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SkillSelect EOI Invitation Round Results FY2025–2026: Subclass 189 & 491 Visas

M & Z Consultancy — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 04:33:07 +0000

SkillSelect EOI Invitation RoundResults FY2025–2026: Subclass 189 & 491 Visas

The Department of Home Affairs has published the results of the most recent SkillSelect invitation round, which determines invitations for the following visas:

Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent visa
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (Family Sponsored stream)

Invitations issued on 21 August 2025

The table below shows the number of EOIs invited, and the tie break month and year, for the SkillSelect invitation round on 21 August 2025.

Visa subclass	Total EOIs Invited	Tie break date – month and year
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)	6,887	08/2025
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family Sponsored	150	05/2025

Invitations issued by occupation and minimum score invited

Occupation	189	491
Actuary	90	N/A*
Agricultural Consultant	90	N/A*
Agricultural Scientist	90	N/A*
Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber	65	70
Architect	90	N/A*
Arts Administrator or Manager	90	N/A*
Audiologist	80	65
Barrister	95	N/A*
Biochemist	90	N/A*
Biotechnologist	90	N/A*
Boat Builder and Repairer	90	N/A*
Bricklayer	65	70
Cardiologist	80	80
Carpenter	65	N/A*
Carpenter and Joiner	65	N/A*
Cartographer	90	N/A*
Chemical Engineer	90	N/A*
Chemist	90	N/A*
Child Care Centre Manager	90	N/A*
Civil Engineering Draftsperson	90	N/A*
Civil Engineering Technician	90	N/A*
Clinical Psychologist	75	N/A*
Conservator	90	N/A*
Construction Project Manager	90	N/A*
Dermatologist	100	N/A*
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist	85	N/A*
Drainer	65	N/A*
Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher	85	80
Economist	90	N/A*
Educational Psychologist	85	N/A*
Electrical Engineering Draftsperson	90	N/A*
Electrial Engineering Technician	90	N/A*
Electrician (General)	65	75
Electrician (Special Class)	65	N/A*
Electronic Equipment Trades Worker	110	N/A*
Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (Special Class)	95	N/A*
Electronics Engineer	95	N/A*
Emergency Medicine Specialist	80	N/A*
Engineering Manager	90	N/A*
Enviromental Consultant	90	N/A*
Enviromental Manager	90	N/A*
Enviromental Research Scientist	90	N/A*
Enviromental Scientists nec	90	N/A*
Fibrous Plasterer	90	N/A*
Food Technologist	90	N/A*
Forester	90	N/A*
Gasfitter	65	80
Gastroenterologist	80	N/A
General Practitioner	80	N/A*
Geophysicist	90	N/A*
Glazier	65	N/A*
Hydrogeologist	90	N/A*
Intensive Care Specialist	80	N/A*
Joiner	65	N/A*
Land Economist	90	N/A*
Landscape Architect	90	N/A*
Life Scientist (General)	90	N/A*
Life Scientists nec	90	N/A*
Management Consultant	90	N/A*
Marine Biologist	90	N/A*
Materials Engineer	90	N/A*
Medical Diagnostic Radiographer	80	90
Medical Labratory Scientist	90	N/A*
Medical Practioners nec	80	N/A*
Medical Radiation Therapist	80	N/A*
Metal Fabricator	105	N/A*
Metal Machinist (First Class)	85	N/A*
Metallurgist	90	N/A*
Meterologist	95	N/A*
Microbiologist	90	N/A*
Midwife	80	75
Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum)	90	N/A*
Musician (Instrumental)	90	N/A*
Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec	90	N/A*
Neurologist	80	N/A*
Nuclear Medicine Technologist	80	N/A*
Nurse Practitioner	80	N/A*
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist	80	N/A*
Occupational Therapist	80	N/A*
Ophthamologist	80	N/A*
Optometrist	80	N/A*
Orthopaedic Surgeon	85	N/A*
Osteopath	100	N/A*
Other Spatial Scientist	90	N/A*
Paediatric Surgeon	85	N/A*
Paeditrician	85	N/A*
Painting Trades Worker	70	N/A*
Panelbeater	90	N/A*
Petroleum Engineer	90	N/A*
Physicist	90	N/A*
Physiotherapist	80	80
Plumber (General)	65	80
Podiatrist	80	N/A*
Primary Health Organisation Manager	90	N/A
Psychiatrist	80	N/A*
Psychologists nec	85	N/A*
Registered Nurse (Aged Care)	80	80
Registered Nurse (Child and Family Health)	80	N/A*
Registered Nurse (Community Health)	80	N/A*
Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency)	80	65
Registered Nurse (Developmental Disability)	80	N/A*
Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation)	80	N/A*
Registed Nurse (Medical Practice)	80	N/A*
Registered Nurse (Medical)	80	65
Registered Nurse (Mental Health)	80	90
Registered Nurse (Paediatrics)	80	85
Registered Nurse (Perioperative)	80	85
Registered Nurse (Surgical)	80	80
Registered Nurses nec	80	5
Roof Plumber	65	N/A*
Secondary School Teacher	85	80
Solicitor	90	N/A*
Solid Plasterer	65	N/A*
Sonographer	80	N/A*
Special Needs Teacher	85	80
Specialist Physician (General Medicine)	80	N/A*
Specialist Physicians nec	80	N/A*
Speech Pathologist	80	65
Statistician	90	N/A*
Stonemason	65	N/A*
Surveyor	90	N/A*
Tennis Coach	95	N/A*
Thoracic Medicine Specialist	80	N/A
University Lecturer	85	80
Urologist	80	N/A*
Valuer	90	N/A*
Veterinarian	90	N/A*
Wall and Floor Tiler	65	75
Welder (First Class)	90	N/A*
Zoologist	90	N/A*

