Australia’s Skilled Migration Shake-Up: Changes for Skilled Workers

482 Visa Work Experience Requirement: Delay in Implementation

Announcement and Delay:
The Australian Government announced plans to reduce the work experience requirement for the TSS (subclass 482) visa from two years to one year, effective 23 November 2024. However, the required legislative instrument to formalise this change has not yet been issued.

Legislative Requirements:
To implement the change, amendments are needed to regulations 482.221, 482.231, and 482.242. As of now, these amendments are still pending.

Potential Connection to SID Visa:
The delay may be linked to the anticipated launch of the Skills in Demand (SID) visa, which will also require one year of work experience. The Department of Home Affairs has indicated that the SID visa is expected to be released before the end of 2024 but has not confirmed a specific date.

Advice for Applicants:

• Alternative Options: Applicants should consider other visa pathways or wait for formal updates on the TSS visa changes.
• SID Visa Consideration: The upcoming SID visa may offer a viable alternative for those seeking skilled work opportunities in Australia.

Skilled Migration: Key Updates from the Department of Home Affairs

1. New Visa Programs: Progress and Timelines

• Skills in Demand (SID) Visa: No official start date has been confirmed, but preparatory materials, such as fact sheets, are in development.
• National Innovation Visa: Similarly, this visa is still pending a launch date, with further details expected soon.

2. Global Talent Visa Program:

• Applications already lodged and those with invitations are being processed as usual.
• Expressions of Interest (EOIs) without invitations may be redirected to the forthcoming National Innovation Visa.

3. Surge in Visa Applications and Processing Delays:

• Visa lodgements have increased by 70% compared to last year, causing delays in processing times.
• The Department is addressing the backlog through recruitment efforts and increased overtime, resulting in a 28% rise in finalised cases.

4. Emphasis on Decision-Ready Applications:

• Applications lacking required documentation are contributing to delays.
• The Department is implementing training and outreach programs to assist businesses and applicants in submitting stronger, more complete applications.

Conclusion: Staying Prepared Amid Changing Visa Policies

While the reduction in TSS visa work experience remains delayed, significant developments in Australia’s skilled migration framework are on the horizon. Employers and applicants should remain vigilant, explore alternative pathways, and ensure their applications are complete and decision-ready to navigate the evolving immigration landscape effectively.