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Tag Archives: Australian News

August 2, 2024

The 2024-25 Skilled Migration State Nomination Program is now open for Registrations of Interest. Updated eligibility requirements, policy guidance and service fees apply.

Features of the 2024-25 Skilled Migration State Nomination Program

The 2024-25 program includes:

  • Changes to priority attributes, including a reduction in green attributes and a new “orange-plus” attribute category.
  • All occupations listed on the Australian Government’s subclass 190 and 491 list remain eligible for nomination in at least one program pathway.
  • 18 new occupation groups, comprising 78 individual occupations, have been added to the Tasmanian Onshore Skilled Occupation List for the subclass 190 Tasmanian Skilled Employment pathway. Candidates with a skills assessment and directly related employment qualify for permanent visa nomination after six months of work.
  • Changes to income thresholds in minimum eligibility requirement and priority attributes based on updates to Australian median and average earnings and the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold.
  • An updated critical roles list (for gold priority in the Tasmania Skilled Employment, Skilled Graduate and Established Resident pathways).
  • More detailed policy guidance in the Additional Information, Exclusions and Definitions section of the Migration Tasmania website.
  • An increased service fee to apply for nomination to $360 (plus $36 GST). There is no charge to submit a Registration of Interest.

Change to priority attributes

Green priority attributes have been reduced for the Tasmanian Skilled Employment, Skilled Graduate Established Resident and Business Owner pathways. Some previously green attributes have been moved to a new “orange-plus” category. This will provide greater certainty, allowing all green pass holders to receive an invitation to apply for nomination within eight weeks of submitting a registration of interest.

Candidates with at least one orange-plus attribute will  be issued an Orange Pass. However they will be noted internally by Migration Tasmania as a high priority and are highly likely to receive an invitation to apply for nomination within six months. The higher the number of orange-plus attributes a candidate attains, the sooner an invitation will be issued.

All subclass 190 candidates with at least one orange-plus attribute will be invited to apply for nomination this program year.

Employment must be skilled to claim orange-plus attributes.

Additions to the Tasmanian Onshore Skilled Occuaption List (TOSOL)

The TOSOL is used to determine eligibility for subclass 190 nomination in the Tasmanian Skilled Employment – TOSOL option nomination Pathway. It lists skilled occupation groups for which employers are currently experiencing significant recruitment difficulty. It also aims to attract new skilled migrants by providing a fast and simple pathway to permanent residency.

Candidates may have a migration skills assessment and an employment role within the same four-digit group to be considered for subclass 190 nomination in the Tasmanian Skilled Employment Pathway. Where an occupation is not on the Home Affairs skilled occupation lists, and a skills assessment is not available for that role, candidates may have a skills assessment for any one of the occupations listed in that group.

For example, an applicant who holds a skills assessment for “232212 Surveyor” could be working in any of the roles listed in the “2322 Surveyors and Spatial Scientists” group to meet the subclass 190 nomination requirement.

The following 19 occupation groups have been added to the TOSOL.

1311    Advertising, Public Relations and Sales Managers

1322    Finance Managers

1342    Health and Welfare Services Managers

1351    ICT Managers

2223    Financial Investment Advisers and Managers

2231    Human Resource Professionals

2242    Archivists, Curators and Records Managers

2321    Architects and Landscape Architects

2325    Interior Designers

2326    Urban and Regional Planners

2343    Environmental Scientists

2713    Solicitors

3112    Medical Technicians

3114    Science Technicians

3129    Other Building and Engineering Technicians

3611    Animal Attendants and Trainers

3991    Boat Builders and Shipwrights

4111    Ambulance Officers and Paramedics

Critical Roles list

The critical roles list is used to prioritise invitations to apply for nomination based on employment in highly skilled roles.

Thirty-seven occupations have been added to the critical roles list and 30 have been removed. The impact of removal is minor, as all candidates working in their skills assessment area are of high priority for nomination.

All the occupations slated for removal remain high priority and are included in the updated TOSOL.

AddedRemoved
135111    Chief Information Officer
135112   ICT Project Manager
135199   ICT Managers nec
224211   Archivist
224212   Gallery or Museum Curator
224213   Health Information Manager
224214   Records Manager
233311   Electrical Engineer
233411   Electronics Engineer
233911   Aeronautical Engineer
233912   Agricultural Engineer
233913   Biomedical Engineer
233914   Engineering Technologist
233915   Environmental Engineer
233916   Naval Architect / Marine Designer
233999   Engineering Professionals nec
234211   Chemist
234212   Food Technologist
234213   Wine Maker
261111   ICT Business Analyst
261112    Systems Analyst
261113    User Experience Designer  (ICT)
261211   Multimedia Specialist
261212   Web Developer
263111    Computer Network and  Systems Engineer
263112   Network Administrator
263113    Network Analyst
263211   ICT Quality Assurance Engineer
263212   ICT Support Engineer
263213   ICT Systems Test Engineer
263299   ICT Support and Test Engineers nec
411211   Dental Hygienist
411212   Dental Prosthetist
411213   Dental Technician
411214   Dental Therapist
411311    Diversional Therapist
411411   Enrolled Nurse
133111   Construction Project Manager
133112   Project Builder
133211   Engineering Manager
232212   Surveyor
232213   Cartographer
232214   Other Spatial Scientist
232411   Graphic Designer
232412   Illustrator
232413   Multimedia Designer
232414   Web Designer
233211   Civil Engineer
233212   Geotechnical Engineer
233213   Quantity Surveyor
233214   Structural Engineer
233215   Transport Engineer
234111   Agricultural Consultant
234113   Forester / Forest Scientist
234711   Veterinarian
252111   Chiropractor
252112   Osteopath
311112   Agricultural and Agritech Technician
312111    Architectural Draftsperson
312113   Building Inspector
312114   Construction Estimator
312116   Surveying or Spatial Science Technician
312199   Architectural, Building and Surveying Technicians nec
312211   Civil Engineering Draftsperson
312212   Civil Engineering Technician
312511   Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson
312512   Mechanical Engineering Technician