The post SkillSelect EOI Invitation Round Results FY2025–2026: Subclass 189 & 491 Visas first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

Working Holiday in Australia with the 417 Visa

M & Z Consultancy — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:21:01 +0000

Working Holiday in Australia with the 417 Visa

Introduction

Are you a young adventurer from Taiwan or Hong Kong dreaming of exploring Australia’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique culture while earning money along the way? The Working Holiday 417 Visa is your ticket to an unforgettable experience! Additionally, this visa allows you to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months, giving you the perfect opportunity to fund your travels while immersing yourself in the Australian way of life.

At M & Z Consultancy, we specialize in helping applicants like you navigate the visa application process smoothly and efficiently. Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking to extend your stay, our team of experienced migration agents is here to guide you every step of the way.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the Subclass 417 visa, including eligibility, how to apply, and what you can do once you’re in Australia. Let’s dive in!

What is the Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)?

The Subclass 417 visa is designed for young people aged 18 to 30 who want to holiday in Australia and work temporarily to support their travels. Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to experience Australia’s diverse culture, meet new people, and gain international work experience.

For citizens of Taiwan and Hong Kong, this visa offers the chance to explore Australia’s iconic destinations, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Outback, while earning money through short-term jobs.

Key Benefits of the Subclass 417 Visa

Stay in Australia for up to 12 months.
Study or train for up to 4 months.
Travel freely in and out of Australia during the visa period.
Extend your stay for a second or third year if you meet specific requirements.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants from Taiwan and Hong Kong

To apply for the Subclass 417 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

Age: You must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
Passport: You must hold a valid passport from Taiwan or Hong Kong.
Financial Proof: You must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your initial stay in Australia (approximately AUD 5,000).
Health and Character: You must meet health and character requirements.
No Prior 417 Visa: If you’re applying for your first Working Holiday visa, you must not have previously held a Subclass 417 or 462 visa.

How to Apply for the Subclass 417 Visa

Applying for the Working Holiday Visa is straightforward, but it can be overwhelming if you’re doing it on your own. That’s why M & Z Consultancy comes in! Our team of migration experts will handle the entire process for you, ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.

Here’s how we can help:

Initial Consultation: We will assess your eligibility and provide personalized advice tailored to your situation.
Document Preparation: We will help you gather and organize all required documents, including proof of funds, health insurance, and character documents.
Application Submission: Our team will complete and submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow-Up and Support: We will monitor your application’s progress and liaise with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf.
Second or Third-Year Visa: If you decide to extend your stay, we will guide you through the process of meeting the specified work requirements and applying for an additional visa.

What Can You Do on a Subclass 417 Visa?

