COVID-19: Onshore grants for offshore family visas; Nil VAC for former 457/482 visa holders; Global Talent visa add special envoy endorsement

COVID-19: Onshore grants for offshore family visas; Nil VAC for former 457/482 visa holders; Global Talent visa add special envoy endorsement

New regulations that take into effect on 27 February 2021 will see various offshore family visas able to be granted in Australia, nil visa application charges for former 457 and 482 visa holders stuck overseas during the pandemic, and a new pathway for the renamed Subclass 858 – Global Talent visa.

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COVID-19: Family visas to receive concessions for visa grants in Australia from early 2021

COVID-19: Family visas to receive concessions for visa grants in Australia from early 2021

COVID-19 concessions will apply to several family visas from early 2021, many of which are likely to be Subclass 309 – Partner visa applicants, to allow visas to be granted to applicants without the need for them to leave Australia.

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2020-21 Planning levels: GSM visas down more than 55 per cent, “Bespoke” occupation list uncovered

2020-21 Planning levels: GSM visas down more than 55 per cent, “Bespoke” occupation list uncovered

The 2020-21 planning levels have been released. The full allocation and their differences compared to last year are assessed. GSM visas take a nosedive with 189 visa places down more than 60 per cent. The “bespoke” occupation list for the targeted invitation rounds of May and June 2020 has been uncovered. The acting Minister has also clarified partner visa English requirements.

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2020-21 Budget: Planning levels remain at 160,000; Partner visa places up 82 per cent, sponsor framework and English language tests soon

2020-21 Budget: Planning levels remain at 160,000; Partner visa places up 82 per cent, sponsor framework and English language tests soon

The Federal Budget handed down last night came with a number of surprises to Australia’s permanent migration programs. Of note is the prioritisation of certain skilled visas and onshore applicants and a one-off boost to partner visa processing numbers. Partner visa applicants and some sponsors will need to meet English language requirements along with an increase in requirements to be a sponsor.

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