Student Information

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is a crucial component of the Australian student visa application process. Introduced in 2011, it assesses whether applicants genuinely intend to study temporarily in Australia and return home after completing their studies. In this post, we will deeply dive into GTE criteria, offering comprehensive insights and practical strategies to craft a compelling application. So, let’s get into it. Understanding the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) The GTE ensures that student visa applicants genuinely aim to study in Australia without long-term migration intentions. It evaluates personal circumstances, educational goals, and ties to the applicant’s home country. By fulfilling this requirement, applicants prove they align with Australia’s immigration policies while maintaining the integrity of the education sector. Key Factors Considered in GTE Assessment 1. Personal Circumstances in the Home Country Your home country’s situation can significantly influence your application. Immigration officers examine: 2. Circumstances in Australia Your intended course and institution should align with your educational and professional goals. Evidence of: 3. Future Career Goals Explain how your studies will: 4. Immigration History A transparent immigration history strengthens your case. Prior non-compliance with visa conditions or unexplained travel patterns may affect your GTE assessment. How to Write a Convincing GTE Statement The GTE statement is your chance to convey authenticity. Explain Why You Chose Australia Australia’s globally recognised education system, diverse culture, and student-friendly policies make it an attractive destination. Highlight these benefits in your statement while linking them to your career objectives. Link Your Course to Your Career Goals Describe how your selected course and institution will help you achieve specific career outcomes. Provide examples of how these skills will benefit your home country. Highlight Ties to Your Home Country Demonstrate your intent to return through strong connections like family, job offers, or community roles. Back Up Financial Stability Showcase your capacity to manage costs by providing evidence of tuition payments, savings, or scholarships. Maintain Transparency Clearly document your immigration history, including previous visas and travel purposes, to avoid any doubts. Avoiding Common Mistakes Overgeneralising Statements Avoid vague claims like “I love Australia” or “I want a good education.” Instead, personalise your reasons for choosing the country and course. Failing to Provide Evidence Every claim in your GTE must be backed with documents such as academic records, financial statements, or employment letters. Ignoring Professional Help For complex cases, consult migration experts or education counsellors who can guide you through the process. Why the GTE Requirement Matters? The GTE requirement ensures Australia’s student visa system is not misused. By submitting a well-prepared application, you not only meet visa criteria but also demonstrate integrity and commitment to your educational goals. A clear and honest GTE statement increases your chances of approval, making your path to studying in Australia smoother. Final Tips for Meeting the GTE Criteria The GTE is not just a requirement—it is your opportunity to showcase your sincerity and readiness for an enriching academic journey in Australia. By understanding the expectations and preparing thoroughly, you can meet this criterion confidently.

If you’re considering working in Australia under an employer-sponsored visa, meeting the English language requirements is important. Australia emphasizes English proficiency to ensure workers can communicate effectively in the workplace and adapt to life in the country. In this article, we’ll explore the English language requirements for the key employer-sponsored visas: the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (subclass 482), the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) Visa (subclass 494), and the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (subclass 186). These requirements vary depending on the visa stream and can be met through several accepted English tests, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and CAE. English Language Requirements for Australia’s Employer-Sponsored Visas This guide highlights the specific English proficiency requirements for the most common employer-sponsored visas. These requirements can be met through various recognized English tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and CAE. Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa – Subclass 482 The TSS visa allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled workers for temporary positions. Depending on the visa stream (Short-term, Medium-term, or Labour Agreement), applicants must meet specific English language test scores. Also, please check the new changes made for the subclass 482 TSS visa. English Language Test Scores for TSS Visa (Subclass 482) Visa Stream IELTS (General/Academic) PTE Academic TOEFL iBT CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced) Short-term stream Overall 5.0 (min 4.5 each) Overall 36 (min 30) Overall 35 (min 3 each) Overall 154 (min 147 each) Medium-term stream Overall 5.0 (min 5.0 each) Overall 36 (min 36) Overall 35 (min 4 each) Overall 154 (min 154 each) Example: If you’re applying under the Short-term stream, you can take the IELTS with a score of 5.0 overall and a minimum of 4.5 in each section. Alternatively, you could take the PTE Academic, where you’ll need an overall score of 36 with a minimum of 30 in each component. Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) Visa – Subclass 494 The SESR visa is aimed at addressing labor shortages in regional Australia, offering a pathway to permanent residency. As a longer-term visa, its English requirements are higher compared to the TSS visa. Accepted English Tests for SESR Visa (Subclass 494) For the SESR Visa, applicants must demonstrate Competent English. The minimum required test scores are: Test Type Minimum Required Score IELTS Overall 6.0 (min 6.0 each) PTE Academic Overall 50 (min 50 each) TOEFL iBT Minimum 12 in listening, 21 in writing, 13 in reading, and 18 in speaking CAE Overall 169 (min 169 each) Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa – Subclass 186 The ENS visa is a direct route to permanent residency and requires workers to show a higher level of English proficiency. The language requirements here mirror those for the SESR visa, as this visa typically leads to long-term settlement in Australia. This visa has three different streams, depending on your situation: English Proficiency Requirements for ENS Visa The same “Competent English” standard applies, and you can meet it through any of the following test scores: Test Type Minimum Required Score IELTS Overall 6.0 (min 6.0 each) PTE Academic Overall 50 (min 50 each) TOEFL iBT Minimum 12 in listening, 21 in writing, 13 in reading, and 18 in speaking CAE Overall 169 (min 169 each) Exemptions from English Testing In some cases, applicants are exempt from the English language testing requirements. You may qualify for an exemption if: Conclusion It’s really important to meet the English language requirements for your visa to make sure your application goes smoothly. Choose the English test that suits you best, whether it’s IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or CAE, and aim to get the scores you need. Preparing well in advance will make the whole visa process easier and boost your chances of landing a job in Australia.

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering high-quality education, diverse cultural experiences, and promising career opportunities. However, choosing the right university in Australia as an international student can be a challenging task, given the wide range of options available. Making an informed decision involves considering various factors such as course offerings, university rankings, campus facilities, visa requirements, and location. In this guide, we’ll dive into the most important aspects you should consider when choosing the right university in Australia for international students. We’ll focus on practical advice and key information to help you make the best choice for your educational and professional future. 1. Understand Your Field of Study and Career Goals Your choice of university should be closely aligned with your academic interests and long-term career goals. Australia offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines, so it’s crucial to: Steps to Choose the Right Course Actions Research universities specialising in your field Use rankings and reviews to find top institutions for your chosen discipline. Investigate research programs and partnerships Look for universities with strong research programs or industry partnerships. Check post-graduation employment rates Choose universities that have high employability rates and strong industry connections. Pro tip: Use platforms like QS World University Rankings by Subject to find which Australian universities rank highly in your preferred field. 2. University Reputation and Ranking While rankings aren’t everything, they do provide a good starting point. When evaluating universities, consider: Global Rankings Check global rankings like QS, Times Higher Education (THE), and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). These rankings can give you an idea of a university’s international reputation. Specialised Rankings Some universities excel in specific areas of study but may not have a high overall ranking. Ensure you check subject-specific rankings to see how your course fares. Graduate Employability Look for universities with high employability scores, as these institutions tend to have strong links with industry, giving students an edge in the job market. 3. Location and Lifestyle Considerations Australia’s major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth each offer unique living environments. When choosing the right university, consider: 4. Tuition Fees and Scholarships Make sure to compare tuition fees and explore the various scholarship options each university offers to reduce financial strain. As an international student, tuition fees can be one of the biggest financial commitments. It’s essential to: University Average Annual Tuition Fee (AUD) Scholarship options University of Sydney $37,000 – $45,000 (may vary) Merit-based, need-based, international student scholarships University of Melbourne $39,000 – $45,000 (may vary) Various scholarships for international students University of Adelaide $30,000 – $37,000 (may vary) Destination Australia scholarships, need-based scholarships University of Queensland $34,000 – $42,000 (may vary) International student scholarships, merit-based awards 5. Campus Facilities and Support Services The campus facilities and support services at a university can greatly affect your experience as an international student in Australia. When you’re away from home, having access to the right resources can make all the difference in helping you feel comfortable and succeed in your studies. First, let’s talk about academic facilities. Look for universities that have modern classrooms and well-equipped laboratories. If you’re studying in fields like science, engineering, or healthcare, it’s important to have access to the latest technology and equipment. Good libraries are also a must-have; they should have a wide range of books, journals, and online resources to support your research and assignments. A 24/7 library can be a lifesaver, especially during exam times, as it gives you the flexibility to study