The Working Holiday Visa offers incredible flexibility. Here’s what you can do during your stay:

Work: Take on short-term jobs to fund your travels. Popular industries include hospitality, agriculture, retail, and tourism.
Travel: Explore Australia’s breathtaking landscapes, from the beaches of Bondi to the rainforests of Queensland.
Study: Enroll in short courses or training programs for up to 4 months.
Extend Your Stay: If you meet the specific employment requirements, you may be eligible for a second or third Working Holiday visa.

Why Choose M & Z Consultancy?

At M & Z Consultancy, we understand that applying for a visa can be stressful and time-consuming. That’s why we are here to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Here’s why you should choose us:

Expert Guidance: Our team of registered migration agents has extensive experience with Working Holiday visas and other visa types.
Personalized Service: We tailor our services to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
High Success Rate: We pride ourselves on our high visa approval rate and positive client feedback.
End-to-End Support: From the initial consultation to visa approval, we will be with you every step of the way.

Tips for a Successful Working Holiday Experience

Plan Ahead: Research job opportunities and accommodation before arriving in Australia.
Budget Wisely: Australia can be expensive, so manage your finances carefully.
Network: Join online communities and social groups for Working Holiday visa holders to connect with others and share tips.
Explore Regional Areas: Not only will you discover hidden gems, but you will also increase your chances of qualifying for a second-year visa.

Start Your Australian Adventure Today!

The Subclass 417 Working Holiday Visa is your gateway to an incredible year of exploration, work, and personal growth. Whether you are hiking in the Blue Mountains, working on a farm in regional Victoria, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Sydney, this visa offers endless opportunities.

Ready to take the first step? Let M & Z Consultancy handle the complexities of your visa application so you can focus on planning your adventure. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you make your dream a reality!

📞 Call Us: (03) 9125 9006
📧 Email Us: info@mzconsultancy.com.au
🌐 Visit Us: https://mzconsultancy.com.au/

Australia is waiting for you, apply today and make your dream adventure a reality!

Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website. Visa processing times and requirements are subject to change.

The post Working Holiday in Australia with the 417 Visa first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

NEW Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa

M & Z Consultancy — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 23:18:40 +0000

NEW Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa

Overview

The Skills in Demand (SID) visa replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482). The SID visa allows most visa holders to stay in Australia for up to four years. It offers a streamlined process for both migrants and employers seeking skilled workers to grow their businesses.

SID visa holders benefit from a clear pathway to permanent residence, providing certainty for both migrants and employers.

SID Visa Streams

The SID visa has three streams tailored to address various workforce needs:

Core Skills Stream:Designed to meet targeted workforce shortages. Most SID visa holders will use this stream.
Specialist Skills Stream:Focused on attracting highly skilled migrants to drive innovation and job creation.
Labour Agreement Stream:Currently being replaced by the Essential Skills Stream, which is under development.

Benefits of the SID Visa

With a SID visa, you can:

Access a pathway to permanent residence. Any work with an approved employer counts toward this pathway.
Fulfill a reduced work experience requirement compared to the TSS visa. SID applicants need one year of work experience in their nominated occupation or a related field.
Meet the same English language requirements as the TSS medium-term stream (equivalent to an IELTS band score of 5 in all four components).

SID Visa Streams in Detail

Specialist Skills Stream

This stream acknowledges that highly skilled migrants contribute significantly to national productivity. It is designed for applicants who:

Meet general eligibility requirements.
Have an occupation listed in the ANZSCO 2022, excluding ANZSCO Major Group levels 3, 7, and 8 (e.g., trades workers, machinery operators, drivers, and laborers).
Earn at least the Specialist Skills Income Threshold of AUD135,000, ensuring parity with Australian workers in the same roles.

Core Skills Stream

This stream addresses workforce shortages by targeting specific occupations. To be eligible, applicants must:

Meet general eligibility requirements.
Have an occupation listed on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) identified as being in shortage. This includes roles aligned with Australia’s commitments under international trade agreements.
Be paid a salary at or above the Core Skills Income Threshold of AUD73,150.

Transition from the TSS Visa

Applications for the TSS visa closed on 6 December 2024. Outstanding applications lodged before this date will continue to be processed under the existing arrangements.

TSS visa holders will retain access to a pathway for permanent residence, provided they meet all relevant eligibility criteria.

Need Help?

If you need further information about the new Skills in Demand Visa or assistance with your application, please contact our team. We are here to guide you through every step of the process.

The post NEW Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

Are You in a De Facto Relationship?

