Australia Immigration News – Latest visa updates on Australian immigration

Get the latest and most up-to-date information on Australian immigration by following our news update page regularly. Keeping abreast of the latest developments in Australian immigration will help you prepare better for your move to Australia.

November 20, 2024

Western Australia issued invites for candidates under the State Nomination Migration Program 2024-25

The State Nominated Migration Program nomination was held on November 20, 2024, and issued invites for two visa streams: 

Intending visa subclass	General stream	General stream	Graduate stream	Graduate stream
	WASMOL schedule 1	WASMOL schedule 2	Higher education	Vocational education and training
Subclass 190 Visa	200	400	150	48
Subclass 491 Visa	200	400	150	51

*Want to migrate to Australia? Let Y-Axis help you with the process. 

November 16, 2024

Growing Demand for Skilled Occupations in South Australia's 2024-2025 Skilled Migration Program

The key occupations listed in South Australia's 2024-2025 Skilled Migration Program have received a high number of Registrations of Interest (ROIs). The program received many applications for occupations such as Chefs, Motor Mechanics (General), and Enrolled Nurses, even exceeding the annual quota. The Skilled & Business Migration (SBM) advises applicants to explore alternate options like DAMA. The program will continue sending invitations to those wishing to live and work in Australia.

*Want to migrate to Australia? Let Y-Axis help you with the process.

November 14, 2024

Important Announcement: Registration for MATES Visa Ballot opens for Indian nationals 

The Australian government opened registrations for the first pre-application ballot for MATES in December 2024. Indian nationals from top universities can register through the pre-application ballot to apply for a Subclass 403 visa. 

Australia announced that it will grant 3,000 visas under the MATES visa program. Candidates must register through the pre-Application Ballot system to apply for the MATES visa. Eligible candidates from the ballot will receive an invitation to apply. 

Eligibility to apply for the Ballot 

• Registered in the ImmiAccount 
• Indian passport 
• PAN number 
• Must be aged between 18-30 years 
• Applying for the MATES ballot for the first time 
• Valid email address 
• Agree to the declaration form 
• Complete the application fee (AUD 25)

Registration Process

Applicant can register if: 

• The registration  is open 
• First-time applicants

Note: Family members of selected candidates can apply separately through the Ballot. 

Read more… 

November 07, 2024

Announcement: Australia issued invites for eligible candidates via Skillselect Invitations rounds

On 7th November, Australia issued 15,000 invitations to candidates under Subclass 189 visas. Eligible candidates from certain occupations, such as IT professionals, professional engineers, trade occupations, a few general occupations, and healthcare professionals, were invited.

You can refer to the below table for top occupations and the minimum score required for each:

Occupation	Subclass 189
	Minimum scored
Accountant (General)	95
Actuary	85
Aeronautical Engineer	85
Agricultural Consultant	85
Agricultural Engineer	90
Agricultural Scientist	90
Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber	70
Analyst Programmer	85
Architect	70
Arts Administrator or Manager	90
Audiologist	75
Biochemist	90
Biomedical Engineer	85
Biotechnologist	85
Boat Builder and Repairer	90
Bricklayer	65
Cabinetmaker	65
Cardiothoracic Surgeon	85
Carpenter	65
Carpenter and Joiner	65
Chef	85
Chemical Engineer	85
Chemist	90
Child Care Centre Manager	75
Chiropractor	75
Civil Engineer	85
Civil Engineering Draftsperson	70
Civil Engineering Technician	70
Clinical Psychologist	75
Computer Network and Systems Engineer	95
Construction Project Manager	70
Dancer or Choreographer	90
Dermatologist	75
Developer Programmer	95
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist	80
Diesel Motor Mechanic	95
Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher	70
Economist	90
Educational psychologist	75
Electrical Engineer	85
Electrical Engineering Draftsperson	90
Electrical Engineering Technician	90
Electrician (General)	65
Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (Special Class)	90
Electronics Engineer	95
Emergency Medicine Specialist	75
Engineering Manager	90
Engineering Professionals nec	85
Engineering Technologist	85
Environmental Consultant	90
Environmental Engineer	85
Environmental Manager	90
Environmental Research Scientist	90
Environmental Scientists nec	90
External Auditor	85
Fibrous Plasterer	65
Food Technologist	90
Forester	90
General Practitioner	75
Geophysicist	90
Geotechnical Engineer	70
Hydrogeologist	90
ICT Business Analyst	95
ICT Security Specialist	95
Industrial Engineer	85
Intensive Care Specialist	75
Internal Auditor	90
Landscape Architect	70
Life Scientist (General)	90
Life Scientists nec	90
Lift Mechanic	65
Management Accountant	95
Management Consultant	85
Marine Biologist	90
Materials Engineer	85
Mechanical Engineer	85
Medical Diagnostic Radiographer	75
Medical Laboratory Scientist	75
Medical Practitioners nec	75
Medical Radiation Therapist+	75
Metal Fabricator	75
Metal Machinist (First Class)	90
Metallurgist	90
Meteorologist	90
Microbiologist	90
Midwife	70
Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum)	90
Motor Mechanic (General)	85
Multimedia Specialist	85
Music Director	90
Musician (Instrumental)	90
Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec	90
Naval Architect	90
Neurologist	75
Nuclear Medicine Technologist	75
Nurse Practitioner	80
Nursing Clinical Director	115
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist	90
Occupational Therapist	75
Optometrist	75
Orthopaedic Surgeon	75
Orthotist or Prosthetist	75
Osteopath	75
Other Spatial Scientist	90
Paediatrician	75
Painting Trades Worker	65
Pathologist	75
Petroleum Engineer	85
Physicist	90
Physiotherapist	75
Plumber (General)	65
Podiatrist	75
Primary Health Organisation Manager	95
Production or Plant Engineer	85
Psychiatrist	75
Psychologists nec	75
Quantity Surveyor	70
Registered Nurse (Aged Care)	70
Registered Nurse (Child and Family Health)	75
Registered Nurse (Community Health)	75
Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency)	70
Registered Nurse (Developmental Disability)	75
Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation)	75
Registered Nurse (Medical Practice)	75
Registered Nurse (Medical)	70
Registered Nurse (Mental Health)	75
Registered Nurse (Paediatrics)	70
Registered Nurse (Perioperative)	75
Registered Nurse (Surgical)	75
Registered Nurses nec	70
Secondary School Teacher	70
Sheetmetal Trades Worker	70
Social Worker	70
Software and Applications Programmers nec	85
Software Engineer	95
Solicitor	85
Solid Plasterer	70
Sonographer	75
Special Education Teachers nec	75
Special Needs Teacher	70
Specialist Physician (General Medicine)	75
Specialist Physicians nec	75
Speech Pathologist	75
Statistician	90
Structural Engineer	70
Surveyor	90
Systems Analyst	95
Taxation Accountant	85
Telecommunications Engineer	85
Telecommunications Field Engineer	85
Telecommunications Network Engineer	85
Telecommunications Network Planner	90
Telecommunications Technical Officer or Technologist	90
Thoracic Medicine Specialist	75
Transport Engineer	70
University Lecturer	90
Valuer	90
Veterinarian	85
Wall and Floor Tiler	65
Welder (First Class)	70
Zoologist	90

*Want to apply for Subclass 189 visa? Let Y-Axis help you with the process. 

October 24, 2024

The latest ACT Canberra Matrix Invitation Round invited 227 candidates 

The latest ACT Canberra Invitation Draw was held on October 24, 2024. The details of the invitations are listed in the table below: 

Category	Visa Subclass	Stream	Invitations Issued	Minimum Matrix Score
Canberra Residents	Subclass 190	Small Business Owners	1	130
	Subclass 491	Small Business Owners	3	120
	Subclass 190	457 / 482 Visa Holders	14	N/A
	Subclass 491	457 / 482 Visa Holders	2	N/A
	Subclass 190	Critical Skill Occupations	79	N/A
	Subclass 491	Critical Skill Occupations	97	N/A
Overseas Applicants	Subclass 190	Critical Skill Occupations	1	N/A
	Subclass 491	Critical Skill Occupations	30	N/A

*Want to migrate to Australia? Sign up with Y-Axis for complete immigration assistance! 

October 21, 2024

MATES program aims to invite 3,000 Indian students 

Australia’s MATES program has introduced a 3,000 annual quota for Indian students (aged 18-35). Indian students can apply for post-graduation and study opportunities in Australia with the MATES visa. They can live and work in the country with a MATES visa for up to 2 years.

Read more…

October 17, 2024

Western Australia declared the Invitation round. Apply Now!

Western Australia issued invitations on 17 October 2024 for the state-nominated migration program. Below is the detail of the recent invitation:

Intending visa subclass	General stream	General stream	Graduate stream	Graduate stream
	WASMOL schedule 1	WASMOL schedule 2	Higher education	Vocational education and training
Visa subclass 190	125	150	75	50
Visa subclass 491	125	150	75	50

*To know more about the procedure for an Australia Subclass 190 , talk to Y-Axis.

October 11, 2024

New South Wales opened registration for State Migration Program for 2024-25 

Skilled migrants can apply now for the NSW State Migration program 2024-25.

NSW priority sectors:

The New South Wales priority sectors includes:

• Construction (infrastructure and housing)
• Renewables (net zero and clean energy)
• Care Economy (aged care, disability services, early childhood care)
• Digital and Cyber (across industries)
• Education (teachers)
• Agriculture and Agri Food
• Advanced Manufacturing

Skill List

The updated skill list for the subclass 491 visa and subclass 190 visa has been published.  

Invitation rounds For Subclass 190 visa 

The Subclass 190 visa, the invitation rounds will be announced soon.

Note: Please make sure to provide a proof of evidence for an updated SkillSelect EOI. 

For Subclass 491 visa 

• The subclass 491 visa (Pathway 1 and 3)will be shortly available.
• Pathway 3 recent graduates from regional NSW institutions can apply through the new Regional NSW Graduate Pathway.

TSMIT Concession (Pathway 1 - Subclass 491): 

A reduction of 10% will be available for selected occupation applicants on  the TSMIT.

Skilled Employment Criteria:

New South Wales has made the procedure of applying for EOI simpler than before. 

Application Fee

The application fee for the Migration Program is A$315 (plus GST if from Australia).

*To know more about the procedure for an Australia Subclass 491, talk to Y-Axis. 

October 10, 2024

VETASSESS increased the fee for Professional and General Occupations

The Professional and General  application assessment fees will increase on November 20,2024. Trade occupations will not be included in this change.

• The Priority Processing application fee will not change.
• The documentation applied before November 20 will not change.

*To know more about the Australia Skilled Migration Program contact Y-Axis

September 26, 2024

Registration open for the first Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa 

Australia's government opened registration for the first Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa ballots for India, will open on 1  October 2024.

Below are the open and closed dates for the ballot registration for the program year 2024-25. This means all the applications are to be submitted between the below-mentioned dates.

Registration Open Date	01-10-2024
Registration Close Date	31-10-2024

Below are the ballot selection open and close dates for the program year 2024-25:

Selection Open Date	14-10-2024
Selection Close Date	30-04-2025

Note: The department may conduct one or more selections for a country ballot during an open selection period and can extend the open period. After the selection open period ends, all registrations for that ballot expire.

Requirements to register from your country

To register under your country’s ballot, applicants need to complete the following when registering:

• Create an ImmiAccount
• Aged under 30 years of age.
• Be a valid passport holder issued by an eligible ballot participating country.
• Must have a valid national identity card issued by an eligible ballot participating country (PAN card for Indian passport holders).
• Valid email address.
• Verify your email address
• Agree to the registration form’s declarations.
• Pay the registration fee (AUD25).

Note: Applicants have 28 days to file the visa upon selection through ballot.

*To know more about the Australia Work and Holiday visa contact Y-Axis.  

September 24, 2024

Top 10 occupations that Vetassess processes 

Below are the details of 10 occupations that Vetasses processes as per the given general occupations:

• Marketing Specialist.
• University Lecturer
• Cafe of Restaurant Manager
• Information and Organization Professional (NEC)
• Human Resource Adviser
• Recruitment Consultant.
• Management Consultant
• Organization and Methods Analyst
• Program or Project Administrators
• Private Tutors and Teachers (NEC)

Note: As per Vetassess advice, the client should provide a letter and two payment evidence if the roles are not offered on letterhead and proceed only with the self-statutory declaration.

*To know more about the Australia Skilled Migration Program contact  Y-Axis.  

September 20, 2024

Victoria is planning to provide opportunities for International students 

The Victorian Government plans to provide more opportunities for international student graduates. In the 2024-25 program year,this change will register 500 nomination places for the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491). This change will prioritise Victorian educational institution graduates, allowing them to contribute to regional communities. Besides, graduates residing and working in Melbourne can now submit an ROI offering a pathway to relocate and develop their careers in regional Victoria.

To know more about the procedure for an Australia Subclass 491, talk to Y-Axis. 

September 19, 2024

Latest Canberra Matrix Invitation Round

The Canberra Matrix Invitation draw was held on  September 19, 2024. Here is the detail of the invitation rounds of the draw.

Category	Subclass 190 Invitations	Subclass 491 Invitations
Canberra Residents
Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	Not considered	Not considered
Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	12	1
Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	43	29
Overseas Applicants
Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	13	32

Note: The next draw will be held before 8 November 2024.

