Pathways to Permanent Residency
Our previous updates have covered several major changes to Australian visas and immigration.
A lot of further significant reforms are yet to be legislated in the coming months by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) and these may also have a significant impact on prospective migrants, both onshore and overseas.
The new skilled occupation list that underpins the employer sponsored and point-tested visa programs will be released in January 2018 and updated thereafter every six months to ensure that that they are responsive to the genuine skills need across Australia. The list may also include new caveats or “restrictions” for certain occupations for employer sponsored visas.
The March 2018 reforms will also see the introduction of the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa. This new visa program could potentially affect current 457 visa holders and those whom are seeking permanent residency based on their employment with their sponsoring business.
Hence, it is imperative for temporary visa holders and overseas prospective migrants to proactively seek their permanent visa options now ahead of the changes. They must be aware of all the pathways available for permanent residency. Further to the option of applying for an employer nominated visa, applicants may also be eligible for a permanent General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa. There is a wide range of points-tested, family-sponsored and state-sponsored skilled visa subclasses available under GSM, based on your occupation. Alternatively, you may apply for a partner visa if you are married or in a de facto relationship with an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
SCA Connect offers a free initial assessment , which can be accessed here.
You may also book a consultation to discuss your requirements with one of our experienced migration advisors.
Onshore applicants now have a chance to attend a free skilled migration seminar on 23 November 2017. To register, please click here.