M & Z Consultancy — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 06:53:13 +0000

You might have heard the term “De facto relationship,” especially in the context of Australian visa applications. But what exactly does it mean? Today, let us dive into the concept of a De facto relationship and how it plays a crucial role in visa applications, particularly in Australia.

1. What is a De facto Relationship?

A De facto relationship refers to a couple living together in a genuine domestic partnership, similar to a marriage, but without being legally married. In Australia, this type of relationship is recognised by law, especially when applying for certain types of visas, such as the Partner Visa.

2. How is a De facto Relationship Defined?

To be considered in a De facto relationship, you typically need to meet the following criteria:

Living Together: You and your partner must live together on a regular basis, not just casual dating or short-term cohabitation.
Length of the Relationship: In most cases, you need to have been living together for at least 12 months.
Financial Interdependence: You and your partner should show a level of financial dependence or sharing, such as having joint bank accounts or sharing household expenses.
Social Recognition: Your relationship should be known to others, such as friends, family, or colleagues, who recognize you as a couple.
Commitment to the Future: The relationship must be genuine and ongoing, with both partners intending to continue it long-term.

3. Benefits of a De facto Relationship

In Australia, being in a De facto relationship grants you similar legal rights as being married. For instance, if you are in a De facto relationship, you may be eligible to apply for a Partner Visa, which allows you to stay and live in Australia, regardless of whether you are legally married.

4. How to Prove a De facto Relationship?

When applying for a visa based on a De facto relationship, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim, such as:

Joint bank accounts or shared financial obligations (bills, rent, etc.).
Lease agreements or property ownership documents showing you live together.
Photos or travel records proving your time spent together.
Statutory declarations from friends or family confirming your relationship.

5. Conclusion

A De facto relationship is a significant aspect of Australian migration law, especially for couples who are not legally married. If you are thinking of applying for a Partner or De facto visa, it is important to understand what qualifies as a De facto relationship and how to prove it.

Hopefully, this post has helped clarify what a De facto relationship is and how it can benefit your visa application. Feel free to contact us if you are curious about Australian migration or need further advice!

The post Are You in a De Facto Relationship? first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

Australian Visa Application Fee from July 2024

M & Z Consultancy — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 04:06:11 +0000