To know more about the procedure for an Australia Subclass 491, talk to Y-Axis.

September 19, 2024

Latest SkillSelect Invitation Round Results 

The latest Skill Select invitation round issued Expressions of Interest (EOIs) on 5 September 2024, and the tie-break date for the SkillSelect invitation round was held. 

Below is the list of Invitations issued by occupation, and the minimum score invited:

Visa subclass	Total EOIs Invited	Tie break date - month and year
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)	7,973	Sep-22

To know more about the procedure for an Australia Subclass 189, talk to Y-Axis.

September 16, 2024

DHA announced results of the 1st Invitation round for the FY 2024-25

The Department of Home Affairs has released the results for the first invitation round. The first round was held on September 5, 2024. DHA issued a total of 7,973 for Subclass 189. IT professionals, trades occupations specialists, engineers, social workers, healthcare professionals and few other general occupations receive invitations. The minimum score required to receive an invitation was 65 points. 

The table below has the list of points allotted for each  occupations that received an invitation:

Occupation	Subclass 189 visa
	Minimum scored
Accountant (General)	95
Actuary	90
Aeronautical Engineer	90
Agricultural Consultant	95
Agricultural Engineer	95
Agricultural Scientist	95
Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber	65
Analyst Programmer	90
Architect	75
Audiologist	75
Biochemist	95
Biomedical Engineer	90
Biotechnologist	90
Bricklayer	65
Cabinetmaker	65
Carpenter	65
Carpenter and Joiner	65
Chef	90
Chemical Engineer	90
Chemist	90
Child Care Centre Manager	80
Civil Engineer	90
Civil Engineering Draftsperson	75
Civil Engineering Technician	75
Computer Network and Systems Engineer	100
Construction Project Manager	75
Developer Programmer	100
Diesel Motor Mechanic	90
Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher	75
Economist	90
Electrical Engineer	90
Electrician (General)	65
Electrician (Special Class)	70
Electronics Engineer	90
Engineering Manager	95
Engineering Professionals nec	90
Engineering Technologist	90
Environmental Consultant	90
Environmental Engineer	95
Environmental Manager	95
Environmental Research Scientist	95
External Auditor	90
Food Technologist	90
Geophysicist	100
Geotechnical Engineer	75
ICT Business Analyst	95
ICT Security Specialist	95
Industrial Engineer	90
Internal Auditor	95
Landscape Architect	75
Life Scientist (General)	90
Life Scientists nec	95
Management Accountant	95
Management Consultant	90
Materials Engineer	90
Mechanical Engineer	90
Medical Laboratory Scientist	75
Microbiologist	90
Motor Mechanic (General)	90
Multimedia Specialist	90
Other Spatial Scientist	100
Pathologist	85
Petroleum Engineer	95
Primary Health Organisation Manager	95
Production or Plant Engineer	90
Quantity Surveyor	75
Secondary School Teacher	75
Sheetmetal Trades Worker	75
Social Worker	75
Software and Applications Programmers nec	90
Software Engineer	100
Special Education Teachers nec	80
Special Needs Teacher	80
Statistician	90
Structural Engineer	75
Surveyor	95
Systems Analyst	95
Taxation Accountant	90
Telecommunications Engineer	90
Telecommunications Field Engineer	95
Telecommunications Network Engineer	90
Transport Engineer	75
University Lecturer	90
Welder (First Class)	75
Zoologist	90

The table below has the total number of invitations issued by the states from July 1, 2024 to date.

Visa subclass	ACT	NSW	NT	QLD	SA	TAS	VIC	WA	Total
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)	56	21	41	5	112	186	64	49	534
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) State and Territory Nominated	31	22	48	5	27	57	70	21	281
Total	87	43	89	10	139	243	134	70	815

*Looking for assistance with Australian immigration? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process. 

September 13, 2024

Queensland migration program for the FY 2024-25 is open now

The Queensland migration program registration is open now for FY 2024-25.Below is the criteria for offshore applicants for subclass 190 and 491.

Requirement	Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190)	Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
Points	Have a points test result of 65 or higher	Have a points test result of 65 or higher
Occupation	Have an occupation on the offshore Queensland Skilled Occupation List	Have an occupation on the offshore Queensland Skilled Occupation List
English	Have Proficient English or higher	Have Proficient English or higher
Work experience	Have at least 5 years skilled employment experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related occupation.	Have at least 5 years skilled employment experience in your nominated occupation or a closely related occupation.
	Only work experience declared as related to your nominated occupation on your EOI will be considered.	Only work experience declared as related to your nominated occupation on your EOI will be considered.
Commitment to living in Queensland	Must commit to living and working in Queensland for 2 years from date your visa is granted	Must commit to living and working in Queensland for 3 years from date your visa is granted

A new category was added called Priority processing for Energy Workers.Below are requirements to apply for the stream:

Requirement	Details
Occupation	Have a positive skills assessment for a priority occupation to support the energy sector.
Work experience	Have been working in your nominated occupation, or a closely related occupation, for at least 3 years in the energy sector.
	This experience can be counted towards the standard minimum 5 years' work experience requirement.

Note: The list includes Vetassess general, trades, professional engineers, teachers, and medical occupations, but it does not include IT Occupations except ICT security specialists.

To know more about the procedure for an Australia Subclass 491, talk to Y-Axis.  

September 10, 2024

Australia Working Holiday Visa: Requirements eligibility,and processing date for Indians

The Australian government plans to open the ballot process for an Australian Working Holiday Visa on 16 September 2024. Three countries under the Ballot procedure are listed: India, China, and Vietnam. Applicants meeting the eligibility criteria below can apply for a ballot process. Applied candidates will be randomly selected and invited to apply for the visa.

The program details are below, and India is allotted 1000 places for the current year.

Eligibility requirements of Work and Holiday Program(Subclass 462) - India

• Be an Indian citizen
• Age must be below 18 -30 years(when applying for a visa)
• Previously not a holder of  a Work holiday visa earlier
• Applicants must be outside Australia.
• University degrees, diplomas, and other graduate certificates with a minimum of two years of study (above the post-secondary level) will be accepted. 
• With the Working Holiday visa, applicants cannot bring their family members.

Proof of English Language requirement is not required if:

1. A holder of a valid passport issued by the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland.
2. Completed English language test or assessment ( with a band score of 4.5 including all four components in IELTS general or PTE 30 )
3. Acquire educational qualifications: from primary English medium school and have three years of experience in English. 

Requirements for Working Holiday Visa

• Have sufficient proof of funds: approximately AUD5,000. Before applying for a visa, suggest 4.5 to 5.5 Lakhs in readily available INR funds. 
• Health Insurance 
• Provide the character and police clearance certificate
• Clear your debts to the Australian Government

Visa validity: 12 months

Application Processing fees: 

• Ballot cost: AUD25
•  Visa application cost: AUD 635.00

Options for Visa extension

• Can apply for a second work holiday visa for more than 12 months if they meet the specified work for at least three months.

Industries and areas that are approved for the Working Holiday visa: 

Below are the mentioned industries that are approved for the Working Holiday visa:

• Tourism and Hospitality: Northern or remote and very remote Australia
• Plant and Animal cultivation: Northern Australia and other specified areas of regional Australia
• Fishing and Pearling: Only in Northern Australia 
• Tree farming: Northern Australia 
• Construction: Northern Australia and other specified areas of regional Australia

To know more about the procedure for an Australia Working Holiday visa, talk to Y-Axis.  

September 09, 2024

'Right to Disconnect' law for Australian Employees will be effective from today!

The 'Right to Disconnect' law for Australian Employees is effective from September 9, 2024, and gives the right to the employers to ignore work-related texts after working hours. Australia has recently been counted among the twenty other countries, including  Europe and Latin America. 

Read more…

August 30, 2024

Australia plans to welcome 185,000 PRs in 2025. Apply now!

The Australian government announced that the Permanent Migration Program planning level for 2024-25 will be 85,000 places. The Permanent Migration Program will invite immigrants from the Skill and Family streams.

Read More…

August 19, 2024

Upcoming updates on Western Australia Invitation Round 

Intending visa subclass	General stream	General stream	Graduate stream	Graduate stream
	WASMOL schedule 1	WASMOL schedule 2	Higher education	Vocational education and training
Visa subclass 190	100	100	75	25
Visa subclass 491	100	100	75	25

To know more about the procedure to apply for Australia Subclass 190 visa contact Y-Axis.

 

August 15, 2024

Application opened for South Australia's 2024-25 General Skilled Migration Program

The application opened for the South Australia 2024-25 General Skilled Migration Program, with the Skill Occupation list for review. Eligible onshore applicants can submit an ROI for any one of the 464 occupations available within three streams: 

• Skilled Employment
• South Australian Graduates
• Outer Regional Skilled Employment

New applicants cannot apply for The Business and Innovation and Investment Program as it is only for existing visa holders to apply for extensions or permanent residency. 

To know more about the procedure to Australia work visa contact Y-Axis.

 

August 15, 2024

Application opened for Victoria's 2024-25 Skilled Migration Program. Apply Now!

Victoria’s 2024-25 Skilled Visa Nomination Program is open for applications. Victorian skilled visa nomination opened under subclass 190 or 491. First, the applicants must submit their EOI through the Australian Government’s SkillSelect system. This Registration of Interest must be submitted to receive an ITA to apply. 
 

To know more about Subclass 190 visa? Talk to Y-Axis for complete guidance. 

 

August 13, 2024
Upcoming Invitation round for Act Canberra Matrix

Here is the upcoming Invitation round for Act Canberra Matrix:

Category	Visa Subclass	Invitations Issued	Minimum Matrix Score
Canberra Residents
Small Business Owners	190	1	125
	491	2	110
457 / 482 Visa Holders	190	7	N/A
	491	1	N/A
Critical Skill Occupations	190 or 491	188	N/A
Total	491	40	N/A

 

August 13, 2024

Latest update on NT General Skilled Migration (GSM) Nomination Applications for 2024-25 

Northern Territory Migration is currently accepting and assessing onshore applications for nomination under the General Skilled Migration program. On August 14, 2024, the onshore application for the NT Family Stream and Job Offer Stream will reopen. The priority occupation stream is closed due to the many applications received. 

To know more about the Australia Skilled Migration Program contact  Y-Axis.

August 02, 2024

Australian Government has announced 26,260 sponsorship application allocations for 8 states and territories

The Australian government issued 26,260 sponsorship application allocations for the FY2024-25. Eight states and territories of Australia received visa nomination places for Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas.  

Australian state	Visa Name	Number of allocations
South Australia	Subclass 190 visa	3,000
	Subclass 491 visa	800
Western Australia	Subclass 190 visa	3,000
	Subclass 491 visa	2,000
Northern Territory	Subclass 190 visa	800
	Subclass 491 visa	800
Queensland	Subclass 190 visa	600
	Subclass 491 visa	600
New South Wales	Subclass 190 visa	3,000
	Subclass 491 visa	2,000
Tasmania	Subclass 190 visa	2,100
	Subclass 491 visa	760
Australian Capital Territory	Subclass 190 visa	1,000
	Subclass 491 visa	800
Victoria	Subclass 190 visa	3,000
	Subclass 491 visa	2,000

Read more...

July 23, 2024

Tasmania received 2860 nomination places for FY 2024-25 

2860 nomination places have been received by Tasmania state for Subclass 190 & 491 visas. The skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa received 2,100 places, while the Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa received 760 places for FY 2024-25. The Skilled Migration State Nomination Program in Tasmania will be accepting new registrations of Interests (ROIs) in the upcoming weeks, details of which will be announced soon. 

Nomination applications registered, but the decision is pending 

If your application is registered for nomination but no decision has been made yet, Migration Tasmania will be processing your application against the requirements specified at the time of your application. Qualifying candidates will be nominated in SkillSelect. 

Subclass 491 applicants seeking subclass 190 nomination

Subclass 491 Applicants who have registered their nomination but the decision is still pending will NOT be considered for subclass 190 nomination. Applicants willing to be considered for Subclass 190 nomination must withdraw their application and lodge a new application when registration for FY 2024-25 reopens. New Invitation to Apply for a Subclass 190 visa will vary based on the level of interest and the proportion of nomination places available at the time. 

July 22, 2024

South Australia has received nomination allocations for the FY 2024-25

3800 nomination allocations for or subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas were received  by South Australia for FY 2024-25. 3000 places nominations were  received for Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa alone and the remaining 800 places were received for Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa. 

July 22, 2024

Victoria State received  5000 nomination allocations for FY 2024-25

5000 nomination allocations were received by Victoria state for FY 2024-25. 3000 places were received for Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa while Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa received the remaining 2000 places. 

July 22, 2024

Offshore applicants eligible for 3 streams under NT sponsorships 

Offshore applicants can now apply for North Territory sponsorships under the three streams listed below: 

1. Priority Occupation Stream

• The applicant’s job role must be listed under the NT Offshore occupation list.
• Specific work experience requirements should be fulfilled as mentioned in the NT sponsorship occupation list.

