Medical graduates will no longer be able to lodge applications for temporary residency through the subclass 422 visa pathway. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) will be expected to apply for temporary residency within Australia under the subclass 457 visa program. This removal of the Subclass 422 visa is in line with the Australian Government’s deregulation agenda.
Read more:
In line with the increase to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), the high income exemption to the English language requirement will also be increased. This means that from 1 July 2010, the exemption salary amount will increase from $81 040 to $85 090. This applies in relation to all nominations lodged on or after 1 July 2010.
Read more:
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/temporary-skilled-migration-threshold.htm
Exemption to English language requirement for 457 visa program – Instrument in writing:
Increases have been made to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). The new TSMIT will be set at $47,480.00 per annum. The change will affect all nominations lodged on or after 01.07.2010.
Read more:
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/temporary-skilled-migration-threshold.htm
TSMIT Instrument in writing:
The suspension of the General Skilled Migration program has been lifted and migrants wishing to apply through this pathway can once again lodge applications. The list of occupations included in the new Skilled Occupation List (SOL) has been reduced significantly. The introduction of a new list of occupations is part of a package of reforms that reflects the Government’s commitment to a labour market demand-driven Skilled Migration Program.
The introduction of the new list will have adverse affects to many migrants current and future applications through the GSM program with skills and experience in occupations not listed on the SOL and will mean that applications for permanent residency will need to be supported by either a state government or Australian employer. It is advised that all migrants seek professional advice before making any application for permanent residency.
Read more:
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/faq-new-sol.pdf
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship has increased its fees for certain visa applications and charges from 01.07.2010.
The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, announced the list of occupations included in the new Skilled Occupation List (SOL). The introduction of a new list of occupations is part of a package of reforms that reflects the Government’s commitment to a labour market demand-driven Skilled Migration Program.
Read more:
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/factsheet-new-sol.pdf
The Australian Government has decided to temporarily suspend the acceptance of certain General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa applications. This temporary measure will begin on 8 May 2010 and is expected to remain in effect until 30 June 2010.
The temporary suspension applies only to primary (main) applicants for the following visa subclasses:
Read more:
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/factsheet-gsm-temp-spnsn.pdf
Applicants applying for a subclass 487, 885 or 886 visa will be able to lodge a valid visa application using an existing suitable skills assessment.
Read more:
http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/changes-skills-assessment.pdf