Australian Visa Application Fee from July 2024

Matter Type	Dept Base Application Charge (AUD)	Dept Additional Applicant Charge 18+ (AUD)	Dept Additional Applicant Charge Under 18 (AUD)	Dept Second VAC Instalment Charge 18+ (AUD)	Dept Second VAC Instalment Under 18 (AUD)
Subclass 010 – Bridging Visa A	0	0	0
Subclass 020 – Bridging Visa B	185	0	0
Subclass 030 – Bridging Visa C	0	0	0
Subclass 050 – Bridging Visa E	0	0	0
Subclass 101 – Child Visa	3140	1570	790
Subclass 102 – Adoption Visa	3140	1570	790
Subclass 103 – Parent Visa	5125	2565	1285	2065	2065
Subclass 114 – Aged Dependent Relative Visa	5125	2565	1285	2065	2065
Subclass 115 – Remaining Relative Visa	5125	2565	1285	2065	2065
Subclass 116 – Carer Visa	2115	1060	530	2065	2065
Subclass 117 – Orphan Relative Visa	1920	960	485
Subclass 143 – Contributory Parent Visa	4895	1650	830	43600	43600
Subclass 143 – Contributory Parent Visa (conversion from Subclass 173)	430	220	105	19420	19420
Subclass 151 – Former Resident Visa	4665	2330	1165	4890
Subclass 155 – Five Year Resident Return Visa	475
Subclass 157 – Three Month Resident Return Visa	475
Subclass 159 – Provisional Resident Return Visa	245	125	60
Subclass 173 – Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa	3300	1650	830	29130	29130
Subclass 186 – Nomination (subject to stream and location)	540
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme Visa	4770	2385	1190	4890
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa	4765	2385	1195	4885
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa	4765	2385	1195	4885
Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa- Regional Provisional Stream	490	245	125
Subclass 191 – Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa – Hong Kong Stream	4765	2380	1195	4885
Subclass 200, 201, 203 and 204 Refugee category visas	0
Subclass 300 – Prospective Marriage Visa	9095	4550	2280
Subclass 309 /100 – Offshore Partner Visa	9095	4550	2280
Subclass 400 – Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity) Visa	415	415	105
Subclass 403 – Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa – Government Agreement	365	355	95
Subclass 403 – Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa – Domestic Worker	365
Subclass 403 – Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa – Privileges & Immunities	0
Subclass 403 – Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa – Foreign Government	365	365	95
Subclass 403 – Temporary Work (International Relations) Visa – Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme	345	335	80
Subclass 407 – Temporary Activities Sponsorship	420
Subclass 407 – Nomination	170
Subclass 407 – Training Visa	415	415	105
Subclass 408 – Temporary Activity Visa	415	415	105
Subclass 417 – Working Holiday Visa	650
Subclass 445 – Dependent Child Visa	3140	1570	790
Subclass 462 – Work and Holiday Visa	650
Subclass 482 – Standard Business Sponsorship	420
Subclass 482 – Nomination	330
Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa – Short Term	1495	1495	375
Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa – Medium Term	3115	3115	780
Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa – Labour Agreement	3115	3115	780
Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa	1945	975	490
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa	4770	2385	1190	4890
Subclass 494 – Standard Business Sponsorship	420
Subclass 494 – Nomination	0
Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa	4770	2385	1190	4890
Subclass 500 – Student Visa	1600	1190	390
Subclass 500 – Student (Subsequent Entrant) Visa	1600	1190	390
Subclass 590 – Student Guardian Visa	1600
Subclass 600 – Visitor Visa (Business Visitor)	195
Subclass 600 – Visitor Visa (Approved Destination Status)	195
Subclass 600 – Visitor Visa (Sponsored Family)	195
Subclass 600 – Visitor Visa (Frequent Traveller)	1435
Subclass 600 – Visitor Visa – Tourist (apply in Australia)	490
Subclass 600 – Visitor Visa – Tourist (apply outside Australia)	195
Subclass 601 – Electronic Travel Authority	20
Subclass 602 – Medical Treatment Visa (inside Australia)	370	185	95
Subclass 651 – eVisitor Visa	0
Subclass 785 – Temporary Protection Visa	45
Subclass 790 – Safe Haven Enterprise Visa	45
Subclass 802 – Child Visa	3140	1570	790
Subclass 804 – Aged Parent Visa	5125	2565	1285	2065
Subclass 808 – Confirmatory (Residence)	365
Subclass 820/801 – Onshore Partner Visa	9095	4550	2280
Subclass 820/801 – Onshore Partner Visa (Conversion from Subclass 300)	1920	960	485
Subclass 835 – Remaining Relative Visa	5125	2565	1285	2065
Subclass 836 – Carer Visa	2155	1060	530	2065
Subclass 837 – Orphan Relative Visa	1920	960	485
Subclass 838 – Aged Dependent Relative Visa	5125	2565	1285	2065
Subclass 851 – Resolution of Status	0
Subclass 858 – Global Talent Visa	4840	2425	1210	4890
Subclass 864 – Contributory Aged Parent Visa	4895	2445	1225	43600
Subclass 864 – Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Conversion from Subclass 884)	430	220	105	19420
Subclass 866 – Protection Visa	45
Subclass 870 – Family Sponsorship	420
Subclass 870 – Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (3 years / 5 years)	5895 / 11785
Subclass 884 – Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa	4895	2445	1225	29130
Subclass 888 – Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa	3400	1705	850	4890

The post Australian Visa Application Fee from July 2024 first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

Australian Visa Changes from 1 July 2024

M & Z Consultancy — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 06:00:16 +0000

Australian Visa Changes from 1 July 2024

Several significant changes to Australian visas have come into effect from 1 July 2024. Here are the key changes you should be aware of:

1. Student Visa

From 1 July 2024 onwards, the following visa holders are prohibited from applying for the Student Visa through the onshore pathway:

Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485)
Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601)
Medical Treatment (Subclass 602)
eVisitor (Subclass 651)
Maritime Crew (Subclass 988)
Visitor (Subclass 600)

2. Employer-Sponsored Visa

TSMIT Increase: Starting from 1 July 2024, the TSMIT increases from $70,000 to $73,150. This means that all new nomination applications for the mentioned visa categories must ensure nominees receive an annual salary of at least $73,150 or the annual market salary rate for their occupation, whichever is greater.
Changes to Visa Conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608: From 1 July 2024, Temporary Work (Skilled) (Subclass 457) visa holders, Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visa holders, and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 494) visa holders who stop working with their sponsoring employer will have more time to find a new sponsor, apply for a different visa, or arrange to depart Australia. These visa holders will have up to:

- 180 days at a time, or
- A maximum of 365 days in total across the entire visa grant period.

