In the Australian Federal budget released today, it is seen that there has been a decline in Australia’s Migration net intake since World war II.
Visa application Concessions (VAC) were introduced for Prospective Marriage, Pacific Labour Scheme, and Seasonal Worker Programme visa holders. Temporary visa holders and Visitor visa holders are also eligible for VAC and can return to Australia once the travel ban is lifted. Current visa holders who are unable to visit Australia due to current restrictions are eligible for a VAC refund.
Even though the ceiling limit set is at the same 160,000 as last year, the migration intake is expected to drop for the next 2 years. Onshore applicants are given priority. More emphasis is given to Employee Sponsored (Subclass 457, Subclass 482), Global Talent visa (Distinguished Talent visas Subclass 124, Subclass 858), Business Innovation, and Investment programs visas (Subclass 888, Subclass 132), in the skilled stream and people residing in rural areas.
As far as the family stream visas are concerned, there is an increase in 29,568 from 47,732 to 77,300. Also, mandatory English language test is required for applicants and sponsors for the family-sponsored applicants. This is introduced to help improve the interaction among community people. Also, measures are placed to reduce family violence within the partner visa applicants and sponsors.
The cap limit for nominations on the Global Talent program, Business and Investor Program is increased to 15,000 and 13,500 respectively. Although there hasn’t been much focus on the skilled work visas (Subclass 189, 190), more updates will be available in the near future.
Contact BANSAL Immigration Consultants for more information.