The new year brings changes to an ever-shifting Australian immigration system.
PARTNER VISAS TO HAVE LONGER PROCESSING TIMES
The Family Violence Bill has been passed in the Australian Senate in November 2018. The sponsorships for Partner Visas now must be approved prior to the filing of applications. It implies that potential overseas applicants will have to undergo the tough process for assessing their history and character. This will enhance the processing times for these visas, as quoted by the SBS.
A NEW PROVISIONAL SPONSORED PARENT VISA TO BE INTRODUCED
Australian nationals and PR holders will be in a position to bring over their parents to Australia from overseas. Just 15,000 visas will be offered annually. The Parent Visas will have a validity of 3 or 5 years upon approval. The costs will be 5,000 $ and 10,000 $ correspondingly. The Visas can be renewed but for maximum 10 years only when combined.
SHOW MONEY FOR OVERSEAS STUDENTS TO BE INCREASED TO $20,290
Overseas students will have to offer proof of funds for roughly $20,290. Extra $ 7,100 will be needed for bringing in a partner. Extra $ 3, 040 will be needed for the individual child.
SALARIES OF EMPLOYER-SPONSORED IMMIGRANTS WILL BE MATCHED TO ATO TAX RECORDS
The Department of Home Affairs will crackdown on firms that underpay employer-sponsored immigrants. It will collate tax file numbers of immigrants who possess a 457 or TSS 482 Visa for matching with the latest tax records. This is to ensure that the immigrants are paid the correct amount based on the salary that is nominated.
START-UP ENTREPRENEURS WILL BE OFFERED SOUTH AUSTRALIA VISA
South Australia Visa will be offered to Start-up entrepreneurs. This will not be as tough to be obtained like the Business and Innovation Visa. It will also not need arranging funds worth $200,000. The IELTS band score required will also be an average 5 band. The applicants will have to offer a business plan and an original idea to South Australia for obtaining this visa.
For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.