Note: The changes apply to existing visa holders, as well as those granted a visa on or after 1 July 2024. Any periods a visa holder stopped working for their sponsor before 1 July 2024 will not count towards the new time periods outlined above.

3. Temporary Graduate Visa

The maximum age for applicants has been reduced from 50 to 35 years, except for Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders and Masters (research) or PhD graduates, who can apply until age 50.
The Graduate Work stream has been renamed to Post Vocational Education Work stream.
The Post Study Work stream has been renamed to Post Higher Education Work stream.

4. Working Holiday Maker Program

UK passport holders will be able to be granted up to three Working Holiday (Subclass 417) visas without having to meet any specified work requirements from 1 July 2024.
Republic of Philippines passport holders are eligible to apply for a Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa.

5. Visa Application Charge Changes

The visa application charge for all types of visas has increased from 1 July 2024.

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2024-2025 Migration Program planning levels

M & Z Consultancy — Wed, 15 May 2024 02:42:22 +0000

2024-2025 Migration Program planning levels

On 14 May 2024, the Australian Government announced that the planning levels for the 2024–25 permanent Migration Program (Migration Program) will be set at 185,000 places.

The permanent Migration Program will help fill skills shortages in priority sectors and prioritise visa processing for regional Australia while the Australian Government builds the domestic pipeline of highly skilled workers.

The 2024–25 Migration Program also recognises the strong contribution all migrants make to social cohesion. It focuses on strengthening family and community bonds in Australia.

A well-targeted, skills focussed Migration Program supplements the cohort of working-age people. It helps boost participation rates and the size of the labour force.

The 2024–25 permanent Migration Program has the following composition:

Skill stream (132,200 places, approximately 71 per cent of the program) – This stream has been designed to improve the productive capacity of the economy and fill skill shortages in the labour market, particularly those in regional Australia.
Family stream (52,500 places, approximately 28 per cent of the program) – This stream is predominantly made up of Partner visas, enabling Australians to reunite with family members from overseas and provide them with pathways to citizenship. Of this stream:
- 40,500 Partner visas are estimated for 2024–25 for planning purposes, noting this category is demand-driven.
- 3,000 Child visas are estimated for 2024–25 for planning purposes, noting this category is demand-driven.
Special Eligibility stream (300 places) – This stream covers visas for those in special circumstances, including permanent residents returning to Australia after a period overseas.

Migration Program planning levels, as announced as part of the 2023–24 and 2024–25 Federal Budgets, are as follows:

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	Partner	40,500	40,500
	Parent	8,500	8,500
	Child	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

The post 2024-2025 Migration Program planning levels first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

The Costs of Sponsoring Foreign Employees for Employer-Sponsored Visas

M & Z Consultancy — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 23:53:24 +0000

The Costs of Sponsoring Foreign Employees for Employer-Sponsored Visas

Australia attracts skilled professionals from around the world, and businesses often seek to sponsor foreign workers for Australian Employer-Sponsored Visas to fill job vacancies. While these visas offer opportunities, it is crucial to grasp the costs involved. In this article, we will break down the expenses associated with sponsoring foreign workers for Australian visas, helping you understand the costs involved in the applications.

Visa Types

Currently, three main employer-sponsored visa types are available: Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa, Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa, and Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa.

Application Steps

For the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa and Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa, three steps are involved:

1. Sponsorship
2. Nomination
3. Visa Application

For the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa, two steps are involved:

1. Nomination
2. Visa Application

Sponsorship and Nomination Cost

Becoming an approved sponsor under the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa and Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa program: AU$420
Nominating a visa applicant for the Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa: AU$330
Nominating a visa applicant for the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa: AU$540. If the business is located in a regional area, the nomination fee will be NIL for eligible streams.
Paying the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy: The amount depends on the business turnover, visa type and the proposed period of stay of the employee.

Skilling Australians Fund levy

Employers must pay the applicable nomination training contribution charge referred to as the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) levy. The purpose of the SAF levy is for employers to contribute to the broader skills development of Australians.