whenever you need to. Next, consider the student support services offered by the university. This includes academic tutoring, which can help you if you’re struggling with a subject or just want to improve your grades. Mental health services are equally important; universities that provide counselling and mental health support can help you manage stress and adjust to life in a new country. Many institutions also offer career counselling services that guide you on job opportunities, internships, and how to prepare for the workforce after you graduate. Make sure the university has offices that can assist with visa issues and financial aid, as these aspects are vital for your journey as an international student. One valuable resource you should look for is the International Student Office. Universities with dedicated staff for international students often offer tailored support. These offices can help you with finding accommodation, understanding your visa options, and settling into life in Australia. Having a point of contact who understands your unique needs makes the transition smoother and less overwhelming. They often run orientation programs that introduce you to the campus and the local culture, which can be a great way to make friends and feel at home. In addition to academic and support facilities, check out the social and recreational options available on campus. Universities that provide good sports facilities, gyms, and clubs make it easier for you to stay active and meet new people. Joining clubs or participating in events can help you connect with both local and other international students, which can be incredibly helpful in building your social circle and making friends. 6. Work-Study Opportunities Australia allows international students to work part-time while studying, but some universities have better industry connections and internship programs than others. When researching, consider: 7. Accreditation and Course Recognition Choosing a course that is recognised in Australia and internationally is essential, especially if you plan to work abroad after you graduate. Here are some key points to consider: Professional Accreditation Some courses, like engineering, medicine, and accounting, need to be accredited by specific professional bodies. Make sure the university’s course has the right accreditation from relevant Australian or international organisations. This ensures that your qualification meets industry standards and is valued by employers. International Recognition Look into whether your degree will be recognised by employers or other educational institutions in other countries. If you plan to work outside of Australia, it’s crucial to ensure that your qualification will be accepted in

Applying for a student visa in Australia is an exciting yet complicated process that requires careful attention to detail. Many students make avoidable mistakes that can lead to application delays or denials. In this guide, we will guide you how to navigate the application process effectively and avoid common pitfalls. So, let’s get started. 1. Understand the Visa Requirements Know Your Visa Type The subclass 500 student visa is specifically designed for international students. It’s important to familiarize yourself with its requirements. The primary criteria include: Understanding these requirements can save you time and stress later in the application process. 2. Gather Accurate Documentation Essential Documents Checklist A successful application hinges on accurate and complete documentation. Make sure to include: Double-check each document for accuracy and ensure they are up-to-date to avoid delays. 3. Be Honest in Your Application The Importance of Integrity Providing false or misleading information is one of the most significant mistakes you can make. The consequences are severe, ranging from application rejection to being banned from future applications. Always ensure that the information you submit accurately represents your situation. If you have any doubts, consider seeking professional assistance to clarify your position. 4. Apply Early The Advantages of Early Application Processing times for student visas can vary greatly depending on various factors, including the time of year. To avoid last-minute stress: 5. Use Professional Assistance if Needed When to Seek Help Navigating the visa application process can be complex. If you find it overwhelming or if English is not your first language, consider hiring a registered migration agent. They can provide invaluable guidance, helping you: Using professional services can often save time and increase your chances of a successful application. 6. Check for Updates Regularly Staying Informed Visa regulations can change frequently. Regularly check the Department of Home Affairs website for updates on: Staying informed will help you prepare for any changes that could affect your visa application. 7. Prepare for an Interview Tips for Success In some cases, you may be required to attend a visa interview. Preparation is key: 8. Maintain Open Communication Keeping Channels Open Throughout the application process, maintain open lines of communication with the Department of Home Affairs. If you receive any requests for additional information or documentation: 9. Learn from Others Seek Advice from Previous Applicants Talking to other international students who have successfully navigated the visa application process can provide you with valuable insights and tips. They can share their experiences, including: Conclusion By understanding the requirements, gathering accurate documentation, and maintaining honesty throughout the process, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful student visa application in Australia. Stay organized, seek help when needed, and don’t hesitate to prepare thoroughly. Good luck as you embark on your educational journey in Australia!

