Congratulations, Mr. D. M., on your visa grant through Engineering Australia! 🎉 EMK Global celebrates your achievement and wishes you a prosperous future in your Mechanical Engineering career. 🌟🔧
Muhammad B., congratulations on securing your visa grant through the TRA Job Ready Program! 🎉 EMK Global is proud of your accomplishment and we wish you great success in your career as a Motor Mechanic. 🚗🔧
Congratulations, Ms. N. S., on your successful visa grant through the CPA pathway! 🎉 The entire EMK Global team is thrilled for you and wishes you the best of luck in your new journey as an Accountant. 🌟
Migration Program planning levels
On 14 May 2024, the Australian Government announced that the planning levels for the 2024–25 permanent Migration Program will be set at 185,000 places.
This Migration Program aims to address skills shortages in priority sectors and prioritize visa processing for regional Australia, while also building a domestic pipeline of highly skilled workers.
Recognizing the significant contributions of all migrants to social cohesion, the 2024–25 Migration Program focuses on strengthening family and community bonds in Australia.
A well-targeted, skills-focused Migration Program supplements the working-age population, boosting participation rates and expanding the labour force.
The 2024–25 permanent Migration Program consists of the following components:
- Skill stream (132,200 places, approximately 71% of the program) – Designed to enhance the productive capacity of the economy and address skill shortages in the labour market, particularly in regional Australia.
- Family stream (52,500 places, approximately 28% of the program) – Predominantly comprising Partner visas, this stream allows Australians to reunite with family members from overseas and provides pathways to citizenship. Within this stream:
- An estimated 40,500 Partner visas are planned for 2024–25, noting that this category is demand-driven.
- An estimated 3,000 Child visas are planned for 2024–25, also noting that this category is demand-driven.
- Special Eligibility stream (300 places) – This stream includes visas for individuals in special circumstances, such as permanent residents returning to Australia after a period overseas.
| Visa Stream​ | Visa Category | 2023–24 Planning levels | 2024–25 Planning levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skill | Employer Sponsored | 36,825 | 44,000 |
| Skilled Independent | 30,375 | 16,900 | |
| Regional | 32,300 | 33,000 | |
| State/Territory Nominated | 30,400 | 33,000 | |
| Business Innovation & Investment | 1,900 | 1,000 | |
| Global Talent (Independent) | 5,000 | 4,000 | |
| Distinguished Talent | 300 | 300 | |
| Skill Total | 137,100 | 132,200 | |
| Family | Partner1​ | 40,500 | 40,500 |
| Parent | 8,500 | 8,500 | |
| Child1​ | 3,000 | 3,000 | |
| Other Family | 500 | 500 | |
| Family Total | 52,500 | 52,500 | |
| Special ​​Eligibility | 400 | 300 | |
| Total Migration Program | 190,000 | 185,000 |
2024–25 permanent Migration Program planning levels
The 2024–25 permanent Migration Program has been set at a planning level of 185,000 with an approximate 70:30 split between the Skill and Family streams.
Employer Sponsored visa category
The Government has increased the planning level for Employer Sponsored from 36,825 visas in 2023–24 to 44,000 visas for the 2024–25 permanent Migration Program.
This planning level builds on the expanded pathway to permanent residence introduced by the Government from November 2023. It will allow a greater proportion of temporary migrants to secure permanent residence in a timely manner through the Temporary Residence Transition Stream.
State/Territory Nominated visa category
The Government has increased the planning level for the State/Territory Nominated category to 33,000 visas, and the planning level for the Regional category to 33,000 visas for the 2024–25 Migration Program.
Together these categories, which both contain visas nominated by state and territory governments, account for 36 per cent of the overall planning level and 50 per cent of the Skill stream.
Increasing the planning levels for the State and Territory Nominated and Regional categories will allow jurisdictions to attract skilled migrants to meet their specific economic and labour force challenges. Increases to the Regional category planning level will also support key commitments in the Migration Strategy to support regional Australia, in addition to priority visa processing.
