled Migration Occupation Lists.
What are the main changes with Employer-Sponsored Pathways to Permanent Residence?
– Nominated occupation must be listed in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO).
– Age exemptions for regional medical practitioner applicants and high-income earners aged 45 years and over will be adjusted.
– TSS visa holders’ required work period with their sponsoring employer reduced to 2 out of the last 3 years before nomination.
– COVID-19 related age exemptions will cease with the implementation of the two-year pathway.
While these changes are set to broaden access to permanent residency for temporary skilled workers, it’s important to note that migration program planning levels will remain unchanged.
Need Immigration Assistance?
If you’re navigating through these changes and require expert guidance, look no further! Heenan & Browne Visa & Migration Services is here to support you every step of the way. Book an appointment today!
Stay Informed, Stay Prepared!