Australia has announced important changes to its migration system, targeting what’s called “visa hopping”. These changes, set to start from 1 July 2024, will affect temporary visa holders who try to extend their stay by repeatedly applying for new visas. If you’re planning to study in Australia, this update will change how you apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500). What’s Changing? From 1 July 2024, if you hold certain temporary visas, you will no longer be able to apply for a student visa while you’re still in Australia. This includes: If you’re on any of these visas and want to apply for a student visa, you will have to do it from outside Australia. Who Isn’t Affected? The good news is, not all temporary visa holders are impacted. If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) or Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462), you’re still able to apply for a student visa while in Australia. What Should You Do if You’re Affected? If you’re currently on one of the affected visas and you want to study in Australia, here’s what you need to know: Why Is Australia Making This Change? The Australian Government is tightening these rules to stop “permanent temporariness”. A practice where some temporary visa holders keep applying for new visas to stay in the country for longer periods without becoming permanent residents. This is part of a broader strategy to make sure the migration system remains fair and supports genuine students. These changes also aim to ensure the integrity of Australia’s international education system, while giving genuine students the chance to come, study, and contribute to the country’s economy. How to Apply for a Student Visa Now in Australia for 2025 If you’re planning to study in Australia after these changes, the process is simple: What This Means for Future International Students Australia is still a top choice for international students, but with these new visa rules, it’s essential to start planning early. If you’re on any of the impacted temporary visas, make sure to apply for your student visa offshore and understand the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirements. These changes are part of Australia’s plan to keep its education system strong and make sure only genuine students are getting the chance to study and live in the country. For more details on how to apply for a student visa or to stay up-to-date with the latest changes, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. Final Thoughts Australia’s new visa rules are focused on stopping visa hopping and ensuring that its migration system supports genuine students. By applying for your visa from offshore and staying informed about the latest changes, you can make your study plans in Australia smoother and easier.

Starting October 2024, the Australian Government has introduced a new pre-application ballot process for the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa, specifically for applicants from China, India, and Vietnam. If you’re thinking about applying, here’s everything you need to know about how the new ballot process works and how to give yourself the best chance of being selected for work and holiday visa in Australia. What Is the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) Visa? The Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) is a fantastic opportunity for young people aged between 18 and 30 years to visit Australia for a working holiday. It allows you to explore our beautiful country while earning some money to support your travels. However, because the demand for this visa is so high, the government has introduced a ballot system to make the process fairer for countries where the visa is extremely popular. For detailed information, check the Department of Home Affairs website. Why the Ballot Process for Some Countries? The introduction of the ballot system is all about making the visa selection process fairer for people from countries with high demand, such as China, India, and Vietnam. Rather than it being first-come, first-served, applicants now have to register for the ballot, and if you’re lucky enough to be selected, you’ll get the chance to apply for the visa. Don’t worry. It’s an easy and straightforward process, and we will walk you through it. How to Enter the Ballot If you’re eligible for the 462 visa and want to apply, you’ll need to first register for the visa ballot. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to do: 1. Create an ImmiAccount Before you apply, you’ll need to set up an ImmiAccount, which is how you’ll submit your application online. There are two types of ImmiAccounts you can create: If you don’t already have one, head to the Australian immigration website and create an Immiaccount. It’s free and quick to set up. 2. Check Your Eligibility To apply for the Work and Holiday Visa in Australia, you first need to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. Begin by creating an ImmiAccount if you haven’t done so already; this is essential for your application. You must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of registration and hold a valid passport from one of the eligible ballot countries (China, India, Vietnam). If you’re from India, a valid PAN card serves as your national identity card, while Vietnamese applicants need to use a 12-digit national ID card (not the old 9-digit version). Make sure you have a valid email address and verify it, as this is crucial for the application process. Additionally, you’ll need to agree to the declarations in the registration form and pay a small registration fee of AUD 25 (non-refundable). You can register whether you are in Australia or outside, but keep in mind that if you are selected, you can only apply for your first Work and Holiday visa from outside Australia. 