The latest news on Australian immigration, including changes to regulations, government policy announcements, and analysis of media releases affecting current and future applications.
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The much-anticipated May 2020 and June 2020 invitation rounds have finally been published by the Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs). While there has been an increase in invitations issued from the dismal April 2020 round, the goalposts have been moved from highest points first to a “targeted” invitation system due to COVID-19.
Read MoreTo shore up the education sector and to reassure existing and prospective international students, offshore student visa processing will re-commence despite Australia’s borders still closed to most if not all international students. Furthermore, current and future student visa holders who require a further student visa because of COVID-19 will not be required to pay an application fee. Other benefits for COVID-19-affected 485 visa applicants including counting online study, the ability to lodge their application while offshore and additional time to provide evidence of English language ability.
Read MoreThe Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs) has released an FAQ to confirm among other things that the number of permanent migration places allocated for this program year (2020-21) is the same as for the last program year. This is not set in stone and is likely to change when the Federal Budget is handed down in October.
Read MoreThe prime minister has set out a plan for certain Hong Kong passport holders who hold Australian visas to extend their stay in Australia for up to 5 years. Additionally, new student graduates and temporary work visa applicants will also have access to a 5-year visa, with a pathway to a permanent visa available. The government has also set its sights on attracting Hong Kong’s best a brightest workers and businesses.
But perhaps the biggest announcement may be that revisions to the skilled occupation lists are coming sooner rather than later.
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