Australia visa news

Here are some recent updates on Australia visa news:

Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa Changes

• From November 16, 2021, the TSS visa program has been rebranded as the "Temporary Skilled Migration Initiative" (TSMI).
• The changes aim to improve the program's flexibility and responsiveness to labor market needs.
• The new program will have a more streamlined application process and a greater emphasis on employer sponsorship.

Skilled Independent (subclass 189) Visa Changes

• From November 16, 2021, the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) will be replaced by the "Skilled Independent visa (subclass 191)".
• The new visa will have a more streamlined application process and a greater emphasis on employer sponsorship.
• The changes aim to improve the program's flexibility and responsiveness to labor market needs.

Priority Migration Skilled (subclass 188) Visa Changes

• From November 16, 2021, the Priority Migration Skilled visa (subclass 188) will be replaced by the "Priority Migration Skilled visa (subclass 191)".
• The new visa will have a more streamlined application process and a greater emphasis on employer sponsorship.
• The changes aim to improve the program's flexibility and responsiveness to labor market needs.

Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (RSMS) Visa Changes

• From November 16, 2021, the RSMS visa program will be replaced by the "Regional Skilled Migration Scheme (subclass 191)".
• The new visa will have a more streamlined application process and a greater emphasis on employer sponsorship.
• The changes aim to improve the program's flexibility and responsiveness to labor market needs.

New Visa Application Charge (VAC) Rates

• From November 16, 2021, the VAC rates for most visa applications will increase.
• The new rates are as follows:
  • Primary applicant: AU$1,060
  • Secondary applicant: AU$540
  • Child applicant: AU$270

Changes to the Australian Citizenship Test

• From November 16, 2021, the Australian citizenship test will be updated to include new questions and a more interactive format.
• The changes aim to improve the test's ability to assess applicants' knowledge and understanding of Australian values and history.

New Online Portal for Visa Applications

• From November 16, 2021, the Australian Government will launch a new online portal for visa applications.
• The portal will allow applicants to submit and track their visa applications online, and will provide a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.

Changes to the Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457)

• From March 18, 2018, the Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457) was replaced by the Temporary Skilled Migration Initiative (TSMI).
• The changes aim to improve the program's flexibility and responsiveness to labor market needs.

Changes to the Australian Government's Skilled Migration Program

• From July 1, 2017, the Australian Government introduced changes to the Skilled Migration Program, including:
  • A new points-based system for skilled migration
  • A greater emphasis on employer sponsorship
  • A more streamlined application process

Please note that these are just some of the recent updates on Australia visa news, and it's always best to check with the Australian Government's official website or consult with a registered migration agent for the most up-to-date and accurate information.