3. Register for the Ballot Once logged in, look for the pre-application ballot form under “New Application” in your ImmiAccount. Fill it out with your details. 4. Pay the Fee There’s a AUD 25 registration fee that you’ll need to pay to enter the ballot. 5. Submit Before the Deadline The registration period varies depending on your country: That’s it. Once you’ve registered, your application will be automatically included in the ballot. What Happens After You Submit Your Application? Once you’ve submitted your registration, you’ll receive a confirmation email, and your status in your ImmiAccount will show as ‘received.’ After the registration period closes, the ballot selection process begins, and this is where things get interesting. If You’re Selected If you’re one of the lucky ones randomly selected from the ballot, you’ll receive an email letting you know that you’ve been chosen to apply for the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa. The email will include details on how to complete your visa application and how long you have to submit it, usually, this is around 28 days. Keep in mind that being selected from the ballot doesn’t automatically mean you’ll get the visa. You’ll still need to meet all the usual eligibility criteria when you apply. If You’re Not Selected If, unfortunately, you’re not selected in the ballot, you won’t be able to apply for the 462 visa this year. And while it’s a bit of a bummer, the AUD 25 registration fee is non-refundable, even if you miss out. However, don’t lose hope, you can always try again next year! Important Dates to Remember To give yourself the best chance of being selected, make sure you stay on top of the key dates for registering in the ballot and the selection process: Registration Deadlines: Selection Periods: If you’re selected, make sure you get your visa application submitted within the 28-day window to avoid missing out. Why Should You Consider the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) Visa? The Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa is an amazing opportunity to experience Australia. Not only will you have the chance to travel and experience our unique culture, but you’ll also be able to work and earn money while you’re here. Whether you’re planning a gap year, looking to immerse yourself in a new culture, or just keen to explore the Aussie lifestyle, this visa could be your ticket to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. With the new ballot system, the application process has become a lot fairer for people from countries with high demand. So, if you’re eligible and you’re serious about coming to Australia, it’s worth taking the time to register and give it a go. Final Thoughts The introduction of the ballot process for the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa in 2024 means you’ll need to plan ahead and get your registration in on time. It’s a simple process, and with a bit of luck, you could soon be on your way to Australia for the adventure of

The Australian immigration system is going through major changes, especially in skilled migration. At the center of this is the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482), which helps address labor shortages and provides a potential path to permanent residency. Understanding the Subclass 482 TSS Visa The TSS visa, which replaced the subclass 457 visa, operates under three main streams: Recent Changes & Future Reforms The TSS visa program has seen significant changes to better meet Australia’s workforce needs, including: The Australian government is continuously reviewing the TSS visa to ensure it meets the needs of the workforce, especially for lower-paid workers with essential skills. Future reforms could include changes to occupation lists, eligibility criteria, and paths to permanent residency to keep the program in line with Australia’s migration strategy. Proposed New Visa Programs The government is planning to introduce new visa programs in late 2024 to complement or replace aspects of the TSS visa. One of these is the Skills in Demand Visa, which offers full mobility and clearer paths to permanent residency. It will have three key pathways: Implications for Employers & Workers These new pathways signal a shift in Australia’s skilled migration approach. The TSS visa may be reformed to align with these new programs or become less central to migration. For employers and skilled workers, this means more options and possibly simpler processes for migration. The focus on pathways to permanent residency makes Australia more attractive for long-term settlement. As these changes unfold, it’s important for both employers and potential migrants to stay informed to make the most of the opportunities in Australia’s changing immigration landscape.