2. NT Family Stream

• Applicants should have a family member or relative staying In the Northern Territory for minimum of  12 months who is an Australian Citizen/PR holder/eligible NZ citizen or has one of the following visas:
• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa subclass 491
• Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa subclass 489
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa subclass 494
• A bridging visa granted in association with an application for a Skilled Regional Visa subclass 887 or Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) subclass 191 visa

Note: Family members living in Northern Territory must provide employment and accommodation assistance to the applicants. 

3. NT Job Offer Stream

• Applicants must provide an employment offer in the nominated occupation in NT with an NT  business/company that has been active in the NT for a minimum of 12 months.

July 19, 2024

Western Australia State Nomination applications open for FY 2024-25

Applications for Western Australia State Nomination Program FY 2024-25 are now open. WA has waived of AUD 200 application fee for this FY. Invitation rounds might take place on the 1st week of every month and the 1st round to begin from August 24 onwards. An employment offer is required for Subclass 191 but not for Subclass 491. Applicants must have qualifiable scores in IELTS/PTE Academic or equivalent exams.

Note: A provisional skills assessment issued for a subclass 485 visa application is not considered.

 

June 26, 2024

Australia State and Territory Nominations from 1st July 2023 to 31st May 202

The total number of nominations issued by State and Territory Governments from 1 July 2023 to 31 May 2024 is given in the following table:

June 24, 2024

Australia announces new changes for Skilled Worker Visas, effective from July 01, 2024

In a recent announcement, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has updated visa conditions for subclass 457, subclass 482, and subclass 494 visas. The changes will come into effect from July 01, 2024, allowing the visa holders to have more time to look for new sponsors in case of a job switch. 

Read more…

June 7, 2024

Vetassess to accept Chef and Fitter profiles!

Vetassess announced the acceptance of occupations like Chef, Fitter which were not processed/ accepted by Vetassess from Sep 23.

Applicants will be able to lodge new applications for:

• Chef (Commercial Cookery), ANZSCO Code 351311
• Chef (Asian Cookery), ANZSCO Code 351311
• Fitter (General), ANZSCO Code 323211

This applies to Pathway 1 and Pathway 2 applications under OSAP and TSS programs.

June 5, 2024

Australia's Subclass 485 Visa now open to applicants aged below 50

The Australian Department of Home Affairs has announced the minimum age requirement for a Subclass 485 Visa, effective from July 1, 2024. Applicants less than 50 years will be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa program. The two-year extension on Temporary Graduate 485 Visa Streams has come to an end. 2024.

Read more…

May 28, 2024

Australia removes 'technical assessment' for Selected Automotive Trades Applicants

Starting April 1, 2024, Australia will remove the technical assessment for the following trades/occupations/ countries. Applicants can now get their skills assessed under the Migration Skills Assessment (MSA) program. 

Job role	ANZSCO	Countries exempted
Automotive Electrician	321111	China, Ireland, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom
Diesel Motor Mechanic	321212	China, Ireland, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom
Motor Mechanic	321211	China, Ireland, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom
Panelbeater	324111	Ireland, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom
Vehicle Painter	324311	China, Ireland, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom

 

May 20, 2024

Australia Immigration Planning Levels 2024-25

The Australian Government announced that the Immigration planning levels for the year 2024-25 Permanent Migration Program (Migration Program) will be set at 185,000 places. The Subclass 189 quota has been reduced, and more applicants are expected under Subclass 190 and Subclass 491. The allocations for each State will be announced later. Notifications will be sent once it is announced.

Skill Stream Visa
Visa Category	2024-25 Planning Levels
Employer-Sponsored	44,000
Skilled Independent	16,900
State/Territory Nominated	33,000
Regional	33,000
Business Innovation & Investment	1,000
Global Talent Independent	4,000
Distinguished Talent	300
Skill Total	1,32,200
Family Stream Visa
Visa Category	2024-25 Planning Levels
Partner	40,500
Parent	8,500
Child	3,000
Other Family	500
Family Total	52,500
Special Category Visa
Special Eligibility	300
Grand Total	1,85,000

May 18, 2024

Australia launches new innovation visa to attract skilled professionals

The Government of Australia announced a New Innovation Visa to attract skilled workers. The new innovation visa is a replacement for the Global Talent Program. The Business Innovation and Investment Visa Program (BIIP) will be terminated. The Australian Government plans to address issues like inflation rates and the impact of the rental market.

Read more…

May 15, 2024

Australia announces new changes in Temporary Graduate Visa. Apply now!

The Australian Government announced new changes to the Temporary Graduate visa starting July 1, 2024. The Temporary Graduate Visa allows international students who have completed a course that is registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

Read more…

May 09, 2024

Australia State and Territory Nominations in FY 2023-24

The total number of nominations issued by State and Territory Governments from 1 July 2023 to 30 April 2024 is given in the following table: 

Visa Subclass	ACT	NSW	NT	QLD	SA	TAS	VIC	WA
Skilled Nominated (subclass 190)	530	2,092	247	748	994	549	2,648	1,481
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) State and Territory Nominated	463	1,211	381	631	975	455	556	774

April 3, 2024

NSW Government Announces Changes to Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa)

The NSW Government updated the Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) under Pathway 1. The employment duration for skilled workers has been reduced from 12 to 6 months.

March 27, 2024

New English Language Requirements for Student and Temporary Graduate visas in Australia.

On 11 December 2023 as part of the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy, Australia made new changes to English Language Requirements for Student and Temporary Graduate visas. These changes imply applications submitted after 23 March 2024.

Read more…

March 25, 2024

Australia immigration grew by 60% in 2023 and expected to remain steady in 2024

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), population in Australia increased by 2.5%. There were around 765,900 overseas migration arrivals in 2023. The highest number of migrants to Australia in 2023 were from India and China.

Read more…

March 22, 2024

Fee increase from 01 July 2024 - Engineers Australia

Fee increases for the 2024-2025 financial year

From 1 July 2024, Australia migration skills assessment fees will increase by 3–4 percent to align with the wage, consumer, and producer prices. The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations has approved the changes.

Migration skills assessment fees

Our migration skills assessment fees for 2023 to 2024 are below.

International Accords qualification assessment fees

	Current	Current	From 1 July	From 1 July
Item/s	Fee excl. GST AUD	Fee incl. GST AUD	Fee excl. GST AUD	Fee incl. GST AUD
Washington/Sydney/Dublin Accord qualification assessment	$460	$506	$475	$522.50
Washington/Sydney/Dublin Accord qualification assessment plus relevant skilled employment assessment	$850	$935	$875	$962.50
Washington/Sydney/Dublin Accord qualification assessment plus overseas PhD assessment	$705	$775	$730	$803
Washington/Sydney/Dublin Accord qualification assessment plus relevant skilled employment assessment plus overseas engineering PhD assessment	$1095	$1204.50	$1125	$1237.50

 

Australian accredited engineering qualification assessment fees

	Current	Current	From 1 July	From 1 July
Item/s	Fee excl. GST AUD	Fee incl. GST AUD	Fee excl. GST AUD	Fee incl. GST AUD
Australian Engineering Qualification Assessment	$285	$313.50	$295	$324.50
Australian engineering qualification assessment plus relevant skilled employment assessment	$675	$742.50	$695	$764.50
Australian engineering qualification assessment plus overseas engineering PhD assessment	$530	$583	$550	$605
Australian engineering qualification assessment plus relevant skilled employment assessment plus overseas engineering PhD assessment	$920	$1012	$945	$1039.50

 

Competency demonstration report (CDR) assessment fees

	Current	Current	From 1 July	From 1 July
Item/s	Fee excl. GST AUD	Fee incl. GST AUD	Fee excl. GST AUD	Fee incl. GST AUD
Standard competency demonstration report	$850	$935	$880	$968
Competency demonstration report plus relevant skilled employment assessment	$1240	$1364	$1280	$1408
Competency demonstration report plus overseas engineering PhD assessment	$1095	$1204.50	$1130	$1243
Competency demonstration report plus relevant skilled employment assessment plus overseas engineering PhD assessment	$1485	$1633.50	$1525	$1677.50

March 21, 2024

Australia mandates the Genuine Student requirement from March 23, 2024, for international students.

Australia replaces the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. The new requirement aims to identify students genuinely intending to obtain quality education in Australia. The student visa application form consists of questions that will provide an overview of the applicant to visa decision-makers.

Read more…

February 23, 2024

Register for consideration of priority processing.

Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) applicants living in regional Queensland

Migration Queensland invites Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) applicants living in regional Queensland and meeting the nomination criteria to register for attention of priority processing. Applicable applicants can register their details with Migration Queensland from Friday, 23 February - Tuesday, 27 February 2024.

Required documents by applicants

1. Documents must be ready to submit
2. Currently should be living and working in regional Queensland
3. Full-time ongoing employment in regional Queensland for a further six months at the time of EOI lodgement
4. Meet all other Queensland nomination criteria for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).

Additional notes:

• This is for individuals who are truly interested in a 491 nomination. If you are nominated for a Skilled Work Regional 491 visa, Migration Queensland will not nominate you for the Skilled Nominated Permanent 190 visa. 
• Graduates of a Queensland university who meet the requirements of the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) are encouraged to register for priority processing.
• This targeted campaign seeks expressions of interest for decision-ready applications for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491). Registering your interest does not guarantee a nomination, as places are still very limited, and the process is competitive.
• If you are interested in a 491 nomination, this will be one of your final chances to be considered for nomination this program year.
• It will be closed if your application does not meet Queensland criteria or the documents are not ready.
• Migration Queensland continues to process other pathways within our skilled nomination allocation for the 2023 - 2024 financial year.

 

January 25, 2024

Australia to prioritize 2024 Student visas under Ministerial Direction 107

The Australian Government has signed a New Ministerial Direction 107 on December 14, 2023 and it prioritizes the student and student guardian visa applications. The Ministerial Direction outlines clear priorities for different sectors within the student and student guardian visa applications, and the top most priority is given to student visa applications registered outside Australia. Notably, secondary applicants will be given the same priority as the primary applicant.

 

January 02, 2024

Australia Draws - State and Territory nominations 2023-24 program year

In Australia, 8689 nominations were issued from State and Territory Governments from 1 July 2023 to 31 December 2023.

Visa subclass	ACT	NSW	NT	QLD	SA	TAS	VIC	WA
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)	454	966	234	505	830	370	1,722	913
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) State and Territory Nominated	407	295	243	264	501	261	304	420
Business Innovation and Investment (provisional) visa (subclass 188)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

December 27, 2024

New visa to be launched by Australia, to fill 800,000 job vacancies

Australia has introduced a new visa which is the “Skills in demand” visa, and will replace the Temporary skills shortage (Subclass 482) visa. This will address the labour shortage and will facilitate the workforce in the nation by allowing migrants to fill 800,000 job vacancies. The visa is valid for a four year term and provides a clear pathway to permanent residency in Australia.

Australia to launch New Skills in Demand Visa, to fill 800,000 job vacancies. Apply now!

 

December 18, 2023 

DHA Austalia issued 8379 Invitations 

The table below shows the number of invitations issued in the SkillSelect invitation round on 18 December 2023.

Visa subclass	Number
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)	8300
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family-Sponsored	79

December 18, 2023

Tasmania Skilled Migration State Nomination Program Update

The Australian government has updated the list of critical roles and TOSOL (Tasmanian Onshore Skilled Occupation List) in response to the latest advice from jobs and skills. Australia is targeting the highest priority candidates for nomination gold or green pass because of the small nomination allocation received. Business Tasmania helps businesses start, run and grow the business by providing personalized assistance.

December 14, 2023

Australia to process visas faster for candidates with high salary

Australian government is aiming on reducing the waiting times for candidates who received an employment offer with high salary. The visas will be processed faster on an average within a week for candidates with a salary of $135,000 or more under the new specialist pathway. This new initiative by the Australian government for processing visas faster will boost the budget by $3.4 billion over the next decade.

Australia will process visas faster for high earners - Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister

 

December 13, 2023

Australia implements new visa rules, will not affect Indian students

Australia has decided to narrow the visa rules for foreign students and planned on admitting only the right and well matched students. This move will not be affecting the opportunities for Indian studies as both the countries Australia and India are protected under the Australia-India Economic Corporation and Trade Agreement.

Did you know that the new Australia immigration & visa rules are not going to impact Indians.

December 01, 2023

ACT Invitation round, November 2023

On 27 November 2023, ACT invitation round took place issuing invitations to Canberra residents nominating small business owners, 457/482 visa holders, critical skill occupations, and for overseas applicants in critical skill occupations. The next round will take place before 5 February 2024.

November 14, 2023

NSW’s new enhanced and clear pathways for nominations

NSW introduced more streamline and clear pathways for nominations and has updated the procedures for Skilled Work Regional visa under two primary pathways which are direct application (pathway 1) and Invitation by Investment NSW (pathway 2). The government is aiming to start accepting the pathway 1 direct applications and would initiate the invitations for pathway 2 in the near future.

November 14, 2023

WA State Nominated Migration Program draw

WA state nomination held draw on 14 November for visa subclass 190 and visa subclass 491.

