As Australia’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic continues on, they are also looking to ramp up immigration as part of their economic recovery plan. Here is a round-up of some major immigration changes that have been announced recently.
Migration to Australia has dropped significantly since the beginning of COVID-19. This is caused by widespread travel bans and border closures, but it’s expected to rise again in 2022.
The Treasury’s mid-year economic update shows that while net overseas migration is expected to be around minus 41,000 people in 2021-22, it is projected to climb up 180,000 people in 2022-23 (almost double the previous estimate).
Australia’s yearly migration program runs from July 1 to June 30 each year. The 2024-25 forecast is set at 235,000 people, even though it still remains a lower number than the previous year.
Which visa holders can currently enter Australia?
Australia’s borders reopened to eligible international students and certain skilled visa holders on 15 December 2021 – almost six months earlier than forecast in the federal budget.
Australian citizens and permanent residents can also enter Australia, and their immediate family members can apply for an exemption to enter.
Permanent residency for skilled migrants in health and hospitality
In November 2021, the government announced significant visa changes to retain highly skilled migrants in critical sectors. Under the changes, certain migrants who have chosen to stay and work in Australia during the pandemic will be eligible for permanent residency. The changes may benefit existing Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa holders in the short-term stream, who were previously restricted to a two-year stay without such a pathway. There were about 20,000 visa holders who may benefit from the changes.
What does this mean for Employers?
With this opportunity, employers can now find a solution to their staff shortage.
Are you looking to hire an overseas candidate or have you found an overseas candidate that might be a good fit for you?
Individuals with compelling or compassionate reasons may apply for a waiver of the restrictions, but applications for exemptions will be considered on a per-case basis. Compelling or compassionate reasons can include essential work travel. Through our visa team’s help, AABD has been successful in submitting requests to sponsor candidates who enable businesses and people to continue their operations which are critical to the economy, and therefore recovery of Australia.
If you are looking to hire skilled healthcare workers or any other professional workers, we can assist you.
Our parent company, Australia Migration Services, is a migration firm that specializes in all visa-related matters. It has processed numerous employer-sponsored visas for candidates and employers to reach a common ground.
We advice you to speak to one of our MARA registered migration consultants who will provide you with a clear, step-by-step analogy of pathways to sponsor your ideal candidate.
If you have queries relating to the above, or need urgent assistance, please call us on 03 9092 1688 or email us at info@aabd.com.com.au.