Skilled Independent visa category
In the 2024–25 Migration Program, the Government has allocated 16,900 places for Skilled Independent visas. This is a decrease compared to the 2023–24 program allocation of 30,375 places, but still well above the COVID-era planning levels of 7,500 and 6,500 places in 2020–21 and 2021–22 respectively.
Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) visa category
The Government has reduced the planning level for the BIIP from 1,900 visas in 2023–24 to 1,000 visas for the 2024–25 permanent Migration Program.
As part of the Migration Strategy, the Government announced that it would not provide any new allocations for the BIIP while a new talent and innovation visa was considered. This new visa – to be called the National Innovation visa – will be available at the end of 2024.
The BIIP will be closed permanently from July 2024 and new applications for the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) visa will no longer be able to be lodged. The Migration Review concluded that the BIIP is delivering poor economic outcomes for Australia. This has been supported by other studies, including work undertaken by the Treasury, Productivity Commission and the Grattan Institute.
Subclass 188 BIIP visa applications that have been lodged will continue to be processed in line with Government priorities and the Migration Program planning levels. BIIP policy guidance will be tightened to ensure that all business migrants coming to Australia through this program have overall had a successful business career and will bring an economic benefit to Australia.
Those who hold a subclass 188 visa and meet the relevant criteria for the grant of the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) (subclass 888) visa will still be able to continue on this pathway after July 2024.
Reducing the planning level for BIIP will ensure the 2024–25 permanent Migration Program is focussed on highly-skilled individuals who will help to support a stronger, more robust, economy.
Global Talent visa category
The Government has slightly reduced the planning level for the Global Talent Visa Program to 4,000 visas for the 2024–25 Migration Program.
This planning level aligns with the Government’s broader reforms around talent and innovation, and accounts for the last year of the Global Talent visa program as it transitions to new arrangements using the forthcoming National Innovation visa. Through the new visa, the Government will provide a permanent visa pathway for the most exceptional talented migrants – such as high performing entrepreneurs, major investors and global researchers. National Innovation visas granted in 2024-25 will be counted within the Global Talent visa Program.
Home Affairs will manage the transition to the new National Innovation visa to ensure applicants, including existing applicants of the Global Talent visa, are supported in the application process. Existing Global Talent visa applicants will not be adversely affected by the transition. Visa applicants will be assessed against the eligibility criteria at the time of their application.
Family stream
The Government has maintained the size of the family stream. Family migration is an important element of Australia’s migration system. It allows Australian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their family members and contribute to stronger social cohesion outcomes. The Australian Government recognises that immigrant parents can make valuable social contributions to their families and local communities.
The Partner visa category is the largest component within the family stream. From 2022–23, the Partner program moved to a demand driven model which:
- recognises the social, economic and demographic benefits of family reunification and the Partner visa program in particular
- provides the flexibility to adjust the program in line with expected demand and help to reduce the Partner visa pipeline and processing times for many applicants.
The Parent visa program has been maintained at 8,500 places while the Other Family (including Aged Dependent Relative, Remaining Relative and Carer programs) visa category has been maintained at 500 places.
The Child visa program allows Australian residents to sponsor their dependent or adopted child or an orphaned relative. The Child program is demand-driven and remains set at 3,000 places for planning purposes only. The Australian Government prioritises the reunification of a child with an Australian parent or family sponsor. This ensures we uphold our international obligations to consider the best interest of a child as a primary consideration.
2024–25 permanent Migration Program consultation
The size and composition of the Migration Program is set each year alongside the Australian Government’s Budget process.
To inform the planning levels and policy settings of the 2024–25 Migration Program, consultation occurred with:
- state and territory governments
- academia
- industry
- unions
- community organisations.
When planning the Migration Program, the Australian Government considers the following:
- Public submissions
- Economic and labour force forecasts
- International research
- Demand for permanent visa programs
- Net overseas migration
- Economic and fiscal modelling.