Intending Visa Subclass	General stream WASMOL Schedule 1	General stream WASMOL Schedule 2	Graduate stream Higher Education	Graduate stream Vocational Education and Training
Visa subclass 190	300 invitations	140 invitations	103 invitations	75 invitations
Visa subclass 491	0 invitations	460 invitations	122 invitations	0 invitations

November 14, 2023

Migration Tasmania processing times and nomination places; November 14

Migration Tasmania selection process is done on the basis of Registrations of Interest, with 30 invitations that are issued weekly only the most competitive ones are chosen for the nomination. The new plan is to provide outcome for applications within 10 days. 286 nominations have been used out of 600 places for Skilled Nomination visa, and 206 nominations have been used for Skilled Regional Work visa.

November 9, 2023

Migration Tasmania processing times and nomination places; November 9

Migration Tasmania selection process is done on the basis of Registrations of Interest, with 30 invitations that are issued weekly only the most competitive ones are chosen for the nomination. The new plan is to provide outcome for applications within 10 days. 274 nominations have been used out of 600 places for Skilled Nomination visa, and 197 nominations have been used for Skilled Regional Work visa.

November 9, 2023

11 new occupations are added by NT DAMA

NT DAMA II is extended by one year which is valid till 24 December, 2024, and increased the total eligible occupations to 135 by including 11 new occupations. The Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold for selected occupations is reduced to $55,000 and the foreign workers will be eligible to be nominated for permanent subclass 186 visas after working 2 years of full time work in the NT.

November 08, 2023

India-Australia Education Ministers signed 450+ tie-ups, boosting chances for Indian Students! 

Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Education Minister of India met Australian counterpart Jason Clare on Monday, and both countries signed an agreement of increasing student and faculty exchange programs. Minister said that the two countries have more than 450 tie ups and have agreed to conduct more research in areas like minerals, logistics, agriculture, renewal energy, healthcare, water management, and artificial intelligence.

 

India-Australia Education Ministers signed 450+ tie-ups, boosting chances for Indian Students!

 

November 2, 2023

Tasmania overseas applicants nominations

Tasmania will nominate you for Overseas Applicant pathway OSOP if you live outside of Australia and you hold a job offer from an employer in Tasmania. There is more possibility for nominations if you receive job offer in health or Allied health professions.

October 25, 2023

Details of the nominations in Skilled work Regional Subclass 490 visa; 2023-2024

The Government of Northern Territory has announced the details of the nominations for applications in the Skilled work Regional Subclass 490 visa for the year 2023-2024, starting from 23^rd October, 2023. Applicants need to be aware of many changes that are made in the eligibility criteria; as for Exclusion of NT Graduates, NT Residents work requirement, and limited offshore priority occupation stream.

October 25, 2023

Migration Tasmania processing times and nomination places; October 25

Migration Tasmania selection process is done on the basis of Registrations of Interest, with 30 invitations that are issued weekly only the most competitive ones are chosen for the nomination. The new plan is to provide outcome for applications within 10 days. 239 nominations have been used out of 600 places for Skilled Nomination visa, and 178 nominations have been used for Skilled Regional Work visa.

September 29, 2023

FY 23-24 South Australia Skilled Migration Nomination Program Open for all. Apply now! 

The Skilled Migration State Nomination Program for 2023-2024 is now accepting eligible candidates in South Australia, featuring several updates from the previous fiscal year. South Australia Migration has adopted a Registration of Interest (ROI) system to effectively handle the overwhelming volume of applications, given the limited availability of nominations.

There is a particular focus on prioritizing the retention of international graduates and temporary visa holders who are currently in South Australia. These industries include:

• Trades and Construction
• Defence
• Health
• Education
• Natural and Physical Science
• Welfare Professionals

 

South Australia Skilled Migration Program is open for FY 2023-24 nominations. Register now!

September 27, 2023

NSW will focus on priority sectors rather than skilled occupation lists from now! 

NSW will focus on priority sectors rather than skilled occupation lists. As per the FY 2023-24, NSW will focus on the Target sector groups, which include the following:  

• Health
• Education
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Infrastructure
• Agriculture

The Australian government plans to focus on key sectors, and the high-ranking EOIs submitted in non-priority sectors may also be considered based on the workforce demands.

September 20, 2023

Canberra Matrix Invitation Round invites 285 applicants

ACT held the Canberra Matrix Draw and issued 285 invitations on September 15, 2023. The details of the no. of invitations issued to Canberra residents and overseas applicants are given in the below table: 

An Overview of the Canberra Matrix Invitation Rounds in September 2023
Date of invitations issued	Type of applicants	For	No of. Invitations Issued	Matrix scores
September 15, 2023	Canberra residents	ACT 190 Nomination	55	90-100
		ACT 491 Nomination	58	65-75
	Overseas applicants	ACT 190 Nomination	43	NA
		ACT 491 Nomination	130	NA

September 16, 2023

WA State Nominated Migration Program Invitations issued to 487 candidates 

Intending visa subclass	General stream	Graduate stream	Graduate stream
	WASMOL	Higher education	Vocational education and training
​Visa subclass 190	302	150	35
Visa subclass 491	–	–	–

September 15, 2023

Queenslands FY 2023-24 Program Update

Queensland is accepting applications for its state nomination under the skilled migration program for the 2023-24 Fiscal Year. However, in FY 2023-24, the Department of Home Affairs allocated 1,550 skilled nominations. Invitation rounds will be held in September 2023 and continue every month, with capped invitations to maintain fairness.

September 12, 2023

FY 2023-24 Victoria’s Skilled Migration Program is now open. Apply now!

The 2023-24 program is now accepting applications from individuals residing in Victoria as well as those from abroad. This program offers skilled migrants a path to get a Permanent Residency in Victoria. One must file a Registration of Interest (ROI) to be eligible for a state nomination.

On-shore applicants can apply for a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491), and off-shore applicants can apply for a Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) in FY 2023-24. 

September 04, 2023

Australia’s Covid-era visa (Subclass 408 visa) will no longer exist from February 2024

Australia’s Covid-era visa will be stopped from February 2024, the Aussie government announced recently. The Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles said, “From February 2024, the visa will be closed to all applicants. This will provide certainty to our visa system now that the circumstances that drove the operation of the visa no longer exist.”

August 31, 2023

Australia Immigration Plan Levels FY 2023-24

The 2023-24 Permanent Migration Program has a planning level of 190,000, emphasizing skilled migrants. The Program has an approximately 70:30 split between skilled and family visas.

Australia Immigration Plan 2023-24
Stream	Immigration numbers	Percentage
Family stream	52,500	28
Skill stream	1,37,000	72
Total	1,90,000

*Partner and Child visa categories are demand-driven and not subject to a ceiling.

Discover How to Migrate to Australia..

August 25, 2023

Australian Visas for GPs program will cease on 16 September 2023

The “Visas for GPs” initiative will conclude on 16 September 2023, eliminating the need for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) employers to secure a Health Workforce Certificate (HWC). Starting from 16 September 2023, when employers in Australia intend to nominate IMGs for primary care roles, they will no longer need to include a HWC in their nomination submission.

August 21, 2023

New amendments in immigration by Western Australian – Simplified Pathways for Skilled Migrants

From July 1, 2023, the Western Australian (WA) Government has introduced changes to the eligibility criteria for the WA State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP).

• Implement an invitation ranking system treating both Interstate and Overseas candidates equally.
• Prioritize invitations for candidates with occupations crucial to WA’s industry sectors, according to the WA State nomination invitation ranking system.
• Lessen employment requirements for invitees from WA’s building and construction sector (based on WA State nomination Occupation lists).
• The expected start of invitation rounds for 2023-24 is August 2023.

August 18, 2023

Australia Global Talent Visa assessment fee update

The assessment fee for Australia Global Talent Visa for overseas applicants is $835 (excluding GST) and for Australian applicants it is $918.50 (including GST).

August 17, 2023

Australian visas are now processed within 16-21 days. Apply now for faster visa approvals!

The Australian Department of Home Affairs recently announced that the processes have led to reductions in visa processing times across various categories. The processing time for Australian Student Visas has been reduced to 16 days. The earlier processing time was up to 49 days. The Temporary Skilled Shortage 482 visas are now processed in 21 days.

 

Australian visas are now processed within 16-21 days. Apply now for faster visa approvals!

August 01, 2023

List of courses revealed for students to receive extended Australia post-study work rights

There are over 3,000 eligible courses available for International graduates who have enrolled in these courses can get an additional two years added to their Temporary Graduate visa. 

July 30, 2023

A new fee of $3,374 for AAT migration review applications will be applicable from July 01, 2023

From 1 July 2023, the application fee for review of a migration decision under Part 5 of the Migration Act 1958 increased to $3,374.

July 26, 2023

Australia-India Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement

Australia and India have established a significant Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA), setting a new precedent for cooperation on migration matters. The MMPA reconfirms the currently available visa options that enable movement and migration between the two nations – covering students, visitors, business individuals, and other professionals – and introduces a fresh mobility pathway. This new route, known as the Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES), is designed specifically for Indian graduates and early-stage professionals.

July 14, 2023

Canberra Matrix Invitation Round: 14 July 2023

ACT Invitation Round held on 14 July 2023 issued 822 invitations. 

Canberra residents	190 nominations	491 nominations
Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	18 invitations	6 invitations
Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	8 invitations	3 invitations
Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	138 invitations	88 invitations
Overseas applicants
Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	299 invitations	262 invitations

June 23, 2023

Subclass 191 Visa Application fee increase effective from 1st July 2023

Subclass 191 Permanent Residence Regional – if applications for the SC 191 visa can be made by both primary and secondary SC 491 visa holders. The regulations do not stipulate that a primary applicant for a subclass 191 visa must have been either the primary or secondary applicant in the provisional visa application. Therefore, a subclass 491 visa holder can apply for a subclass 191 visa if they meet the relevant requirements, regardless of whether they were granted the subclass 491 visa as the primary or secondary applicant. 

Subclass Visa Type	Applicant	Fee Effective from 1st July 23	Current visa fee
Subclass 189	Main Applicant	AUD 4640	AUD 4240
	Applicant above 18 yrs	AUD 2320	AUD 2115
	Applicant below 18 yrs	AUD 1160	AUD 1060
Subclass 190	Main Applicant	AUD 4640	AUD 4240
	Applicant above 18 yrs	AUD 2320	AUD 2115
	Applicant below 18 yrs	AUD 1160	AUD 1060
Subclass 491	Main Applicant	AUD 4640	AUD 4240
	Applicant above 18 yrs	AUD 2320	AUD 2115
	Applicant below 18 yrs	AUD 1160	AUD 1060

 

June 03, 2023

India and Australia’s New Pact promises new work visas

Last week India and Australia signed a mobility and migration partnership pact. This partnership opens up many opportunities for educational researchers, students, and business people. This new scheme offers Indian graduates who have gained their education from any Australian tertiary institute on a student visa they can easily apply to pursue professional development and work in Australia. They can apply without any visa sponsorship for up to eight years.

May 23, 2023

Australia issued invitations during 2022-23 program year 

Visa subclass	Number
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)	7353
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family Sponsored	74

May 23, 2023 

Australia announced expanded Pathways to PR for Subclass TSS Visa Holders

Australian government increased Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold to $70,000. This is applicable from 1st July 2023. Temporary Residents Transition pathway of subclass 186 visa will be open to all TSS visa holders till end of 2023.

Australia increased Temporary Skilled Income Threshold to $70,000 and expanded TR to PR pathways

May 17, 2023 

Australian to scrap Covid visa. What do Indian temporary workers and students need to do?

The Australian Government to scarp Covid work visa. Indian students and temporary workers with COVID visas in Australia can stay till December 31, 2023. International students working in the aged care sector will be exempted from this cap until December 31, 2023.

May 16, 2023 

Australia invited 400,000+ overseas immigrants till date in FY 2022-23 

Australia’s net overseas immigration level crossed 400,000, which is more than double compared to the immigration plan for FY 2022-23. The country might invite more candidates as it has 800,000 job vacancies.

May 04, 2023 

Australia announced ‘Direct citizenship pathway for New Zealanders from 1 July 2023’

​From 1 July 2023, New Zealanders living in Australia for four years are eligible to apply for Australian citizenship directly. They no longer need to apply for an Australia PR visa to get citizenship.

May 02, 2023 

Changes in Australia’s Immigration Policy: New Visas and Regulations for 2023-24 

Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil has released the long-awaited review in its immigration policies. Many changes will be taking place like increasing of the salary threshold for immigrants, all the skilled temporary workers will get to apply for Australia PR, introduction of immediate graduate visa for international students, etc.  

Changes in Australia’s Immigration Policy: New Visas and Regulations for 2023-24

May 04, 2023 

Australia announced ‘Direct citizenship pathway for New Zealanders from 1 July 2023’ ​

From 1 July 2023, New Zealanders living in Australia for four years are eligible to apply for Australian citizenship directly. They no longer need to apply for an Australia PR visa to get citizenship.

May 02, 2023 

Changes in Australia’s Immigration Policy: New Visas and Regulations for 2023-24 

Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil has released the long-awaited review in its immigration policies. Many changes will be taking place like increasing of the salary threshold for immigrants, all the skilled temporary workers will get to apply for Australia PR, introduction of immediate graduate visa for international students, etc.    