Policy Guidance (Additional Information, Exclusions and Definitions)

Changes to the Additional Information, Exclusions and Definitions section of the Migration Tasmania website:

  • Income thresholds updated to reflect latest Australian average and median earnings and the new Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold.
  • Excluded business operations – clarification about including parcel delivery contracting services (eg, Australia Post, Aramex). These are accepted as employment where the applicant has a related skills assessment or at least two years’ prior experience.
  • Claiming skilled employment related to gold or green attributes – Additional guidance about indicators of skilled employment including:
    • Roles that match ANZSCO Skill Levels 1,2 or 3
    • Pay rate above the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold
    • Pay rate at or around National Minimum Salary isan indicator that employment is not skilled.
  • Excluded employment – employment with a related skills assessment as Chef, Cook, or Café or Restaurant manager in a fast casual restaurant or café business is now accepted. It is not accepted in relation to limited-service restaurants:
    • Fast casual restaurants combine elements of fast food and casual dining, blending the speed and convenience of fast food chains and the quality and atmosphere of a casual restaurant. These establishments typically offer freshly prepared dishes, and a more appealing dining environment without the full table service of traditional sit-down restaurants. Fast casual restaurants and cafes are usually characterised by:
      • Made-to-order meals emphasising higher quality ingredients
      • Limited service or self service
      • Upscale or highly developed décor
      • All ingredients/meals are prepared on-premises
      • Off-premise and on-premise dining, but with an emphasis on dining in
      • Lower average meal price than fine dining
      • No drive-through.
  • ANZSCO 4 or 5 roles – Qualifications or experience consistent with ANZSCO – Claiming employment in lieu of qualification specified in ANZSCO for a role – clarification added that for the purposes of Tasmanian nomination only qualification will be accepted:

If using employment in a role equivalent to ANZSCO Skill Level 4 or 5 to meet minimum requirements or priority attributes, you must have the relevant qualifications or experience as defined in ANZSCO (note that for the purposes of this program qualifications must be a minimum Certificate III, or at least 12 months experience).

For example, if working as a Retail Supervisor (ANZSCO 621511 – ANZSCO Skill Level 4), you must have an AQF Certificate III or at least one year of relevant experience.

For some occupations ANZSCO indicates that an amount of time in employment may substitute for the specified qualification. However, for the purposes of Tasmanian nomination you cannot use that work experience concession for ANZSCO 4 or 5 work: you will need the relevant qualification to claim this priority attribute.

Where ANZSCO does not list a qualification or experience for an occupation Migration Tasmania requires you to have a related AQF Certificate III qualification or one year of relevant Australian experience.

Where a priority attribute or Gateway question / response specifically refers to a qualification, experience cannot be used as a substitute.

  • Employment related to skills assessment or study – additional guidance about how a relationship between employment and Tasmanian study can be shown:

If you are claiming employment in a skilled role directly related to your Tasmanian study, one way this can be shown is by supplying a role description or relevant job advertisement demonstrating that the role requires the qualification you gained.

For example, if you have completed a Bachelor of Social Work or have a skills assessment as a Social Worker, your job advertisement or job description may state:

“A Bachelor of Social Work or a Diploma of Community Welfare Work or other tertiary qualifications at Diploma or above level which includes units of case management/casework practice and supervised practical work placements in relevant fields.”

Migration Tasmania would accept this employment as being directly related to your study.

  • Job interviews related to skills assessment or Tasmanian study – New guidance clarifying that this can only be claimed if the applicant is not currently in skilled employment.
  • Genuine employment / business operation – indicators of concern – New item listing indicators of concern regarding employment claims that could prompt an officer to consider deeper checks from an applicant or employing business. All available information will be assessed and a determination made on the balance of information. This may lead to a decision to decline nomination.

Applications lodged or invited and before 12:00pm

Applications for nomination that have been lodged but not decided or have been invited before 1 August 2024 will continue to be processed against the requirements that were in place at the time of invitation.

Registrations of Interest submitted in the 2023-24 program year

Registrations of Interest (ROIs) submitted during before 1 July 2024 will remain valid for the 2024-25 program year up until the six-month expiry date or until an invitation to apply for nomination is issued.

If invited to apply for nomination, the requirements and settings in place at the time of ROI submission will apply.

New priority attributes apply to ROIs submitted from 12pm 1 August 2024. In cases where new requirements are likely to be beneficial, candidates may wish to withdraw their current ROI and submit a new one.

Questions?

If you have any questions about The Tasmanian Skilled Migration State Nomination Program you can email us at contact@emkglobal.com.au

Source: https://www.migration.tas.gov.au/news/important_update_subclass_190_rois_accepting_only_gold_pass_candidates

June 28, 2024

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:

  1. Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485)
  2. Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601)
  3. Medical Treatment (Subclass 602)
  4. eVisitor (Subclass 651)
  5. Maritime Crew (Subclass 988)
  6. 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.

June 26, 2024

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.

June 24, 2024

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.

June 21, 2024

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 ReviewNew FeePrevious FeeReduced 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$2,076N/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 ApplicationNew FeePrevious FeeReduced Fee
Full fee for filing an application$3,920$3,785N/A
Reduced fee under s 2.06A$1,960$1,890N/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.

June 17, 2024

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Can my children attend public schools in Australia? Yes, your children can attend public schools, but you will be responsible for their school fees.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
June 14, 2024

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.

June 14, 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.