The Department invites public submissions as part of the planning process for future Migration Programs. Submissions to inform the 2024–25 Migration Program have now closed. For more information, see Australia’s 2024–25 Migration Program.
Source: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels
Introduction
The Australian Government has introduced new amendments to the Migration Regulations 1994, impacting onshore student visa applications. The latest amendment, Migration (Specification of Categories of Visas that Preclude a Person from Lodging a Student Visa Application in Australia) Amendment Instrument (LIN 24/051) 2024, specifies additional categories of substantive temporary visas that prevent individuals from applying for a Student (Subclass 500) visa or a Student Guardian (Subclass 590) visa while in Australia. These changes take effect from July 1, 2024.
Overview of the Amendment
Under Item 1222(5)(c) of Schedule 1, LIN 24/051 amends the earlier IMMI 16/016 by adding six new visa subclasses to the list of those ineligible to apply for onshore student visas. This amendment aims to regulate the visa hopping phenomenon and ensure that the integrity of Australia’s visa system is maintained.
Impacted Visa Subclasses
The following six substantive temporary visa subclasses have been added to the list of those ineligible for onshore student visa applications:
- Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485)
- Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601)
- Medical Treatment (Subclass 602)
- eVisitor (Subclass 651)
- Maritime Crew (Subclass 988)
- Visitor (Subclass 600) – This includes the entire subclass, expanding the restriction from the previously specified Sponsored Family and Approved Destination Status streams.
Key Changes and Implications
- Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) Visa Holders: Individuals on a Temporary Graduate visa will no longer be able to transition directly to a student visa while in Australia. They must now leave the country to apply for a new student visa.
- Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) Holders: Previously, only the Sponsored Family and Approved Destination Status streams were restricted. Now, the entire subclass is included, meaning no visitor visa holders can apply for a student visa while in Australia.
Rationale Behind the Amendment
The amendments aim to curb the practice of visa hopping, where individuals exploit temporary visas to remain in Australia for extended periods by sequentially applying for different visas. This move is intended to strengthen the integrity of the Australian visa system and ensure that it serves its intended purpose.
Conclusion
The LIN 24/051 amendment introduces significant changes for those planning to apply for student visas while onshore in Australia. By including additional temporary visa subclasses in the list of those precluded from onshore applications, the Australian Government seeks to enhance the regulation of its visa system. Prospective students and guardians must now be more strategic in their visa planning and may need to make applications from outside Australia.
Key Dates
- Commencement Date: July 1, 2024
For further information, individuals are encouraged to consult the full text of the LIN 24/051 amendment and seek professional advice if needed.
This new amendment highlights the importance of understanding and adhering to visa regulations when planning to study in Australia. Ensuring compliance will help maintain the integrity of the Australian immigration system and provide a fair process for all applicants.
If you intend to pursue your education in Australia, preparing for the student visa interview is crucial. The Australian Government has a rigorous selection process, and being ready for challenging questions can significantly increase your chances of success. In this guide, we outline frequently asked questions and provide advice on how to answer them effectively.
Purpose of Your Trip
What is the purpose of your trip to Australia?
Your answer should be concise and clear, outlining your intention to pursue a specific degree or study program in Australia.
Why did you choose Australia for education?
Explain your motivation for selecting Australia over other countries, highlighting factors such as world-class universities, a variety of courses, and promising career prospects after graduation.
Previous Visits and University Details
Have you been to Australia before?
Answer truthfully. If you have, mention the reason for your visit and the duration of your stay.
Which college or university are you going to in Australia?
Provide the name of the institution where you have been accepted. Make sure you pronounce the name correctly.
Where is your college or university located?
Demonstrate your awareness of your institution’s exact location and its surrounding area’s specialties.
Why did you choose college over university?
If you chose a college, explain why it was a better fit for your goals, such as offering a specific course you wanted.
Course and Career Plans
Can you briefly describe the university you’ve selected?
Highlight key features of the university and what attracted you to it.
Did you apply to any other colleges or universities?