As we enter the new financial year on 1 July, significant updates to Australian migration and visa policies are coming into effect. Here’s a breakdown of the major changes you should know about: 1. Increased Flexibility for Work Visa Holders Starting 1 July 2024, the Government will introduce significant but very positive changes to visa conditions (8107, 8607, and 8608). These updates are part of the Australian Government’s efforts to combat worker exploitation and improve productivity. These changes provide more flexibility for temporary work visa holders. Affected Visas The changes apply to: What’s New? Visa holders who stop working for their sponsor will now have up to 180 days at a time (or a maximum of 365 days across the entire visa period) to find a new sponsor or arrange other visa options. This is a substantial increase from the current limit (i.e. 60 consecutive days). During these periods, visa holders can work for other employers, even in occupations other than those listed on their most recent nomination. However, visa holders must stick to work that aligns with any licenses or registration needed for their nominated occupation. These changes affect both existing visa holders and those granted a visa from 1 July 2024 onwards. Importantly, any days not working prior to this date won’t count towards the 365-day total. What’s Next? Upcoming Changes Starting on 23 November 2024, the Government plans to simplify the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) process by reducing the required work experience. Currently, Subclass 482 TSS visa applicants need two years of full-time work experience in their occupation or a related field to satisfy visa requirements. However, with the proposed changes, this requirement will drop to just one year. Do keep in mind, though, that if you don’t have a formal qualification, you might need additional work experience to make up for it. The amount of extra experience required can vary based on your qualifications, the position’s skill level, and how recent your work experience is. This change is still subject to Parliament’s approval, but it’s definitely something to look forward to if you’re planning to apply for a TSS visa in late 2024. 2. TSMIT Increase Starting from 1 July 2024, the TSMIT increases from $70,000 to $73,150. This adjustment is crucial for businesses and workers involved with the Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482), Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Subclass 494), and Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) visas. What This Means for Employers and Nominees The new threshold means that from 1 July 2024, all new nomination applications for the above visa categories must ensure that nominees receive an annual salary of at least $73,150, or the annual market salary rate for their occupation, whichever is higher. This change is intended to reflect the evolving economic conditions and ensure that overseas skilled workers are compensated fairly compared to their Australian counterparts. Impact on Current and Future Visa Applications Applications lodged before the 1 July 2024 cutoff will not be affected by this increase. These will continue to be assessed based on the TSMIT and market salary rates applicable at the time of application submission. 3. International Graduates The Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa program will undergo big changes starting on 1 July 2024. New Names, New Rules The Australian Government is reshaping the Temporary Graduate visa into two distinct streams: Age and Stay Changes The maximum age for both streams is changing to 35 at the time of application, except for Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders and Masters (research) or PhD graduates, who can apply until age 50. Stay Duration: Streamlining Visa Options The Replacement stream will be discontinued. The Second Post-Study Work Stream will transition to the Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream, but no other changes will affect this category. The Skilled Recognised Graduate (Subclass 476) will no longer be available from 1st July. These updates aim to ensure that Australia continues to attract skilled graduates who can contribute to the economy. 4. Restricting Onshore Student Visa Applications The Federal Government is tightening the rules around student visas to maintain the integrity of its education system and ensure that only genuine students benefit from opportunities to contribute to the country’s economic growth. Who’s Affected? The following visa holders will be impacted by the new rules and will need to apply for a student visa from outside Australia: These changes aim to limit the practice of “permanently temporary” residents—former international students who continually extend their temporary status in Australia. What This Means for Potential Students Temporary Graduate Visa holders should plan to either leave Australia upon their visa’s expiry or seek employment and visa pathways that could lead to permanent residency. Visitor Visa holders who intend to study must apply for their student visas before arriving in Australia. These measures are designed to streamline the process, ensuring that the student visa program enhances Australia’s educational offerings and economic growth. Those planning to study in Australia should prepare to meet these new requirements by applying from outside the country. 5. New Visa Application Charges (VAC Increase) ​​​​Starting on 1 July 2024, new visa application charges apply. The new charges apply to all visa applications received by the Department on or after 1 July 2024. The amendments aim to implement the annual indexation of VACs in line with the forecast Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the 2024-25 Budget Decision Visa Application Charge Uplift. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular subclasses: Visa Type Subclass Before From 1st July 2024 Partner visa (Onshore / Offshore) 820/801 & 309/100 $8,850 $9,095 Skilled visas 189 / 190 / 491 $4,640 $4,765 Graduate 485 $1,895 $1,945 Student 500 $710 $1,600 Temporary Skill Shortage (Short Term) 482 $1,455 $1,495 Temporary Skill Shortage (Long Term) 482 $3,035 $3,115 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) 186 $4,640 $4,770 Our VAC Search (only subscribers) has been fully updated with the new charges to facilitate your search for visa subclass processing fees. 6. Other Important Updates After 30 June 2024, the age

