The Australian immigration system is constantly evolving with new policy changes, processing time fluctuations, and population shifts. This article will provide a comprehensive update on several key developments in recent weeks that impact immigration programs and applicants. From 482 visa reforms to the latest processing time figures, read on for all the vital details.
482 Visa Changes Coming November 2022
On November 25th, 2022, the Australian government will be implementing changes to the 482 and 186 visa laws. The amendments intend to offer a simpler and more straightforward pathway to permanent residency for Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders.
According to the Department of Home Affairs’ announcement, the 482 visa modifications will give employers and TSS visa holders increased certainty and help Australia attract and retain skilled workers.
Here are the main 482 visa changes to know:
- Removing the limit on how many short-term stream TSS visa applications a holder can submit while remaining in Australia. Before November 25th, applicants are restricted to just 2 onshore lodgements.
- Allowing employers to nominate any TSS visa stream holder, including short-term and labour agreements, for the 186 visa Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream.
- Reducing the TSS visa tenure required before 186 TRT nomination eligibility from 3 years to just 2 out of the preceding 3 years.
- Updating age requirements for 186 Direct Entry stream applicants such as regional doctors and high income earners over 45 to allow a 2-year transition period.
The reforms intend to take effect for applications not finally decided as of November 25, 2022. However, short-term TSS holders will need to depart Australia to lodge a 3rd visa if expiring before the changes commence.
Latest Visa Processing Time Updates
The Department of Home Affairs routinely provides updated global visa processing time information. The latest November 2022 figures reveal fluctuations across various visa categories:
- Skilled Independent 189 visa: 10 months, increased from 8 months
- Skilled Nominated 190 visa: 9 months, decreased from 11 months
- Partner 309 visa: 23 months, down from 27 months
- Skilled Regional 489 visa: 49 months, up from 47 months
- Skilled Work Regional 491 visa: 22 months, increased from 20 months
- Skilled Employer Nominated 186 visa: 11-12 months, stable from last report
While some visa types like the 190 and 309 have seen decreases, most processing times remain lengthy. Applicants should factor the timeframes into plans and seek ways to expedite applications where possible.
Minister Announces Northern Territory DHARMA Extension
On October 31st, 2022, Immigration Minister Andrew Giles announced a 1-year extension to the Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA).
The key features of the renewed agreement include:
- Provision for 625 additional visas for new migrant workers in needed occupations
- Expanded permanent residency pathways for existing visa holders
- Increasing the eligible jobs like healthcare, trades, and hospitality roles
- Making it easier for NT employers to sponsor workers
- Opening access for more occupations such as teachers and IT professionals
- Relaxing requirements to help address critical workforce shortages
The DAMA extension intends to deliver more workers to fill NT’s labor gaps and allow greater access to permanent residency. The agreement demonstrates the government’s willingness to utilize regional migration agreements to meet local needs.
New Population Data Shows Overseas Born Groups
On October 31st, 2022, the Australian Bureau of Statistics released its annual country of birth population report. As of June 2022 key insights include:
- Australia’s estimated population was 26 million residents.
- 18.3 million residents were Australia-born while 7.7 million were overseas-born.
- The largest overseas-born populations were from England, India, China, and New Zealand.
- In 2022, the English-born group remained the largest at 961,000 people.
- Indian-born was 2nd largest at 754,000, surpassing its 2013 peak.
- Chinese-born was 3rd largest at 597,000 but decreased from its 2019 peak.
- NZ-born hit a new high of 586,000 people, ranking 4th amongst overseas-born groups.
The data demonstrates Australia’s cultural diversity and the fluctuating migration trends amongst populations. As immigration policy and global factors evolve, the country of birth makeup will continue shifting in the years ahead.
Conclusion
From sweeping 482 visa reforms to the latest processing time figures, immigration news changes rapidly. This article has provided a comprehensive update on several key policy and population developments that impact immigration programs.
By staying current on the essential news, applicants and employers can make informed decisions and strategize their visa pathways accordingly. With additional changes surely on the horizon, it’s important to monitor news and seek expert guidance when navigating Australia’s complex immigration system