The levy funds are managed by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR)

The Department of Home Affairs calculates the required SAF levy amount which is payable in full at the time of lodging a nomination application using information provided in the online nomination application. The online form will calculate the amount you must pay, which depends on the:

size of the sponsoring business and
proposed period of stay of the overseas worker in Australia.

Business size	Subclass 482 visa	Subclass 186 and 494 visas
Small (annual turnover less than $10 million)	AU$1,200 per year or part thereof	AU$3,000 one-off
Other business (annual turnover of $10 million or more)	AU$1,800 per year or part thereof	AU$5,000 one-off

Example: a business with an annual turnover of more than AUD15 million per year that wishes to nominate an employee to apply for a subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa for a period of 4 years, the business would be liable to pay a levy of AU$7,200 (4 years x AU$1,800).

Visa Application Fee

Subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa	Base Application Charge	Additional Applicant Charge Under 18	Additional Applicant Charge Under 18
Short-term stream	AU$1,455	AU$1,455	AU$365
Medium-Term Stream	AU$3,035	AU$3,035	AU$760
Labour Agreement Stream	AU$3,035	AU$3,035	AU$760
Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa	Base Application Charge	Additional Applicant Charge Under 18	Additional Applicant Charge Under 18
Direct Entry Stream	AU$4,640	AU$2,320	AU$1,160
TRT Stream	AU$4,640	AU$2,320	AU$1,160
Labour Agreement Stream	AU$4,640	AU$2,320	AU$1,160
Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa	Base Application Charge	Additional Applicant Charge Under 18	Additional Applicant Charge Under 18
Employer-Sponsored Stream	AU$4,640	AU$2,320	AU$2,320
Labour Agreement Stream	AU$4,640	AU$2,320	AU$2,320

Other Costs

In addition to the application fees mentioned above, there will be other incurred costs, such as professional fees for migration agents/lawyers and expenses for labour market testing, which may vary among different companies.

The post The Costs of Sponsoring Foreign Employees for Employer-Sponsored Visas first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

How to Apply for an Australian National Police Certificate for Visa Applications？

M & Z Consultancy — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 04:13:25 +0000

How to Apply for an Australian National Police Certificate for Visa Applications?

When applying for an Australian visa, you may be required to submit an Australian Police Certificate to support your application. This certificate provides information about your criminal history in Australia and is often a mandatory requirement for immigration and visa applications. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of obtaining an Australian National Police Certificate to assist you with your visa application.

Note:

You must include details of all names you have been known by.
The Department of Home Affairs does not accept state- or territory-issued Australian police certificates.
Fingerprints are not needed for Australian police checks.

Step 1: Visit the Australian Federal Police website to start the online application form: https://afpnationalpolicechecks.converga.com.au/

Step 2: Select the identification documents that you will submit to the AFP for the Australian National Police Check application. Keep in mind that you must provide a minimum of 100 points of identification.

Step 3: Provide your full name, date of birth, and email address. For the purpose of the check, select “Commonwealth Employment / Purpose” and then choose “33 – Immigration/Citizenship to supply it to the Department of Home Affairs”. Check the “Request for Hard Copy Certificate” box if you require a physical copy.

Step 4: Verify your details and provide consent for the Australian Federal Police to conduct a National Police Check on your behalf.

Step 5: Upload your identity documents.

Step 6: Provide your additional personal information.

Step 7: Provide your current residential address, mailing address and previous residential address. Please note that you need to provide all of your residential addresses in the past 10 years.

Step 8: Confirm your details.

Step 9: Enter your payment information to make payment.

The post How to Apply for an Australian National Police Certificate for Visa Applications？ first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.

Your Guide to Australia’s Employer-Sponsored Visas: Which One is Right for You?

M & Z Consultancy — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 22:45:12 +0000

Your Guide to Australia’s Employer-Sponsored Visas: Which One is Right for You?

Australia offers a range of employer-sponsored visas for individuals seeking to work and live in the country. The three main visa options are Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa), Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme Visa), and Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa). In this blog post, we will provide you with detailed information about these visa types and application processes, to help you make an informed decision on which visa is the best fit for your needs.