Changes in Australia’s Immigration Policy: New Visas and Regulations for 2023-24

April 1, 2023

1,800 Indian chefs and yoga instructors to receive 4-year visas under the Australia-India treaty

India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) took effect on March 30. Under this agreement, 1,800 Indian chefs and yoga instructors will be allowed to live, work and stay in Australia for up to 4 years. It is expected to magnify India-Australia bilateral trade from $31 billion to over $45-50 billion in 5 years.

1,800 Indian chefs and yoga instructors to receive 4-year visas under the Australia-India treaty

March 08, 2023

‘Indian Degrees will be recognized in Australia,’ Anthony Albanese

The Australian prime minister announced a scholarship for Indians to study in Australia after the “Australia-India Education Qualification Recognition Mechanism” program was finalized between India & Australia. The commercial opportunities offered by Australian education give Indians a more convenient and innovative education system for Indian students. The Deakin University of Australia plans to set up a foreign branch in the GIFT city of Gujarat, India.

‘Indian Degrees will be recognised in Australia,’ Anthony Albanese

March 07, 2023 New GSM Skills Assessment policy accepts 60-day invitation period. Apply now!

Australia has announced new policies for candidates in the skilled migration category. The government of Australia has announced changes in the immigration policies for candidates in the Skilled Migration category. As per the update, the candidates will be eligible to apply for visas through the category of General Skilled Migration if they have a skill assessment report of their nominated occupation. They are required to apply under 60 days of being issued the invitation to apply for the visa.

New GSM Skills Assessment policy accepts 60-day invitation period. Apply now!

March 06, 2023

New Zealand launches ‘Recovery Visa’, eased policies for overseas professionals

Recovery Visa has been introduced by the New Zealand government to accelerate the entry of overseas specialists who can help to recover the country from the current weather-related disasters. A Recovery Visa is a New Zealander visa to enable skilled workers to enter the country immediately and support the on-going tragedy in different ways like, direct recovery support, risk assessment, emergency response, infrastructure and housing stabilization and repair, and clean-up.

March 03, 2023

Australia and India signed a framework for easy immigration paths for professionals & students. Apply now!

India and Australia signed an agreement to recognize the qualifications to ease mobility for international professionals and students. India and Australia signed an agreement at the 2nd India-Australia Virtual Summit held on March 21, 2022. The agreement is a comprehensive mechanism for the reciprocal recognition of qualifications. It will help streamline the mobility of professionals and students in India and Australia.

February 22, 2023

Canberra Matrix draw issued 919 invitations on February 22, 2023

Australia held its 3^rd Canberra Matrix and issued 919 invitations. The draw was held on February 22, 2023, and candidates were invited to apply for ACT Nominations. The invitations were issued to Overseas applicants and Canberra residents under Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas. The details can be found in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	24	75
		491 nominations	1	70
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	7	NA
		491 nominations	1	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	322	NA
		491 nominations	156	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	13	NA
		491 nominations	395	NA

 

Canberra Matrix draw issued 919 invitations on February 22, 2023 

February 24, 2023 

International grads can now work in Australia for 4 years with the extended Post Study Work Permit Australia will introduce cap on working hours for international students from July 1, 2023. The working hours for students will increase for 40 hours to 48 hours per fortnight. This cap will help the students to support themselves financially by more earnings. Work restrictions on student visas were removed in January 2022 so that students can work for 40 hours each fortnight. This cap will come to an end on June 30 and new cap will come into effect from July 1, 2023. The post study work rights will be extended by two years on their Temporary Graduate Visa. Extensions for other degrees can be found in the table below:

Degree	Extension in post degree work rights
Bachelor	2 to 4
Masters	3 to 5
Doctoral	4 to 6

January 23, 2023 

Second Australia Canberra Draw in 2023, invited 632 candidates Australia held its second Canberra Matrix draw in 2023, in which 632 candidates were invited to apply for ACT nomination. The cut off score for this draw was between 65 and 75. Candidates can later apply for Australia PR after residing for some years in the country. The invitations were issued to Canberra residents and Overseas Applicants through the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas. The details of the draw can be found in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	9	75
		491 nominations	3	65
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	200	NA
		491 nominations	99	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	17	NA
		491 nominations	303	NA

The total number of invitations issued to Canberra residents and overseas applicants can be found in the table below:

Immigrants	Number of invitations
Canberra Residents	312
Overseas Applicants	320

The number of invitations issued under the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 visas can be found in the table below:

Visa	Number of invitations
Subclass 190	227
Subclass 491	405

January 13, 2023 

Australia Canberra Matrix draw issued 734 invitations for ACT Nomination A recent Canberra Matrix draw held by Australia on January 13, 2022, invited 734 candidates to submit applications for ACT nomination. Canberra Residents and Overseas Applicants received the invitations. The cut-off score for this draw was between 70 and 85. The table below reveals the details of the total number of Canberra Residents and Overseas Applicants invited in this draw:

Immigrants	Number of invitations
Canberra Residents	290
Overseas Applicants	444

The total number of invitations for subclass 190 and subclass 491 can be found in the table below:

Visa	Number of invitations
Subclass 190	262
Subclass 491	472

The full details of the draw can be found in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	11	85
		491 nominations	3	70
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	2	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	162	NA
		491 nominations	112	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	87	NA
		491 nominations	357	NA

December 23, 2022 

Australia is in dire need of Teachers and Nurses. Granting Visas within few days! Apply now! Australia will not use PMSOL to rank the skilled visas. PMSOL has a wide range of occupations, and the step to remove the list will help in inviting more immigrants to meet the challenge of skill shortage in Australia. According to the Department of Home Affairs, the skilled visas for Teachers and Nurses will be issued within 3 days. The highly prioritized occupations are listed below:

• School teachers
• Child care workers and child care center managers
• Aged and disabled carers
• Counselors and psychologists
• Medical scientists
• Medical technicians
• Nursing support workers
• Social workers

The skilled visas for which candidates can apply are listed in the table below:

Subclass	Visa
Subclass 482	Temporary Skill Shortage visa
Subclass 494	Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Provisional visa
Subclass 186	Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Subclass 189	Skilled – Independent Points-tested stream visa
Subclass 190	Skilled – Nominated visa
Subclass 491	Skilled Work Regional Provisional visa
Subclass 191	Permanent Residence Skilled Regional visa
Subclass 187	Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa
Subclass 124	Distinguished Talent visa
Subclass 858	Global Talent visa
Subclass 887	Skilled — Regional visa
Subclass 188	Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa
Subclass 888	Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa

Australia is in dire need of Teachers and Nurses. Granting Visas within few day! Apply now! 

December 22, 2022 

Australia Canberra draw invited 563 candidates to apply for ACT nomination Australia Canberra Matrix draw invited 563 candidates to apply for ACT nomination. The cut-off score for this draw was 85. The invited candidates can later apply for an Australia PR visa. The table below reveals the details of the draw:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	7	85
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	8	NA
		491 nominations	1	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	171	NA
		491 nominations	64	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	81	NA
		491 nominations	231	NA

The invitations were issued to the following

• Canberra residents
• Overseas applicants

The details of invitations can be found in the table below:

Immigrants	Number of invitations
Canberra Residents	251
Overseas Applicants	312

 Australia Canberra draw invited 563 candidates to apply for ACT nomination 

December 19, 2022 

Australia’s visa tribunal will be abolished in 2023 The government of Australia has planned to abolish the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) in 2023. A new body will be created in its place and 75 more people will be added. The responsibility of AAT was to make decisions related to the refugee and migrant visas. Mark Dreyfus said that the appointments of the candidates will be made on the basis of merit. Members of AAT have to reapply after the creation of the new body at the end of 2023.

 Australia’s visa tribunal will be abolished in 2023 

December 17, 2022 

Australia welcomed 171,000 immigrants in FY 2021-2022 Australia issued 171,000 invitations in FY 2022-2023. Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed that there was a rise in national migrants arrivals by 171 percent. An increase in the number of immigrants can be found in different provinces and the details can be found in the table below:

State	Number of immigrants
NSW	62,210
Vic.	55,630
Qld	23,430
SA	12,080
WA	9,500
ACT	3,120.00
Tas.	2,740
NT	2,130.00

In comparison to FY 2020-2021, the number of immigrants also increased in FY 2021-2022 and the details can be found in the table below:

Visas	FY 2020-2021	FY 2021-2022
Temporary	29,600	2,39,000
Permanent	37,000	67,900

Australia welcomed 171,000 immigrants in FY 2021-2022 

December 16, 2022 

Western Australia Invitation Round: 5,006 candidates were invited Western Australia issued 5,006 invitations on December 16, 2022. The invitations were issued for the following visas:

• Subclass 190
• Subclass 491

The number of invitations for Subclass 190 visa was 2,365 and for Subclass 490, it was 2,641. The draw was held under the State Nominated Migration Program. The table below reveals the details of the draw:

Intending visa subclass	SNMP General stream –WASMOL schedule 1	SNMP General stream –WASMOL schedule 2	SNMP Graduate stream – higher education graduates	SNMP Graduate stream – vocational education and training graduates
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)	194	1053	814	304
Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)	194	1915	269	263

Western Australia started inviting candidates and since August 2022 till now, 16,085 invitations were issued. Invitations issued in each class, stream, and month can be found in the table below:

Stream	Visa Subclass	August	September	October	November	December
SNMP General stream – WASMOL schedule 1	190	159	373	531	510	194
	491	41	127	822	458	194
SNMP General stream – WASMOL schedule 2	190	83	195	563	463	1053
	491	117	263	938	1037	1915
SNMP Graduate Stream – higher education graduates	190	97	241	959	1069	814
	491	53	129	313	327	269
SNMP Graduate stream – vocational education and training graduates	190	12	63	241	376	304
	491	38	62	159	260	263
Total		600	1453	4526	4500	5006

Western Australia Invitation Round: 5,006 candidates were invited

 December 15, 2022 

NSW says, ‘No points and work experience required for subclass 190 visa.’ Apply now! New South Wales received 12,000 migration slots in 2022-2023. It also announced minimum points scores and work experience for the visas:

• Subclass 190
• Subclass 491

According to an update released by NSW, no score and work experience will be required for Subclass 190. The requirements have been removed as there was an increase in the availability of the Subclass 189 visa also known as the Skilled Independent visa. Selection-based invitation process will be used to align NSW nominees with the skills shortage of the state’s economy. The minimum points score and work experience requirement will still be used for Subclass 491. Migration experts welcomed the decision of removal of points and work experience requirements from Subclass 190 visa. The requirements have been removed after a large number of applicants were invited through Subclass 189. 

 NSW says, ‘No points and work experience required for subclass 190 visa.’ Apply now! 

December 08, 2022

 No PMSOL. Highest priority to Healthcare and teaching occupations, applying outside Australia Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) has been removed for certain types of skilled visas in Australia. The Minister of Immigration introduced Ministerial Direction 100 which is a replacement for PMSOL. The new rule will be implemented immediately and priority will be given to the candidates applying from outside Australia for healthcare and teaching occupations. Here is the list of skilled visas for which PMSOL has been removed:

Subclass	Visa
Subclass 482	Temporary Skill Shortage visa
Subclass 494	Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Provisional visa
Subclass 186	Employer Nomination Scheme visa
Subclass 189	Skilled – Independent Points-tested stream visa
Subclass 190	Skilled – Nominated visa
Subclass 491	Skilled Work Regional Provisional visa
Subclass 191	Permanent Residence Skilled Regional visa
Subclass 187	Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa
Subclass 124	Distinguished Talent visa
Subclass 858	Global Talent visa
Subclass 887	Skilled — Regional visa
Subclass 188	Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa
Subclass 888	Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa

The Department of Immigration is compiling all the priorities in one direction in order to speed up the application processing time. Streamlining health requirements is also a part of the amendments. Employers need to note that due to the implementation of these changes, application processing may be affected.

No PMSOL. Highest priority to Healthcare and teaching occupations, applying outside Australia 

November 25, 2022 

Western Australia Invitation Round: 4,500 candidates were invited Western Australia issued invitations to 4,500 candidates under the State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP).  These invitations are issued for candidates under Subclass 190 & Subclass 491. The streams that were targeted were under SNMP General Stream and SNMP Graduate stream.

Western Australia Invitation Round: 4500 candidates were invited 

November 14, 2022 

Canberra Matrix draw issued 441 invitations to apply for ACT nominations  Australia invited 441 candidates through the Canberra Matrix draw to send applications for ACT nomination. The draw held on November 14, 2022 invited 194 Canberra residents and 247 Overseas Applicants. The score ranged between 65 and 85. The details of the draw can be found in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	10	85
		491 nominations	0	65
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	NA	NA
		491 nominations	NA	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	79	NA
		491 nominations	105	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	18	NA
		491 nominations	229	NA

Australia issued 441 invitations to apply for ACT nominations through Canberra Matrix draw 

October 31, 2022 

ACT issued 425 invitations through Australia Canberra Matrix Draw on October 31, 2022 On October 31, 2022, a new draw has been held by Australia for ACT nomination. The invitations were issued to 425 candidates under the Canberra Matrix draw. The invitations issued to Overseas Applicants and Canberra Residents can be found in the table below:

Immigrants	Number of invitations
Canberra Residents	204
Overseas Applicants	221

Here are the details of the draw in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	15	90
		491 nominations	2	70
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	NA	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	70	NA
		491 nominations	116	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	7	NA
		491 nominations	214	NA

 ACT issued 425 invitations through Australia Canberra Matrix Draw on October 31, 2022 

October 28, 2022 

Australia to issue more parent and skilled visas with increased budgets The Australian government has plans to increase the number of parent visas which can be almost double the current number. The number of skilled visas will also be increased. DHA will receive $576 over the four years for the processing of visas, maintenance of the offshore processing center, and supporting refugees. The immigration cap has been raised from 160,000 to 195,000 to invite more immigrants. Skilled visa numbers will be increased from 79,600 to 142,400 while parent visas will increase from 4,500 to 8,500. The humanitarian visa program will get 13,750 places and 16,500 places will be available for Afghan refugees over four years. Around 500 places will; be given for the other family visas and 100 special eligibility visas will also be available.

