1. Higher Income Threshold for Skilled Migration
The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) has been increased to $70,000.
2. Work & Holiday Makers
As of 1 July 2023, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has become the newest participant in the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program.
The age limit for the Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa for applicants from the United Kingdom has been extended from 30 to 35 years old.
3. Increase in Visa Fees
Visa application charges (VACs) have also been adjusted in line with the 2023-24 forecast CPI. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular subclasses:
4. Direct Australian citizenship for New Zealand citizens
Starting from 1 July 2023, New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category (subclass 444) visa who arrived in Australia after 26 February 2001, and have lived in Australia for four years or more will be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship directly.
5. Work Restrictions for Student Visa Holders
From 1 July 2023, work restrictions have been reinstated for student visa holders, limiting their work hours to 48 hours per fortnight. However, there is an exception to this rule.
6. Extended Stay for Subclass 485 Visa Holders
International students who complete eligible qualifications in areas such as science, medicine, healthcare, engineering, and technology will have their post-study stay extended. The duration of stay will increase from:
- ♾️two years to four years for Bachelor degrees
- ♾️three years to five years for Masters degrees
- ♾️four years to six years for all Doctoral degrees
7. Occupation & Skills Assessment – Graduate Work Stream
For Graduate Work stream visa applications lodged from 1st July 2023, applicants must hold a qualification relevant to an occupation on the MLTSSL list and undergo a skills assessment in the nominated occupation.
Source: Anzscosearch