Be honest about any other applications you made and the responses you received.
Why have you chosen this course?
Explain how the course aligns with your career goals and why it is essential for your future.
Do you intend to stay in Australia once your degree is over?
Justify your decision to return home after completing your course, demonstrating your commitment to your home country.
Tell me about your course.
Provide an overview of the course and its structure to show your interest and understanding.
What is the duration of your course?
State the correct duration, such as one or two years, depending on your course.
When does your course start and finish?
Be aware of the commencement and end dates of your course and answer honestly.
How much does the chosen course cost?
State the cost in Australian dollars (AUD) as shown on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
How are you going to pay for the course?
Answer carefully, emphasizing that your financial support comes from reliable sources and not part-time work.
Is this course available in your home country?
Explain why studying in Australia is a better option than in your home country.
Do you plan to continue studying in Australia after your course ends?
Be honest about your future plans, whether you intend to continue studying or return home.
Do you have any plans to get PR in Australia after completing your course?
State that your intention is to return home after your studies, as the student visa does not provide a direct path to permanent residency.
Personal and Family Details
How many colleges did you receive acceptance to?
Answer truthfully about the number of acceptances you received.
What do you plan to do during your semester break?
Share your plans openly, such as spending time with family in your home country.
Do you have any plans to work in Australia?
Indicate that your primary focus is your studies and that you do not plan to work in Australia.
Where did you graduate from before applying for a student visa in Australia?
Provide the name of your previous institution and your academic credentials.
Why did you change your course of study?
If applicable, explain the reasons for changing your field of study sincerely and clearly.
How many siblings do you have?
Provide details about your siblings, their residence, and occupation.
What do you know about the work limitations of an Australian student visa?
Demonstrate your awareness of the work restrictions, such as the 40 hours per fortnight limit during the semester.
Who is funding your studies and accommodation in Australia?
Give a verifiable response, mentioning the person or entity funding your education and stay.
Tell me about your sponsor’s annual income and occupation.
Provide accurate details about your sponsor’s income and occupation, aligning with your supporting documents.
How many individuals depend on your sponsor for financial support?
Show that your sponsor can support you financially without any issues.
Language Proficiency and Personal Commitments
Why is your IELTS or TOEFL score so low?
Answer honestly, providing your original exam transcript and explaining any efforts to improve.
Why should a student visa be granted to you?
State the benefits of studying in Australia and how your enrollment will contribute to the university.
What if your visa application is rejected?
Express your determination to reapply, highlighting the importance of studying in Australia for your future.
Do you own any property in your home country?
List your possessions, such as vehicles, houses, or businesses, to demonstrate your ties to your home country.
Is your partner coming with you or not?
Answer honestly about whether your partner will accompany you to Australia.
How would you handle financial difficulties during your stay in Australia?
Assure the case officer that your sponsor can cover any financial difficulties.
Do you pay any income tax?
Confirm that you are a responsible tax-paying citizen if applicable.
What is your most recent qualification?
State your latest educational qualification, whether it’s a high school diploma or a degree.
Have there been any gaps in your studies?
Explain any gaps in your education honestly, providing valid reasons.
What are your plans after returning back to your country?
Highlight how the course will help you achieve your career goals upon returning home.
By thoroughly preparing for these questions, you can approach your Australian student visa interview with confidence and clarity.
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.
Fee increases for Federal Courts and Tribunals have been officially gazetted and will take effect from 1 July 2024. These adjustments will impact application fees for various reviews and filings, reflecting an upward revision from the previous fee structure. Below is a detailed breakdown of the new fees.
Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Fee Increases
From 1 July 2024, the application fees for reviews by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal will be as follows:
| Type of Review | New Fee | Previous Fee | Reduced Fee (50%) |
| Review of a migration decision under Part 5 of the Migration Act 1958 | $3,496 | $3,374 | $1,748 |
| Review of a protection visa decision under Part 7 of the Migration Act 1958 | $2,151 | $2,076 | N/A |
Note: The fee for a review of a protection visa decision is generally payable only if the application is unsuccessful.