Visa Type

Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa)

The Subclass 482 visa, also known as the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, is an employer-sponsored visa that allows skilled workers to work in Australia for up to four years. The visa is designed to fill temporary skill shortages in the Australian labour market and is divided into three streams:

Short-Term Stream: This stream is for applicants who have been nominated by their employer for a skilled position that is on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and allows them to work in Australia for up to two years (or up to 4 years if an International Trade Obligation (ITO) applies).
Medium-Term Stream: This stream is for applicants who have been nominated by their employer for a skilled position that is on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and allows them to work in Australia for up to four years. Applicants may also be eligible for a Permanent Residence Visa if they have worked for the sponsor for three years and satisfy the visa requirements.
Labour Agreement Stream: This stream is for applicants who have been nominated by their employer under a labour agreement negotiated between the employer and the Australian government.

Applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including English language proficiency, work experience and health and character requirements. The Subclass 482 visa also requires the employer to demonstrate that they have attempted to find Australian workers to fill the position before sponsoring a foreign worker. The visa can provide a pathway to permanent residency in Australia under certain conditions.

Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme Visa)

The Subclass 186 visa is a permanent employer-sponsored visa that allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently. Also known as the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, this visa requires the applicant to be sponsored by an Australian employer who has been approved as a sponsor by the Department of Home Affairs. There are three streams under the Subclass 186 visa:

Direct Entry Stream: This stream is intended for individuals who have the skills and experience necessary to fill a position that cannot be filled by an Australian worker. It allows applicants to obtain permanent residency in Australia if they are nominated by an employer and meet the relevant visa criteria.
Temporary Residence Transition Stream: This stream is for applicants who have been working for their employer on a temporary basis for at least three years and who have been nominated by their employer for a permanent position.
Labour Agreement Stream: This stream is for applicants who have been nominated by their employer under a labour agreement negotiated between the employer and the Australian government.

To be eligible for the Subclass 186 visa, applicants are required to meet specific criteria such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, as well as health and character requirements.

Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa)

The Subclass 494 visa, also known as the Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa, is a temporary employer-sponsored visa that allows skilled workers to work and live in Australia for up to five years. This visa is designed to address skill shortages in regional areas of Australia and is only available to applicants who are sponsored by an employer in a regional area. The Subclass 494 visa is divided into two streams:

Employer-Sponsored Stream: This stream is for applicants who have been sponsored by an employer in a regional area of Australia for a skilled position that is on the Regional Occupation List (ROL) and allows them to work and live in Australia for up to five years.
Labour Agreement Stream: This stream is for applicants who have been sponsored by an employer under a labour agreement negotiated between the employer and the Australian government.

Applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including age, English language proficiency, work experience and health and character requirements. The visa also requires the employer to demonstrate that they have attempted to find Australian workers to fill the position before sponsoring a foreign worker. Additionally, visa holders must work for their sponsoring employer in a regional area of Australia for at least three years before they can apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.

Application Process

Here are the steps to apply for an employer sponsor visa:

Finding a Sponsor: Your first step is to find an Australian employer who is willing to sponsor you and who meets the sponsorship requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
Standard Sponsorship Application: The employer must apply to become an approved sponsor by submitting an application to the Department of Home Affairs. This involves providing information about the company’s business activities, financial standing, and any previous involvement with sponsoring workers. (For subclass 482 and 494 visas)
Nomination by Employer: Your Australian employer must nominate you for the position you are applying for. This requires your employer to provide evidence of your skills, qualifications, and work experience, as well as demonstrate that you meet the relevant requirements for the visa.
Visa Application: To apply for the employer sponsor visa, you must complete an online visa application form available on the Department of Home Affairs website. Along with the visa application form, you will need to provide several documents, such as your passport, proof of English proficiency, as well as character certificates.
Waiting for Visa Outcome: Once your visa application has been lodged, you will need to wait for the visa outcome for a certain amount of time. The processing time for the employer sponsor visa can vary depending on your individual circumstances. You can check the current processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Conclusion

To sum up, Australia provides various visas for skilled workers who desire to reside and work in the country with employer sponsorship. The Subclass 482, 186, and 494 visas are the three main options available, each with its own requirements and eligibility criteria. These visas can provide a pathway to permanent residency in Australia for those who meet certain conditions. It is important to carefully consider your options and choose the visa that best fits your needs and circumstances.

The post Your Guide to Australia’s Employer-Sponsored Visas: Which One is Right for You? first appeared on M&Z Consultancy.