On 27 April 2023 the Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon O’Neil MP recently announced significant changes to the Australian migration laws for skilled visa holders.
The changes include an increase in the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT). as well as expanded pathways to permanent residence for employer sponsored temporary skilled visa holders.
Increasing the TSMIT – Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold
- Starting from 1 July 2023, the TSMIT will increase from $53,900 to $70,000
- Any new nomination applications after this date will need to meet the new TSMIT of $70,000 or the annual market salary, whichever is higher.
- This change will not affect existing visa holders and nominations lodged before 1 July 2023.
Expanded Pathways to permanent residence
By the end of 2023:
- The Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa will be available for all Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders whose employers wish to sponsor them.
- Applicants are required to continue to work in the occupation nominated for their TSS visa(s).
- Sponsored visa holders will be eligible for TRT after two years (previously three years) of sponsorship on a TSS by their employer.
- Applicants will need to meet all other nomination and visa requirements for the TRT stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme visa.
- The Department will temporarily remove limits on in-country TSS visa applications to help onshore individuals who would usually need to go offshore to reapply.
These changes are a result of the Government’s commitment at the Jobs and Skills Summit in September 2022 to expand pathways to permanent residence for temporary skilled sponsored workers. These changes are significant for temporary skilled sponsored workers as they provide a positive outlook. This is a beneficial step towards creating a more sustainable and diverse workforce in Australia as the new pathways will help alleviate skill shortages in various industries.
We understand that navigating the Australian migration system is complex, therefore having the assistance of Aussie Immigration Services can help you achieve what you want in the most efficient and professional way. From questions to advice, Aussie Immigration Services’ team of experienced agents are always prepared to provide assistance.