Federal Circuit Court Fee Increases
The fees for filing an application with the Federal Circuit Court for a migration decision will also increase from 1 July 2024:
| Type of Application | New Fee | Previous Fee | Reduced Fee |
| Full fee for filing an application | $3,920 | $3,785 | N/A |
| Reduced fee under s 2.06A | $1,960 | $1,890 | N/A |
Accessing More Information
Members seeking further details on these fee increases are advised to consult the Government gazette. Additional information is available on the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) website and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia website.
These fee changes emphasize the necessity for applicants and practitioners to stay informed about the evolving costs associated with legal processes in Federal Courts and Tribunals.
Yes, you can bring your family to Australia on a student visa. You can add your family members and dependents while submitting your application for a student visa in Australia. While submitting your initial application for a student visa, you can include your family in your application, or you can wait until your course starts before inviting them to join you.
Even if you don’t intend to travel to Australia with your immediate family, you should list them on your visa application. Your family members won’t be able to travel to Australia with you later if you don’t declare them in your visa application.
Who Can You Add to Your Student Visa Application?
You can add your immediate family members to your student visa application, including:
- Your spouse or de facto partner.
- Your dependent children under 18 years of age.
- Your partner’s dependent children under 18 years of age.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Bringing Family Members on a Student Visa?
As an international student, you must fulfill the following eligibility requirements to bring your family members on a student visa:
- Relationship Evidence: Submit evidence of your relation with your dependant family members. This can include identity documents such as birth and marriage certificates.
- Financial Requirements: You must be financially stable enough to support your family during their stay in Australia. Submit evidence of financial stability in the form of bank statements.
- Health and Character Requirements: Your family members will also have to show proof that they fulfill certain character and health requirements. For this purpose, they need to provide evidence of medical exams and police clearance documents.
Bringing Your Partner on a Student Visa
You can add your spouse or de facto partner to your student visa application as a secondary applicant. For this purpose, you must submit evidence to support your relationship with your partner, including a marriage certificate and evidence of combined accommodation. Moreover, you and your partner must demonstrate that you are genuine temporary entrants.
Remember that your partner may have different work rights than you. In addition, you can also check the visa conditions and work rights by the visa grant letter or using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO).
Bringing Your Children on a Student Visa
You can bring your children to Australia if they are under 18 years of age while submitting a visa application. However, if they are 18 or above, they must apply for their own visa. In Australia, the cost of sending any dependent children to a public or private school falls on you. Australia’s school age is around five years old, while each state and territory may have a different start date.
There are child care centers on or close to the campuses of Australian educational institutions. Consider choosing a health care service that aligns with you and your child’s best interests.
Bringing Your Parent to Australia on a Student Visa
You can bring your parents to Australia with you if you are a student under the age of 18 so that they can offer support and care to you during your stay. But they must be:
- A parent or family member who is at least 21 years old.
- Financially independent enough to support both you and them while they’re visiting.
- Capable of offering you housing, welfare, and more assistance.
For this purpose, your parents must apply for a Student Guardian visa. Keep in mind that your parents cannot work in Australia and must live with you during their stay. Moreover, they must be genuine temporary entrants.
Bringing Your Family at a Later Time on a Student Visa
Even if your family members do not intend to go to Australia right away, they must be listed on your student visa application. They won’t be able to accompany you to Australia on a student visa at any point if you don’t include them on your application.
How to Apply?
Your family member or members may later apply via ImmiAccount as a subsequent entrant, independent of your application. After submitting your application and before your visa application is decided, if someone becomes a member of your family, you need to notify the Department of Home Affairs of the change in your situation.
Conclusion
So by now, you’ve got the answer to your question “Can I bring my family to Australia on a student visa?”. You can add your immediate family members to your application for a student visa or you can also invite them after starting your course in Australia. However, if you have any questions or confusion, it is better to consult an immigration lawyer instead of trying on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my spouse work in Australia if they come on a student visa? Yes, your spouse can work in Australia, but their work rights may vary depending on your visa conditions and the course you are studying.