Australia to issue more parent and skilled visas with increased budgets 

October 22, 2022 

Western Australia Invitation Round: 4526 candidates were invited Western Australia invited 4,526 candidates under different streams. The invitations were issued under Visa Subclass 190 and 491. Under Visa subclass 491, invitations were issued to 2,294 candidates while 2,232 candidates were invited under Visa Subclass 491. The score range for this draw is between 65 and 85. Here is the table to show the details of the draw:

​Intending visa subclass	SNMP General stream –WASMOL schedule 1	EOI Points	​SNMP General stream –WASMOL schedule 2	EOI Points	SNMP Graduate stream – higher education graduates	EOI Points	​SNMP Graduate stream – vocational education and training graduates	EOI Points
​Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)	531	65	563	85	959	70	241	70
​Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)	822		938		313		159
Total candidates invited	4526

Western Australia Invitation Round: 4526 candidates were invited 

October 17, 2022 

Australia Canberra Matrix Draw issued 467 invitations Australia held a Canberra Matrix draw on October 17, 2022, in which 467 candidates were invited to submit applications for ACT nominations. Invitations were issued to

• Canberra Residents: 193
• Overseas Applicants: 274

These candidates can, later on, apply for Australia PR. The draw details are available in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	15	90
		491 nominations	2	70
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	NA	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	74	NA
		491 nominations	101	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	20	NA
		491 nominations	254	NA

 Australia Canberra Matrix Draw issued 467 invitations 

October 13, 2022 

Victoria Immigration Program update – 2249 ROIs Selected Victoria selected 2249 ROIs, details for the year 2022-23 as follows:

Types of visas	Places allotted to VIC	ROIs received	ROIs Selected	Application Submitted for Nomination
Subclass-190	9000	18,265	1,820	1,173
Subclass-491	2400	6,059	459	112

Subclass 190 – Total 1,820

• Onshore applicants – 1,115
• Offshore applicants – 705

Subclass 491 – Total 459

• Onshore applicants – 403
• Offshore applicants – 56

October 12, 2022 

Australia to cap work hours for international students from June 2023 Australia is planning to restrict the working hours for international students. The unrestricted work rights for students in Australia will come to an end on June 30, 2022. The working hours will be revised so that the right balance between work and study can be set. The Australian government has relaxed the working hours for students for a temporary period from January 2022. Step has been taken to tackle the challenge of the shortage of workers. Prior to the relaxation, the working hours for students were 40 hours a fortnight. The changes in rules will also allow the students to stay more time in Australia. The table below provides the full detail:

Degree	Time
Bachelor’s	4 years
Master’s	5 years
PhD	6 years

Australia to cap work hours for international students from June 2023 

October 06, 2022 

DHA Round of invitations – 12532 candidates were invited Individuals who received the highest points have been invited to submit applications for relevant visas. If scores of some candidates are identical, invitations will be decided on the basis of the dates at which their points score have reached. The number of candidates invited along with the score can be found in the table below:

Visa subclass	Number	Cut-off score
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)	11,714	65
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family Sponsored	818	65

October 01, 2022 

Biggest DHA Invitation Round – 12,666 candidates were invited It was announced that during the 2022-23 program year Invitation rounds for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) and Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), which are Family-Sponsored visas, will be held regularly. The number of Invitations in each round will differ based on the number of applications that the Department processes. Nominations of state or territory governments for skilled visas will not get affected by the invitation rounds of the departments. The current round of invitations issued a total of 12,666 invitations under Subclass 189 and 491:

Category	Invitations	Minimum  points
Subclass 189	12200 Invitations	65
Subclass 491	466 Invitations (Family Sponsored)	65

State and Territory nominations 2022-23 program year 

Visa subclass	ACT	NSW	NT	Qld	SA	Tas.	Vic.	WA
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)	124	30	21	43	62	219	379	0
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) State and Territory Nominated	228	<20	37	32	95	245	<20	<20
Business Innovation and Investment (provisional) visa (subclass 188)	<20	<20	0	209	0	0	35	21

September 26, 2022 

ACT issued 354 invitations in the latest Canberra Matrix draw Australia held its third Canberra Matrix draw and the invited candidates can apply for ACT Nominations. Invitations have been issued to the following

• Canberra residents who applied from inside Australia received 159 invitations
• Overseas Applicants who applied from outside Australia received 195 invitations

The details of the draw can be found in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	0	NA
		491 nominations	3	70
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	2	NA
		491 nominations	NA	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	71	NA
		491 nominations	83	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	20	NA
		491 nominations	175	NA

ACT issued 354 invitations in the latest Canberra Matrix draw 

September 19, 2022 

Australia welcomed more than 2.60 lakh students till July 2022 More than 2.60 lakhs students arrived in Australia after the restrictions of the pandemic lifted up. Australia has also started a new program for Indian students. The aim of this program is to boost the skill related to employment. A roadshow has been conducted by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission in which information related to study in Australia was provided. The roadshow was also held for providing information regarding scholarships and visas. 

Australia welcomed more than 2.60 lakh students till July 2022 

September 19, 2022 

Highlights of the New Australia Immigration Level Plan 2022-2023

• Australia will increase the immigration cap from 160,000 to 195,000 in the current fiscal year.
• Neil, the Home Affairs Minister, made the announcement at the two-day summit.
• The summit was attended by 140 representatives of governments, businesses, trade unions, and industries.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced at the summit that 180,000 free places will be left for vocational education schools.
• The permanent resident target in Australia increased from 160,000 to 195,000
• The Australian states have decided to open the skill migration program for the FY 2022-23 for onshore and offshore applications.
• Foreign nationals are advised to complete their skill assessment and obtain the required English proficiency scores to get eligible for sponsorship.

An announcement has been made by the Australian government on Friday that the permanent immigration has been increased by 35,000. The immigration target has increased from 160,000 to 195,000 in the current fiscal year. The following table depicts the allocation for each state for the FY 2022-23:

State	Skilled Nomination (Subclass 190) Visa	Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) Visa
ACT	2,025	2,025
NSW	9,108	6,168
NT	600	1400
QLD	3,000	2,000
SA	2,700	5,300
TAS	2,000	2,250
VIC	11,500	3,400
WA	5,350	2,790
Total	36,238	25,333

September 13, 2022 

Australia’s Canberra Matrix draw issued 208 invitations Australia issued 208 invitations to apply for ACT nominations. The invitations were issued under Canberra Matrix draw for overseas applicants and Canberra residents. The invitations issued to Canberra residents were 80 while overseas applicants received 128 invitations. The table below reveals the details of the draw:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	3	90
		491 nominations	NA	NA
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	5	NA
		491 nominations	NA	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	23	NA
		491 nominations	49	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	11	NA
		491 nominations	117	NA

Australia’s Canberra Matrix draw issued 208 invitations 

September 13, 2022 

What is Australia’s ‘golden ticket’ visa and why is it in news? Australia Significant Investor visa is also termed a golden ticket visa and subclass 188. Candidates having this visa have to make an investment in the approved funds. Successful candidates can live in Australia for five years. This visa will also provide a pathway to apply for Australia PR. The visa was introduced by the Gillard government in 2012 and many changes have been made to it. 

What is Australia’s ‘golden ticket’ visa and why is it in news? 

September 06, 2022 

Australia allows international students to work 2 additional years Australia allows students to stay for two more years after their graduation to work in the country. This rule will help in attracting more students to study in Australia. Students with Bachelor’s degrees will be allowed to work for four years. Previously, the staying period was only two years. Students with a Master’s degree can stay up to five years. Previously, the staying period was three years. Ph.D. students can stay up to six years while previously they could stay only for four years. The table below will reveal the data regarding stays for different degree holders.

Degree holders	Number of years of stay	Number of years of stay previously
Bachelor’s	4	2
Master’s	5	3
PhD	6	4

 Australia allows international students to work 2 additional years 

September 05, 2022 

Australia plans to increase the pay of temporary skilled migrants in 2022 Australia has made a plan to increase the income threshold for temporary migrants. The government has announced that it is going to raise the income threshold from AUD 53,900 to AUD 65,000. The government has also announced at the summit that the cap of permanent migrants will be raised by 35,000. It will go up to 195,000 from the current cap of 160,000. The government has raised the cap to meet the challenges of skills shortage in Australia. 

Australia plans to increase the pay of temporary skilled migrants in 2022 

September 02, 2022 

Australia increases permanent immigration target from 160,000 to 195,000 for 2022-23 Australia held a summit in which O’Neil the Home Affairs Minister announced the increase of the permanent immigration target. The target has been increased from 160,000 to 195,000. The summit was held for two days and 140 representatives participated in it. The announcement for the increase has been made for the current fiscal year which will end on June 30, 2022. Australia has increased the target as the country is facing challenges to fulfill the job market demands. Nurses are doing double or triple shifts while flights are being canceled because of the shortage of staff. 

Australia increases permanent immigration target from 160,000 to 195,000 for 2022-23 

August 30, 2022 

Canberra Matrix draw invites 256 Candidates to apply for ACT nominations Australia held the fourth Canberra Matrix draw and invites 256 candidates to apply for ACT nominations. Canberra residents received 12 invitations while Overseas Applicants received 144 invitations. The draw was held on August 30, 2022. The details of the draw can be found in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	1	95
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	5	NA
		491 nominations	NA	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	33	NA
				NA
		491 nominations	73	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	12	NA
		491 nominations	132	NA

Canberra Matrix draw invites 256 Candidates to apply for ACT nominations 

August 27, 2022 

Increase migration cap in Australia to manage manpower shortages – The Business Council A new summit is to be held in the first week of September. The summit will be organized for two days in which challenges related to toe immigration will be discussed. The business council has planned to increase the cap up to 220,000 but later it recommended the cap up to 190,000. Jennifer Westacott said about the necessity of boosting up of permanent migration program. The program should be enhanced up to at least two-thirds of the skilled workers. 

Increase migration cap in Australia to manage manpower shortages – The Business Council 

August 25, 2022 

Australia jobs and skill summit to make immigration easier The unemployment rate in Australia went to a low level and there is a need for overseas skilled workers to meet the challenge of skill shortage. Australia jobs and skills summit is to be held in September in which various challenges related to the immigration will be discussed. Many agendas have to be discussed and they are listed below:

• Australia Immigration Program
• Growing wages
• Australia bargaining system

The summit will be held for two days so all the challenges cannot be discussed. The main agenda to be discussed is raising the cap for skilled immigrants and processing of the visa application backlog.

Australia jobs and skill summit to make immigration easier 

August 24, 2022 

Australia needs more workers for these jobs and the answer is relaxed immigration policies Australia is facing the problem of shortage of skilled workers for a long time. Federal government has announced that there is a demand for construction managers, chefs, and nurses, among the ten jobs. Some of the jobs in Australia in the future are listed below:

• Construction managers
• Civil engineering professionals
• Early childhood teachers
• Registered nurses
• ICT
• Software and applications programmers
• Electricians
• Chefs
• Child carers
• Aged and disability carers

August 23, 2022 

Canberra Matrix draw was held on August 23, 2022. In this draw, the number of candidates invited is 250. These candidates can apply for ACT nomination. The invitations have been issued to Canberra residents and overseas applicants. Canberra residents received 101 invitations while overseas applicants received 149 invitations/. The table below will show display the details of the draw:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	NA	NA
		491 nominations	1	75
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	16	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	26	NA
				NA
		491 nominations	58	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	10	NA
		491 nominations	139	NA

Canberra Matrix draw invited 250 candidates to apply for ACT nomination 

August 17, 2022 

Australia Skilled Migration Program FY 2022-23, is open for offshore applicants Australia has opened its borders 2.5 years ago after the pandemic. Few states started sponsoring applicants but with some conditions. Now Australia is opening interim allocation for FY 2022-2023 for onshore and offshore applicants. There are a few states that have to update the criteria and applications. These are some of the updates which can motivate the clients to go for English proficiency test and skill assessment. Candidates have to become eligible before the closure of the quota

For more information, visit Australia Skilled Migration Program FY 2022-23, is open for offshore applicants 

August 16, 2022 

Australia is planning to increase the immigration cap to invite skilled workers Australia is facing the challenge of skills shortage and it has planned to increase the immigration cap which is currently 160,000. The new cap will be announced in the government’s jobs and skills summit and will be shared among trade unions and employers. The number of job vacancies available in Australia is 480,100 in May 2022. The main sectors which are facing shortages include:

• Healthcare
• IT industry
• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Tourism
• Tech Industry
• Healthcare

Australia is planning to increase immigration cap to invite skilled workers 

August 15, 2022 

Australia Canberra Matrix draw issued 265 invitations to apply for ACT Nominations Australia issued invitations to 265 candidates so that they can apply for ACT nomination. The draw was held on August 15, 2022 and Canberra and overseas residents were invited in this draw. The number of Canberra residents invited is 99 and the number of overseas residents is 166. The table below provides the details of the draw:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	2	95
		491 nominations	2	75
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	0	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	24	NA
				NA
		491 nominations	71	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	17	NA
		491 nominations	149	NA

Australia is planning to increase immigration cap to invite skilled workers 

August 10, 2022 

Australia Canberra Matrix draw issued 338 invitations for ACT Nomination On August 10, 2022, a new Canberra Matrix draw has been held in which invitations have been issued to 338 candidates. The candidates have been invited to apply for ACT nominations. There are different factors on which the cut-off score depends and they include time of matrix submission, occupation cap and demand, and remaining monthly allocation. The table below will reveal the details of the draw:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	4	95
		491 nominations	1	75
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	3	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	29	NA
				NA
		491 nominations	61	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	40	NA
		491 nominations	199	NA

For more information, visit Australia Canberra Matrix draw issued 338 invitations for ACT Nomination 

July 22, 2022 

Australia immigration program levels 2022-23 A new migration program for 2022-2023 has been designed to boost the economic recovery of Australia. The plan includes invitations to 160,000 candidates. The invitations will be sent under two categories which include:

• Skill

For the skill stream, 109,000 places have been decided. The stream has been introduced for the improvement of the productive capacity of the economy. This will help in the filling of job vacancies under skill shortages.