What is a DAMA? A Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a type of Labour Agreement. Labour Agreements are work agreements that enable approved employers to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they are unable to fill with local workers and in response to identified market shortages.  These agreements are negotiated between the Department and employers or industrial associations. Other types of labour agreements also include: Company-specific labour agreements, Project agreements, Global Talent Scheme (GST) agreements and Industry labour agreements. DAMAs are labour agreements between a Designated Area Representative (DAR) and the Australian Government and provide access to additional occupations and concessions to standard migration programs under the: Once a DAMA is in place, local businesses can apply for endorsement and enter into individual labour agreements under the conditions of the relevant DAMA. Active DAMAs There are currently thirteen DAMA lists in place: How To Apply Under A DAMA? The DAMA is an employer-sponsored visa program and individual workers cannot apply independently. Employers must apply to the relevant DAR to access the DAMA for the occupations, concessions and number of workers they required. Generally, the application process consists of:

The Construction Visa Subsidy Program (CVSP) is a program offered by the State Government of Western Australia to support the construction industry by providing financial assistance to employers who are sponsoring skilled migrants.  It is designed to help construction companies in Western Australia access skilled overseas workers in the building and construction sector, which can be crucial for addressing labour shortages, expanding workforce, and growing businesses. Key benefits for companies: – Access to Skilled Workers: The program supports construction companies in sponsoring skilled overseas workers across a range of eligible occupations (see full list below). – Financial Support: CVSP provides subsidies and incentives to eligible employers, making it more cost-effective to hire and retain skilled workers from overseas. These subsidies can significantly reduce labour costs. – Flexible Visa Options: CVSP supports various visa subclasses, including 482, 494, and 186. This allows the company to choose the best fit for specific workforce needs. Enhanced Growth Potential: Accessing skilled overseas workers through CVSP can open up new opportunities for companies to grow, take on larger projects, and improve competitiveness in the construction industry. Eligibility To be eligible for the CVSP, the company must be headquartered in Western Australia, engaged in building and construction work, and sponsor an employee in an eligible occupation, such as construction project manager, civil engineer, electrician, or carpenter. Eligible occupations ANZSCO Name 133111 Construction project manager 133112 Project builder 232111 Architect 232112 Landscape architect 232212 Surveyor 232611 Urban and regional planner 233211 Civil engineer 233213 Quantity surveyor 233214 Structural engineer 312111 Architectural draftsperson 312112 Building associate 312113 Building inspector (including building certifiers/building surveyors) 312114 Construction estimator 312115 Plumbing inspector 312116 Surveying or spatial science technician 312199 Architectural, building and surveying technicians not elsewhere classified 312211 Civil engineering draftsperson 312212 Civil engineering technician 312311 Electrical Engineering Draftsperson 312312 Electrical Engineering Technician 312911 Maintenance planner 312999 Building and engineering technician 331111 Bricklayer 331112 Stonemason 331211 Carpenter and joiner 331212 Carpenter 331213 Joiner 332111 Floor finisher 332211 Painting trades worker 333111 Glazier 333211 Fibrous plasterer 333212 Solid plasterer 333311 Roof tiler 333411 Wall and floor tiler 334111 Plumber (general) 334115 Roof plumber 334112 Air conditioning and mechanical services plumber 334113 Drainer 334114 Gasfitter 341111 Electrician (general) 341112 Electrician (special class) 341113 Lift mechanic 342111 Air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic 342411 Cabler (data and telecommunications) 362213 Landscape gardener 394111 Cabinetmaker 399912 Interior decorator 399918 Fire protection equipment technician 511111 Contract administrator 712111 Crane, hoist or lift operator 721211 Earthmoving plant operator (general) 721212 Backhoe operator 721214 Excavator operator 721216 Loader operator 721915 Road roller operator 821211 Concreter 821712 Scaffolder 821713 Steel fixer 821912 Driller’s assistant Note that different occupations might be eligible for different visa subclasses. Grant payments The company can receive payments of up to $10,000, at three milestone points for each skilled migrant they sponsor: The important part: The company can enter the program even if it doesn’t have a skilled migrant they would like to sponsor. They can receive the first milestone payment and then look for the employee!