- What is the cost of bringing my family to Australia on a student visa? The cost includes visa application fees, school fees for children, and living expenses. It is essential to show financial capability to support your family.
- Can my children attend public schools in Australia? Yes, your children can attend public schools, but you will be responsible for their school fees.
- Can I bring my family to Australia after I have already started my course? Yes, you can invite your family members to join you after you have started your course, provided you included them in your initial visa application.
- What happens if I don’t include my family in my initial visa application? If you do not include your family members in your initial visa application, they will not be able to accompany you to Australia later on the same visa.
Highlights
- Zero initial course fee: No upfront payment required for course enrollment.
- Same day processing: Offer letters and Confirmation of Enrollments (CoEs) issued on the same day.
- Limited time offer: Valid until the end of June 2024.
- Eligibility: Onshore temporary visa holders.
Introduction
EMK Global Education and Migration is offering a unique opportunity for onshore temporary visa holders to apply for a new student visa with a $0 Confirmation of Enrollment (COE) deposit. This special offer aims to make it easier for temporary visa holders to continue their education in Australia without the burden of an initial course fee.
Zero Initial Course Fee
For a limited time, EMK Global Education and Migration is waiving the initial course fee for eligible applicants. This means that onshore temporary visa holders can enroll in a course without making any upfront payments, easing the financial burden and making it more accessible for those looking to further their education in Australia.
Same Day Processing
In addition to the zero initial course fee, EMK Global offers same-day processing for all offer letters and Confirmation of Enrollments (CoEs). This expedited service ensures that applicants receive their necessary documentation promptly, allowing them to proceed with their student visa applications without delay.
Eligibility and Terms
This offer is available exclusively to onshore temporary visa holders. It is designed to provide a smooth transition for those looking to continue their studies in Australia. However, it is important to note that terms and conditions apply. Interested applicants should contact EMK Global Education and Migration to understand the specific requirements and ensure they meet the eligibility criteria.
Limited Time Offer
This special promotion is valid until the end of June 2024. Onshore temporary visa holders are encouraged to take advantage of this offer before it expires. By doing so, they can secure their place in an educational institution without the need for an initial course fee, and benefit from the convenience of same-day processing for their offer letters and CoEs.
Conclusion
EMK Global Education and Migration’s offer of a $0 COE deposit and same-day processing for onshore temporary visa holders presents a valuable opportunity for those looking to continue their education in Australia. With no initial course fee required and expedited documentation, this limited-time offer provides significant financial relief and convenience. Eligible individuals are encouraged to act quickly and contact EMK Global to take advantage of this promotion before the end of June 2024.
Highlights
- Two temporary visa pathways closed: Visitor Visa holders and Temporary Graduate Visa holders can no longer apply for Student Visas from within Australia as of 1 July 2024.
- Visitor to Student Visa transition: Over 36,000 applications were lodged between 1 July 2023 and May 2024, leading to the policy change.
- Graduate Visa holders: A significant percentage returned to further study to extend their stay, prompting the reform.
- Government’s intent: To reduce net overseas migration and ensure a more strategic migration system.
Introduction
In a significant policy shift, the Australian government has announced new measures to close two temporary visa pathways. Effective from 1 July 2024, Visitor Visa holders and Temporary Graduate Visa holders will no longer be able to apply for Student Visas from within Australia. This move is part of a broader package of migration reforms aimed at tightening visa regulations and maintaining the integrity of Australia’s immigration system.
Visitor Visa to Student Visa Pathway Closed
From 1 July 2024, individuals holding Visitor Visas will be prohibited from transitioning to Student Visas while in Australia. This decision follows a notable increase in such applications, with over 36,000 submitted from 1 July 2023 to the end of May 2024. The Department of Home Affairs highlighted that this pathway had become a prevalent method for individuals to bypass standard immigration procedures.
