Starting from July 1, 2024, the Australian Government is set to introduce significant changes to visa conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608 as part of the New Migration Strategy. These changes aim to enhance labor productivity, prevent worker exploitation, and support the labor market mobility of temporary migrants. The adjustments will affect holders of Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457), Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482), and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494).
Key Changes to Visa Conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608
Extended Time Periods for Visa Holders
If visa holders of subclasses 457, 482, and 494 cease working with their sponsoring employer, they will now have more time to:
- Find a new sponsor
- Apply for a different visa
- Arrange to depart Australia
New Time Limits
Visa holders will be allowed up to:
- 180 days at a time, OR
- A maximum of 365 days in total during the visa grant period.
What Visa Holders Can Do During This Time
During the extended time periods, visa holders are permitted to work for other employers, including those in occupations not listed in their most recent approved nomination for sponsorship. This change aims to help workers maintain their standard of living while they search for new sponsors.
Important Restrictions
- Visa holders cannot work for another employer until they have finished working for their sponsoring employer unless they are exempt.
- Visa holders must continue working in their nominated profession while employed by their sponsoring employer.
- Visa holders are prohibited from engaging in any employment that conflicts with any licenses or registrations required for their chosen occupation, as well as any terms and conditions that apply to their visas.
Obligations for Sponsors
Sponsors must notify the Department of Home Affairs within 28 days of any changes, such as when a visa holder resigns or when sponsorship ends. For more detailed information, sponsors can visit the official website: Sponsorship Obligations for Standard Business Sponsors.
Implementation of the Changes
The changes in visa conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608 will apply to both existing 457, 482, and 494 visas and those issued on or after July 1, 2024. Any periods during which a visa holder stopped working with their sponsor before July 1, 2024, will not count towards the new time limits.
Are You a 457, 482, or 494 Visa Holder?
If you are a visa holder worried about these new changes, it is crucial to seek authentic and updated information regarding your visa conditions and obligations. Contact our team of experts and immigration lawyers at The Migration for customized solutions to your specific concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Visas are Affected by Changes in Visa Conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608?
The affected visas include:
- Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457)
- Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
- Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494)
How Much Time Will Visa Holders Have to Find a New Sponsor?
Visa holders of subclasses 457, 482, and 494 will be provided with:
- 180 days at a time, OR
- A maximum of 365 days in total during the visa grant period.
During this time, visa holders can work for other employers.