Immigration - Expat Network

Government Focus On Parent Visa Grants To Continue In 2023/24

Australia allocated almost double the amount of placements to Parent Visas in 2022/23 (8,500 placements) compared to the previous year (4,500 placements), and another 8,500 places have again been allocated in 2023/24. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff 15 June, 2023 But although the Government is continuing to focus on granting Parent Visas, unfortunately applicants are still…

Aged Care Labour Agreement Australia | Greater Flexibility To Sponsor Visa Holders

The Australian Government has made an industry-specific Aged Care Labour Agreement immediately available to aged care providers across Australia. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff 15 June, 2023 Recognising that the aged care sector is an essential industry experiencing persistent skills shortages, it allows aged care providers to sponsor overseas workers with greater flexibility for these direct…

Portugal’s Golden Visa: The Door Remains Open (Sort Of)

The Portuguese government announced – rather unexpectedly – that its Golden Visa (GV) programme was to be completely closed with immediate effect on 17 February. ‘Immediate’ in Portugal doesn’t typically mean the same as in other countries. Indeed, a further announcement was made shortly after, which stated that applications for GVs would continue to be…

A Quick Guide To Portugal’s ‘D’ Visas

Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for expats over the past few years, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s a beautiful country with property tending to be available at a price cheaper than the average of the UK or US equivalents. The cost of living is also cheaper than the majority of…

What The Federal Budget Means For Migration To Australia

The government’s first Federal Budget since it was elected in 2022 has revealed the size and composition of the migration program will continue to focus on skilled migration in 2023-2024. Here’s a summary of the main Budget announcements under the Department of Home Affairs portfolio and what they mean for migrants and employers of visa holders. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff …

TSMIT Increase – Minimum Salary For Visa Holders And PR Pathways | Employer-Sponsored Visa Changes

Following Home Affairs Minister, Clare O’Neil’s announcements on changes to the skilled migration program a few weeks ago, here’s how some of the changes will be implemented. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff 21 March, 2023 Read on to understand what this means for employers and skilled visa holders/applicants. Consider Minimum Salary (TSMIT) Impacts for Employees Businesses will need to assess if…

Changes To Work Rights For Student And Graduate Visa Holders And Working Holiday Makers From 1 July 2023

To help the economy address skills shortages, the Australian Government will make changes to several visa restrictions from 1 July 2023 for Student and Graduate Visa Holders, as well as Working Holiday Makers working in Australia. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff 21 March, 2023 The changes will also impact businesses that employ these visa holders…

New Permanent Residence Pathway For 482 TSS Visa Holders With A Regional Occupation

Employer-sponsored Subclass 482 TSS Visa holders with an occupation on the Regional Occupation List may have a more direct pathway to Permanent Residence (PR) following Government changes that are currently in effect. Here’s what employers and skilled migrants should know. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff 21 March, 2023 What has changed for Subclass 482 TSS Visa Holders? Subclass 482…

How Australia’s Migration Settings Should Change | The Productivity Commission’s Recommendations

How should the government change skilled migration settings? According to The Productivity Commission, immigration can play a significant role in maximising Australia’s productivity indicators, such as higher wages and economic growth. It can do so by attracting in-demand skills and knowledge, allocating labour to where it is most needed and by sharing best practice from…

Major Skilled Visa Changes Announced

After much anticipation, Home Affairs Minister, Clare O’Neil has today announced several major skilled visa changes based on a comprehensive Review of the Migration System. Most of the changes will make it easier for highly paid skilled professionals to enter and start working in Australia. Written by Sheila Woods (MARN: 0533879) of Interstaff 2 May, 2023 The announcements included: Here’s a summary…