Temporary Graduate Visa to Student Visa Pathway Closed
Similarly, Temporary Graduate Visa holders will no longer be eligible to apply for Student Visas onshore starting 1 July 2024. This measure addresses concerns raised in an October 2023 report by the Grattan Institute, which found that many Temporary Graduate Visa holders pursued further study to extend their stay. The report revealed that less than one-third of these visa holders transition to permanent residency upon visa expiry, compared to two-thirds in 2014. Instead, many opt for cheaper vocational courses to prolong their stay, creating a “visa limbo.”
Government’s Strategic Intent
The Australian government aims to direct graduates towards securing skilled jobs and either transitioning to permanent residency or leaving the country. This is part of a larger strategy to reduce net overseas migration and ensure a more planned and strategic approach to migration. Minister for Home Affairs Clare O’Neil stated, “Our goal is to build a smaller, better planned, more strategic migration system that works for Australia. Our Migration Strategy outlines a clear plan to close the loopholes in international education and this is the next step in delivering that plan.”
Implications and Reactions
The new measures will significantly impact international students and graduates currently in Australia or planning to study there. Educational institutions and businesses reliant on international talent may need to adjust their strategies to comply with the new regulations. While some stakeholders in the education sector express concerns about potential decreases in international student enrollment, proponents argue that the reforms will help maintain the integrity of Australia’s migration system and ensure that those who stay contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Conclusion
As Australia continues to refine its migration policies, these changes mark a pivotal shift towards a more controlled and strategic approach to managing international education and migration. The closure of these visa pathways is a critical step in the government’s effort to build a more sustainable and integrity-focused migration system.
Great news for aspiring migrants aiming to build their careers in Australia! Starting June 12, VETASSESS will reopen applications for skill assessments in the occupations of Chef and Fitter. This is a significant update following the pause on new applications for these roles since September 2023.
What You Need to Know
Why the Pause?
VETASSESS, a prominent skills assessment authority, had temporarily halted new applications for Chefs and Fitters to ensure their processes remained efficient and up-to-date. This pause allowed them to refine their assessment methods and ensure that they meet the highest standards required for Australian migration.
What’s Changing on June 12?
The reopening of these skill assessments means that aspiring Chefs and Fitters can now start their application process. This is a crucial step for those looking to migrate to Australia, as a positive skill assessment is often a prerequisite for visa applications.
Why Migrate as a Chef or Fitter?
High Demand Occupations: Australia has a growing demand for skilled professionals in the culinary and mechanical trades. Chefs and Fitters are highly sought after in various sectors, from hospitality to manufacturing, making these professions attractive for potential migrants.
Career Opportunities: Migrating as a Chef or Fitter opens doors to numerous career opportunities across Australia’s vibrant cities and regions. These roles not only offer competitive salaries but also provide a pathway to long-term residency and career advancement in a supportive and dynamic environment.
How EMK Global Education and Migration Can Help
Navigating the migration process can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. EMK Global Education and Migration offers comprehensive support to ensure your skill assessment and migration journey is smooth and successful.
Our Services Include:
- Expert Guidance: Our experienced consultants will guide you through every step of the VETASSESS skill assessment process, ensuring you meet all requirements and submit a strong application.
- Document Preparation: We’ll assist in gathering and organizing your documents, making sure everything is in order before submission to VETASSESS.
- Application Management: From initial consultation to the final submission, we manage your application to avoid any errors or delays.
- Follow-up Support: Post-submission, we continue to support you, addressing any queries or additional requirements from VETASSESS.
Get Started Today!
If you’re dreaming of a new life in Australia as a Chef or Fitter, now is the time to act. With the reopening of skill assessments, your pathway to migration is clearer than ever.
Contact EMK Global Education and Migration today to start your skill assessment process. Our dedicated team is here to help you achieve your migration goals and embark on a successful career in Australia.
Don’t miss this opportunity to take the next step towards your Australian dream!