Australia Plans to Extend Temporary Visitor Visas | Australia Immigration Update

Prospective immigrants should be informed of the major adjustments Australia has made to its immigration and visa policies. These modifications include things like tighter financial requirements, new visa programs, and fee increases in addition to extensions of visa validity. The main changes are outlined in this blog post along with how they affect different Visa categories.

The extension of the Business Visitor Visa, the rise in the cost of applying for citizenship, the facilitation of migrant worker conditions, the inclusion of the Work Holiday Visa program, the raising of the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), the introduction of a new national visa, the suspension of the Working Holiday Visa for China, the raising of the savings requirement for student visas, and the acceptance of TOEFL test results are among the topics that are discussed.

Extension of Business Visitor Visa

For nationals of qualified nations, the duration of the Business Visitor Visa has been increased from three to five years. Applicants from nations like Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia now have the advantage of applying for multiple entry visas that are valid for an extended length of time thanks to this adjustment.

Increase in Citizenship Application Fees

Australia raised the cost of applying for citizenship for those between the ages of 18 and 59 as of July 1, 2024. The cost increased to $560 from $540. Adoption-related citizenship fees went up as well. The government’s attempt to modify expenses according to application type and unique circumstances is shown in this modification.

Easier Conditions for Migrant Workers

For some visa holders, such as those holding the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa and Subclass 457 Visa, there is now a longer grace period. Rather than the 60 days that they had before, these Visa holders now have up to 180 days to find a new sponsor or apply for another Visa.

Inclusion in the Work Holiday Visa Program

Philippine nationals are now eligible to apply for Subclass 462 of the Work and Holiday Visa Program. Through this expansion, Filipino citizens in Australia will have more opportunities for employment and cultural exchange.

Increase in Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)

The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) was raised from $70,000 to $73,000 on July 1, 2024. With this modification, temporary skilled migrants are guaranteed a wage that is competitive with the market.

Introduction of New National Visa

The Global Talent Visa and the Business Innovation and Investment Visa were superseded by Australia’s New National Innovation Visa. This new visa seeks to draw globally recognized scholars, highly skilled migrants, and successful businesspeople by offering these people a permanent route.

Suspension of Working Holiday Visa for China

The Working Holiday Visa program for citizens of China, India, and Vietnam has been halted by Australia. These citizens will now take part in bids for the visa in a lottery-style manner, introducing a random element to the application procedure.

Increase in Savings Requirement for Student Visas

The minimum savings amount for student and guardian visas was raised to 29,710 Australian dollars as of May 10, 2024. With this adjustment, which corresponds to 75% of Australia’s minimum wage, students will be guaranteed sufficient financial support throughout their stay.

TOEFL Test Results Accepted

The TOEFL test results are accepted for all Australian visa purposes as of May 5, 2024. With the reinstatement of the TOEFL as a legitimate indicator of English competence, professionals and students wishing to get Australian visas would benefit.

Conclusion

The government’s continuous efforts to strike a balance between Australia’s welcoming culture and realistic economic and social concerns are evident in these modifications to the nation’s visa and immigration policies. Prospective immigrants should remain educated and modify their preparations as necessary to successfully navigate these new requirements.