• Family

This stream has been designed for Partner visas. This will help in reuniting the families and the applicants will also get a chance to apply for Australian citizenship.

• In the duration of 2022-2023, partner visas will be given preference to reunite the families. This will reduce the processing time for the partner visas.
• For planning purposes in 2022-2023, there is an estimation of 40,500 partner visas. It should be noted that the number will not reach the ceiling
• Another visa for planning purposes in 2022-2023 is a Child visa whose number is 3,000. This category will also not reach the ceiling.
   
• Special Eligibility

This is a stream for the visas that cover special circumstances. This can include permanent residents who are returning to Australia after a long period. The number of these visas is 100. Migration program planning levels for 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 The table below reveals the planning levels:

Visa Stream	Visa Category	2021-22	2022-23
Skill	Employer Sponsored	22,000​	30,000
	Skilled Independent	6,500	16,652
	Regional	11,200	25,000
	State/Territory Nominated	11,200	20,000
	Business Innovation & Investment	13,500	9,500
	Global Talent (Independent)	15,000	8,448
	Distinguished Talent	200	300
Skill Total		79,600	1,09,900
Family	Partner*	72,300	40,500
	(Demand driven: estimate, not subject to a ceiling)
	Parent	4,500	6,000
	Child*	3,000	3,000
	(Demand driven: estimate, not subject to a ceiling)
	Other Family	500	500
Family Total		77,300**	50,000
Special Eligibility		100	100
Total Migration Program		160,00​0	1,60,000

State and territory nominated visa allocations The table below will reveal the allocations for state and territory nominated visa

State	Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) Visa	Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visa	Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)
ACT	600	1,400	30
NSW	4,000	3,640	2,200
VIC	3,500	750	1,750
QLD	1,180	950	1,400
NT	500	700	75
WA	2,100	1,090	360
SA	2,600	3,330	1,000
TAS	1,100	2,200	45
Total	15,580	14,060	6,860

July 13, 2022 

Canberra Matrix draw invites 231 candidates to apply for ACT nominations Australia Canberra Matrix draw has invited 231 candidates to apply for ACT nominations. The invitations were sent to Overseas applicants and Canberra residents. The candidates who got a high matrix score received the invitations. The data in the table below will reveal the details of the draw:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	4	90
		491 nominations	3	75
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	46	NA
				NA
		491 nominations	65	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	6	NA
		491 nominations	106	NA

 Click the link below to know more details about the draw: Canberra Matrix draw invites 231 candidates to apply for ACT nominations 

July 08, 2022 

Australia visa changes for 2022-23, opening up new opportunities for overseas immigrants Australian government announced the changes in visa rules on July 1, 2022. These changes will open new ways to permanent residency in Australia. Major changes can be observed in Temporary skill shortage visas, Temporary graduate visas, and Working holiday maker visas. The temporary graduate visa holders will be able to apply for a replacement visa for one year and later can convert it to Australian PR. 

For more information, visit the link below… Australia visa changes for 2022-23, opening up new opportunities for overseas immigrants 

June 24, 2022 

Canberra Matrix draw invites 159 individuals Invitations were issued to 159 candidates in the recent Canberra Matrix draw. The candidates who are invited can apply for ACT nominations. The invitations have been issued to the candidates under Critical Skill Occupations and Small Business Owners. The information about this draw is available in the following table:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	5	90
		491 nominations	3	75
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	2	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	51	NA
				NA
		491 nominations	39	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	7	NA
		491 nominations	52	NA

For more information, check the link below… Canberra Matrix draw invites 159 individuals 

June 16, 2022 

Canberra Matrix draw invites 44 candidates On June 16, 2022, Canberra Matrix draw invited 44 candidates to apply for ACT nomination. These candidates include both Overseas applicants and Canberra residents. Canberra residents have received 29 invitations while overseas applicants have received 15 invitations. 

To know more details, also read… Canberra Matrix draw invites 44 candidates 

June 16, 2022 

Australia Fair Work Commission announces the highest rise in the minimum wage since 2006 The Fair Work Commission in Australia has announced an increase in minimum wage up to 5.2 percent. This will increase the wage up2 $812.60 per week. The increase in salary will come into effect from July 1. The government has raised the wages up to 5.1 percent. The award minimum wages will be increased by 4.6 percent and the increase will be $40 per week.

For more details… Australia Fair Work Commission announces the highest rise in the minimum wage since 2006 

June 10, 2022 

Canberra Matrix draw invites 33 candidates Canberra Matrix draw has invited 33 candidates for ACT nomination. The candidates whose Matrix score is the highest get the invitation. The invitations are not sent to those candidates whose application is already active or who have already received the ACT nomination. The invitations have been sent under different categories. 

For more information about the draw, visit the link below: Canberra Matrix draw invites 33 candidates 

June 9, 2022 

Public sector staff pay rise in NSW, Australia The state government of New South Wales, Australia has announced that it will raise the wages of the workers by 3 percent. The workers will start their increased pay from July 1. The wages have been increased due to the pressure from the unions. They made the pressure to keep up the wages with the inflation. The unions are not happy with the increase as they told that the increase will be much below the inflation ad it will not provide any benefit to the workers. The government has also announced the recruitment of 10,150 staff in the coming four years. 

For more information, click on… Public sector staff pay rise in NSW, Australia 

June 1, 2022 

Invitations sent to 86 candidates through Canberra Matrix draw Australia Canberra Matrix draw has invited 86 candidates under different categories. There is a cut-off score that depends on different factors. There is no guarantee that candidates will receive the invitation if they have achieved the minimum score. 

For more information visit… Canberra Matrix draw invites 86 candidates 

27th May 2022

 Western Australia opens permanent residency doors for skilled workers in over 330 occupations Western Australia has announced that invitations will be sent to the overseas skilled workers to apply for the jobs available in the Graduate stream. The candidates living in Western Australia will be given preference. After that, preference will be given to people residing in Australia and overseas. Some of the jobs for which candidates can apply are:

• Accountant (General)
• Acupuncturist
• Aeronautical Engineer
• Anaesthetist
• Barrister
• Biochemist
• Cafe or Restaurant Manager

25th May 2022

Canberra Matrix draw invites 78 candidates

Canberra matrix draw has invited 78 candidates. For Matrix nominating Small Business Owners 3 candidates have been invited. For 190 nominations, 1 invitation is sent and the minimum score should be 100. For 491 nominations, 2 invitations have been sent and the minimum score is 85.

For Matrix nominating 457/482 visa holders, 1 invitation has been sent for 491 nomination.

For Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations, 47 invitations have been sent. For 190 nominations, 15 invitations have been sent and the minimum score is 85. For 491 nomination, 32 invitations has been sent.

For Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations, 27 invitations have been sent for 491 nomination.

Details of the draw

The details of the draw will be shown in the table below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	1	100
		491 nominations	2	85
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	0	NA
		491 nominations	1	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	15	85
		491 nominations	32	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	0	90
		491 nominations	27	NA

11th May 2022: 

Australia Canberra draw invited 187 candidates Australia Canberra draw has invited 187 candidates under different streams. The candidates who have got the highest score have received the invitation. The invitations have been sent under the following categories as given in the table:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Points
Canberra Residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	61	NA
				NA
		491 nominations	48	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	4	90
		491 nominations	72	NA

28th March 2022: 

Australia Canberra draw invited 169 candidates to apply for ACT nomination

Australia has invited 169 candidates through Canberra matrix. These nominations are fixed in number and are sent by ACT. The candidates who achieve the highest matrix are invited to migrate to Australia.

17th March 2022: 

Australia’s Canberra Matrix Invitation Round invited 129 candidates Candidates were invited to apply for the nomination in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). On March 17, 2022, the nominations were announced. The nominations are open to both immigrants and citizens, according to the ACT. The cut-off scores change depending on the occupation cap and demand. It invited applicants from a variety of occupations. The highest-ranking candidates are invited. Details of the draw The details of the draw are below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited
Canberra residents	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	3
		491 nominations	44
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	5
		491 nominations	77

8th March 2022: 

Australia Canberra draw invites 79 candidates to apply for ACT nomination A Canberra Matrix draw was held on March 8, 2022, where 79 immigration candidates were invited. Here are more details of the draw: Canberra residents Matrix nominations for Small Business Owners

• 491 nominations: 1 invitation (70 points)
• 190 nominations: 1 invitation (100 points)

Matrix nominations for Critical Skill Occupations

• 491 nominations: 26 invitations
• 190 nominations: 11 invitations

Matrix nominations for Subclass 457 / Subclass 482 visa holders

• 491 nominations: 0 invitation
• 190 nominations: 1 invitation 

3rd March 2022: 

South Australia invites offshore applicants from over 250 occupations for migration The South Australian state government announced on March 3, 2022 that 259 new vocations would be added to the list of occupations. Immigrant workers in the required occupational list are entitled to apply for a ROI, or Registration of Interest, in order to be considered for a state nomination. Foreign nationals who are eligible for the ROI program can apply for temporary and permanent residency in Australia. The spokesman notes that, while it is available to companies throughout South Australia, it is only available to sites with specific postcodes. The DAMA in Adelaide City Technology and Innovation Advancement lists 60 vocations available in metropolitan Adelaide. Employers in South Australia will be able to use the DAMA to fund skilled foreign workers in occupations where they are unable to hire Australian workers. The qualifications for state nomination will differ depending on the occupation. The occupation’s subclasses would follow the exact conditions. 

18th February 2022: 

Canberra Matrix Invitation Round: 18 February 2022 The Canberra Matrix  held draw on February 18, 2022, and invited 116 candidates to apply for ACT nomination in each occupation group. Details of the draw are given below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Minimum score
Canberra residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	2	85
		491 nominations	1	75
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	3	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	4	NA
		491 nominations	48	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	5	NA
		491 nominations	53	NA

10th February 2022: 

Canberra Matrix Invitation Round: 10 February 2022 The Canberra Matrix  held draw on February 10, 2022, and invited candidates to apply for ACT nomination in each occupation group. The cut-off score is based on the occupation cap and demand. It invited both the Canberra residents and overseas applicants under different occupation groups. Details of the draw are given below:

Type of residents	Occupation group	Under nomination	Number of candidates invited	Minimum score
Canberra residents	Matrix nominating Small Business Owners	190 nominations	2	85
		491 nominations	1	75
	Matrix nominating 457 / 482 visa holders	190 nominations	1	NA
		491 nominations	0	NA
	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	42	NA
		491 nominations	58	NA
Overseas applicants	Matrix nominating Critical Skill Occupations	190 nominations	4	NA
		491 nominations	52	NA

8th February 2022: 

Australia has expedited the processing of pending visa applications The processing of pending visa applications has commenced in Australia. Visas for persons with an urgent need to travel, non-citizens with compelling and compassionate circumstances, and those with crucial talents required to maintain the supply of essential goods and services are currently given priority. Australia’s immigration minister Alex Hawke said, “We are building back healthy pipelines of working holiday makers, and we are processing these visas very quickly.” Many applications are currently being reviewed by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), which has cautioned that processing times may lengthen further. The DHA is now prioritizing travelers who are not subject to any travel restrictions. 

