Immigration - Expat Network

Immigration And Australian Federal Election Campaign Promises

We are now on the cusp of the Federal Election, which is fast approaching this weekend. The outcome is expected to shape the direction of the migration program, but we remain cautious about whether the initiatives will be fully implemented. Here’s a summary of the major parties’ campaign promises to get an understanding of the potential…

Skilled Visa Salary Thresholds to Increase to 4.6% From 1 July 2025

From 1 July 2025, a 4.6% increase in Skilled Visa Salary Thresholds will apply, requiring employers to offer higher salaries to employees they nominate for Subclass 482, 494 and 186 Visas from this date. The change reflects the Government’s commitment to annually adjust salary thresholds on 1 July in line with increases to the Average Weekly Ordinary…

Visa Rules When Changing Employer Sponsors

Do you know which visa rules apply when Subclass 482 Visa holders change employer sponsors? For example – did you know that Subclass 482 Visa holders who have left their previous employer may be able to work for a new employer for 180 days without sponsorship? Australia’s current mobility arrangements enable businesses to more easily recruit Subclass…

The Easiest Countries To Relocate To On A Working Visa In 2025

Financial experts at Remitly, who provide cross-border payments, analysed data from around 30 destinations globally to reveal the most accessible working visa routes for skilled workers this year. Rank Country Visa Name Ave. process time (month) Application fee # of applications granted Min. salary required Max. length of stay (years) Ave. annual wage (2023) Ease…

Setting Up Your Business In The UK: A Guide To Self-Sponsorship

Self-sponsorship provides a viable option for individuals seeking to establish a business in the UK without requiring a job offer from an existing employer. This route is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, consultants, and business owners who seek greater flexibility and control over their professional future. However, this is a complex procedure that demands thorough planning…

Immigration | A Key Issue For The Federal Election 2025

We are now only a few weeks away from the Australian Federal Election on 3 May 2025 and are currently seeing both major political parties campaigning to reduce immigration levels. The Coalition is cracking down on both the permanent and temporary migration programs, promising to reduce the annual intake of permanent migrants from 185,000 to 140,000 people and…

2025 Federal Budget And Australian Immigration

While the Australian Federal Budget usually provides insights on the size and composition of the permanent migration program for the coming financial year, these planning levels were not released in this week’s Budget announcements. In response to the Federal Budget’s lack of permanent migration figures, the professional body for Migration Agents in Australia known as the Migration Institute of Australia…

Partner Visa Subclass 309: A Guide To Offshore Applications

Dealing with the immigration space can feel dizzying, especially when the goal is to bring a loved one to Australia from another country. Those hoping to have their partner join them should know the ins and outs of the Partner Visa Subclass 309. Couples can live and work together in peace with this visa. In…

Why Portugal Is The Top Choice For Expats And Investors: TISRI And Golden Visa Explained

Portugal has rapidly emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for expats, investors, and high-net-worth individuals seeking favorable tax treatment and European Union (EU) residency. With stunning landscapes, a high quality of life, and forward-thinking fiscal policies, Portugal combines lifestyle and strategy like few other nations. Whether you’re considering relocation to Portugal or simply…

How Caveats Apply | Skilled Occupation Lists For Migration To Australia

On 14 December 2024, the Australian Government amended legislation to provide clarity on how caveats apply to eligible occupations for the Core Skills Stream of the Skills in Demand 482 Visa. This included the removal of Caveat 14 from 10 occupations (such as Chef and Corporate General Manager), which ensures that the use of these occupations is not…