8th February 2022: 

Australia issues 400 invitations in latest immigration draw Australia has decided to reopen its international borders to fully vaccinated travelers from February 21. This will include visitors and tourists. The country has already eased its restrictions for skilled migrants, international students and those coming on a working holiday visa from December 2021. International travelers must have proof of their two vaccine doses or have a valid medical reason for not getting vaccinated. Meanwhile the DHA held a third invitation round on January 21, 2022 where it invited candidates under Subclass 189 and Subclass 491 visa. Here are the details:

Visa Subclass	No. of invitations
Subclass 189	200
Subclass 491 (Family Sponsored)	200

18th December 2021: 

Australia allows international students and skilled workers to re-enter Australia with re-opening of borders International students and skilled professionals have just been allowed to re-enter Australia. However, the demand for workers to fill employment in Australia is at an all-time high! Despite firms giving wage raises never seen before, there is a tremendous demand for competent workers that can only be met through migration. It’s heartening to note that Australia’s jobless rate has dropped to 4.6 percent in November 2021, according to official figures. This came after lockdowns in Victoria, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory were lifted. The easing of lockdowns and the gradual relaxation of restrictions at Australia’s international borders can be credited with any improvement in the country’s economic and employment situation. 

10th December 2021: 

Australia to reopen its borders from December 15, 2021 On December 15, 2021, Australia will open its international borders to skilled migrants, international students, and other visa holders who meet the requirements. The plan to reopen the Australian border to migrants is proceeding according to schedule. Borders are reopened after consultation with Australia’s Prime Minister and the National Cabinet. The Chief Medical Officer’s advice is also taken into account. The decision to reopen borders was made in the wake of the current COVID-19 Omicron variant fear. The reopening was originally scheduled for September 29, 2021, but was pushed back to December 15 due to the Omicron issue. Those who have been locked out of Australia for nearly two years owing to preventive restrictions against the COVID-19 will be entitled to re-enter as a result of this ruling. From December 15, 2021, migrants on humanitarian grounds, provincial family visa holders, and working holiday visa holders will be eligible to re-enter Australia. Fully vaccinated visa holders will not need to get an exemption to travel to Australia now that the gates are open. From December 15, 2021, visitors from South Korea and Japan will be able to enter Australia. The current decision builds on the November decision to reopen Australian borders to fully vaccinated residents, Australia PR visa holders, and their families without the need to enter quarantine. 

30th November 2021: 

Temporary graduate visa holders can now apply for replacement visas Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders who have been unable to come to Australia owing to COVID-19 international border limitations will be allowed to apply for a replacement visa, according to the Australian government. Replacement visas will be charged, according to the Department of Home Affairs, and applicants will be eligible to apply beginning July 1, 2022. Current and previous temporary graduate (subclass 485) visa holders who have visas that expire on or after February 1, 2020 will be able to apply for a new replacement visa under the new regulations. The 485 visas are available to international students who have just graduated and wish to continue working in Australia. The government has also enhanced the length of stay on 485 visas for Masters graduates from two to three years. Mr Tudge, the minister of education pointed out that the extension of three years would attract many to come to Australia for study purposes. “The new changes will make sure that no one was disadvantaged by not coming to Australia.” he said. He further highlighted Australia’s eagerness for the return of international students. 

Know More:  

July 23rd, 2021: 

South Australia opens its Skilled Migration program for both onshore and offshore applicants South Australia has announced that skilled migrants who are currently living in the region and meet state and federal requirements, can apply for a state nomination. Occupations such as physiotherapist, audiologist, occupational therapist and speech pathologist were opened by the state in its 2020-21 migration program. From July 20, offshore applicants can submit their Registration of Interest (RoI) for state nominations for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa Subclass 491, and onshore applicants can apply for the visa Subclass 491 and the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass190. Skilled migrants who are currently living in South Australia (including long term residents), and those who meet the eligibility conditions decided by the state government and the Department of Home Affairs, can apply for state nominations under three categories: International Graduate of South Australia Talent and Innovators Program Currently working in South Australia (including long-term residents in SA) The government offers exemptions Exemptions offered to applicants living and working in outer and regional South Australia. Once the applicants receive a state nomination, they can apply for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa Subclass 491 (five-year visa) and the Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190 (permanent visa). However, offshore applicants will have to submit an ROI which demonstrates their skills in specific trades and health-related occupations and their proficiency in English language. An RoI is required for onshore applicants who wish to apply under the Talent and Innovators program.

Know More: 

July 20th, 2021: 

South Australia relaxes two requirements for the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa South Australia has announced the opening up of its nominations for the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa or BIIP Subclass 188 from 20 July for the current program year. South Australia is allowed to nominate 1000 places under this visa category. A new development in the announcement has been the removal of two eligibility requirements which were essential earlier. The first eligibility requirement to be removed is the necessity for applicants to submit their ‘Intent to apply’ (ITA) form. Under the current program year-2021-22, applicants are not required to submit their ITA form. The second eligibility requirement is the necessity to make an exploratory visit to the region by the applicants. This requirement has also been dropped due to the current COVID-19 situation. The relaxation of these requirements is a bid to attract more investors according to immigration experts. 

Know More: South Australia to open subclass 190, 491 and BIIP nominations from July 20, 2021 

June 22nd, 2021: Australia announces migration program for 2021-22 Australia announced its migration targets for the next financial year. The Migration Program announced the overall planning level of 160,000 places of which 79,600 places were given for the Skill stream while 77,300 places were given to the family stream.13,500 places are reserved for the Business Innovation and Investment Program while 15,000 places are reserved for the Global Talent Visa Program while it is 22,000 for the Employer Sponsored visa program. The government wants to focus on visa programs which will help the economy to recover after the Covid-19 crisis. 

Know More: Australia to continue with 2020-2021 Migration Program planning levels for 2021-2022

June 12th, 2021: 

Australia records the highest number of bridging visa holders The Australian government while releasing data on bridging visa holders revealed that the number of bridging visa holder in March 2020 was 256,529. However, this year the number has risen to 359,981 which is the highest for Australia so far. Bridging visas are temporary visas provided to migrants when their current visa expires while they await the outcome of their substantive applications. These visas allow a migrant to remain legally in Australia while his or her immigration status is settled. The sort of bridging visa granted is determined by the circumstances of the applicant. According to data from the Department of Home Affairs, 7,315 former Bridging Visa B (BVB) holders (whose visas expired between 1 Feb 2020 and 30 April 2021) are currently staying offshore. Many of these visa holders are anxious to return back to Australia.They are worried because these visas cannot be renewed or extended when they are staying offshore. Travel restrictions are preventing them to return to Australia.

Know More: What to do if your Australian visa is expiring? 

May 7th, 2021: 

Australia wants to repatriate its citizens stranded in India at the earliest according to immigration minister Alex Hawke The immigration minister of Australia, Alex Hawke, said that his government intends to bring back more than 8,000 Australians stranded in coronavirus-ravaged India in a phased manner, despite Australia’s decision to penalize those returning from India. The minister indicated that the Australian government could resume flights to India from May 15 to repatriate the Australian citizens stranded in Australia. He said that the government is working on the logistics to bring back its citizens. The Australian government had announced a temporary flight ban on April 27 amidst the rising Coronavirus cases in India. Making the announcement Mr. Hawke said, “We want to make sure we can safely repatriate them here as soon as we possibly can. Everybody here is working on that. We want people to stay safe and listen to the government’s advice.” 

Mar 27th, 2021: 

Australia planning to reopen its international borders to welcome temporary visa holders: Immigration Minister Alex Hawke Australia which had imposed border restrictions for almost the whole of last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic is now ready to welcome temporary migrants such as international students and visitors according to the newly appointed Immigration Minister Alex Hawke. In a recent interview to SBS Australia, he said that the government is ready to open its international borders According to Hawke, ‘’… the government is rolling out our vaccination program and preparing for the opening of our international borders, so we can have those important visits from tourists that spend so much money in our country – but also the international student sector, one of our largest export sectors, they value-add so inherently to the Australian economy – we want to get them back.” This announcement comes in the wake of the latest data from the Department of Home Affairs which revealed that the offshore international student visa applications have gone down registering a decline by 65% in the second half of 2020 when compared to 2019. According to the minister, migration will play a key role in the economic recovery of Australia from the pandemic. He said, “I’m convinced that the migration program will be a huge part of how we recover from COVID and whether we will be as successful as we can be on that journey.” Australia is looking at its migration program to play a key role in the country’s economic recovery post the pandemic. 

Mar 4th, 2021: 

Australia makes changes to Subclass 485 visa to favor international students Australia has introduced changes in the Subclass 485 visa by introducing changes in the  application requirements and visa criteria for international students. After these changes international students on a Temporary Graduate visa, will have the opportunity to stay longer in Australiain order to gain valuable work experience and look for a pathway to permanent residency. After their studies, they can stay on and work in regional Australia. Students belonging to the Post-Study Work stream can apply for their second 485 visa in the same stream provided they have lived in regional Australia for at least two years prior to making their second visa application. The government has made relaxations in the application and grant criteria for international students who cannot travel to Australia due to travel restrictions. These students can now apply for their485 visa, from offshore regardless of the stream they belong to. 

Feb 18th, 2021: 

600,000 temporary visa holders have left Australia In the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic nearly 600,000 temporary visa holders left Australia last year. These included tourists, holidaymakers, international students, and work visa holders. Out of the 600,000 temporary visa holders, 41,000 were from India. The main category of people who left Australia were visitors and working holidaymakers, and bridging visa holders. According to figures, the highest number of exits were in the three months after the pandemic started in March 2020. The exit will have an impact on the economy because not many temporary visa holders are returning back to Australia because of the travel ban under which only citizens and permanent residents can come back to the country. The mass exit is expected to have an impact on the tourism and education industries in Australia. 

Jan 29th, 2021:

Tasmania announced it’s skilled occupation list for the program year 2020-21 for subclass 190 and 491.

For subclass 190, applicants must have been working in Tasmania for 6 months immediately prior to the application for state nomination.

Overseas applicants are eligible for subclass 491 under a category 3A.

The applicant has to file an EOI first and upon invitation to apply for the nomination the applicant must meet the additional English language, experience, and employability requirement specified for the occupation.

We have occupations of Vetassess, TRA, ANMAC, Engineers Australia, and others in the TSOL list.

Jan 28th, 2021:

Vetassess has updated that the pricing/fee for the skill assessment services will increase from 1st Feb 2021.

Below are the details of the fee applicable from 1st Feb.

Professional Occupation Skills Assessment Pricing Table
Service	Price from 1st February 2021	Current Price
Full Skills Assessment	$927	$880
Points Test Advice
Points Test Advice (returning applicants)	$400	$380
Points Test Advice (non-VETASSESS) – PhD	$378	$359
Points Test Advice (non-VETASSESS) – other overseas qualifcations	$263	$250
Points Test Advice (non-VETASSESS) – Australian qualifcation	$150	$142
485 Graduate Visa Qualifications only assessment	$378	$359
Post-485 assessment	$721	$684
Reassessment
Reassessment (review) – qualifications	$287	$272
Reassessment (review) – employment	$515	$489
Reassessment (change of occupation) – 485 visa	$344	$326
Reassessment (change of occupation) – full skills	$630	$598
Appeal	$779	$739
Renewal of skills assessment	$400	$380

Dec 18th, 2020:

Australia announces changes to business visa program The Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) provides three visas and nine visa categories for applicants with an established track record of innovation, investment and business success or talent. The business visa streams have now been reduced to four categories. The changes will come into effect from 1 July 2021 Changes to visa eligibility requirements: Holders of Business Innovation visas will now be expected to maintain $1.25 million in business assets, up from $800,000 and need to have an annual turnover of $750,000 from $500,000. At the same time, certain visas would have lower requirements, such as the $200,000 funding requirement currently needed for applicants for entrepreneurial visas will be scrapped from July next year. From July 2021, the Premium Investor, Significant Company History and Venture Capital Entrepreneur visas will be closed for new applications. The already lodged applications for these visas will continue to be processed. Under the current scheme, the bulk of BIIP migrants reach Australia on a provisional visa for a period of four years After this time, if they fulfil the stipulated visa requirements, they can apply for a permanent visa. After the changes provisional visas will be valid for five years. The changes will now allow provisional visas to be valid for five years giving applicants extra time to meet the residency requirements. 

Dec 15th, 2020:

NSW updates occupation list for Subclass 190 and 491

New South Wales region of Australia or NSW has updated its occupation list for Subclass 190 and 491. For the Subclass 190 visa, the region is requesting immigrants with an EOI to apply for a nomination only form people currently residing in the region. As for Subclass 491, the number of regions has gone up from 8 to 13 which improves the chances of applicants to get a visa.

For Subclass 491 visa applicants have a choice to apply under three streams to become eligible for nomination from this region.

1.Living and working in regional NSW 

2.Recently completed studies in regional NSW

3.Living and working outside of regional NSW

Most overseas applicants will be eligible under the 3rd category and should have at least five years of skilled employment experience in order to apply.

For further details, Talk to Y-Axis Consultants or you can e-mail us on info@.y-axis.com. One of our representatives will get back to you at the earliest.

*Under Job Search Service, we offer Resume Writing, LinkedIn Optimization and Resume Marketing. We do not advertise jobs on behalf of overseas employers or represent any overseas employer. This service is not a placement/recruitment service and does not guarantee jobs. #Our Registration number is B-0553/AP/300/5/8968/2013 and Placement services are provided at our Registered Center only.