As we close out the first quarter of 2024, the landscape of Australian migration continues to change and our newsletter is where you can keep track of all the changes. Here’s a glance at the most noteworthy developments affecting visas and migration this year so far:
Changes to Student Visa Requirements – From GTE to GS
The established Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for student visas (subclass 500) has transitioned to a Genuine Student (GS) requirement. This development began this week on 23 March 2024, and it introduces a suite of targeted questions designed to ascertain the genuine intention of students wishing to pursue education in Australia. The new framework aims to assess applicants more holistically, considering their familial, community ties, and educational aspirations, ensuring a robust and genuine international student cohort.
Raising the bar for English Language Criteria for Student Visas
Effective from 23 March 2024, these adjustments are part of a broader initiative to support international students’ success in Australia’s educational environment and their integration into the skilled workforce thereafter. The changes include increased IELTS score requirements and a narrowed test validity window, setting a higher standard for language proficiency among visa applicants.
Changes to the 485 Graduate Visa
In line with enhancing language proficiency among graduates, requirements for Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa applicants have been updated. Now, the English language test scores needed for eligibility have been increased from 6 overall to 6.5 overall with minimum scores of 5.5 across all test components. Additionally, these scores must be obtained within a year before submitting the visa application. Lastly, the 2-year extension for post-study work rights stream, for certain international graduates will be phased out from mid-2024, signalling a pivotal change for future workforce integration.
Closure of the COVID-19 408 Visa
Reflecting on the pandemic’s evolving context, the Australian Government has concluded the COVID-19 Pandemic event for Temporary Activity (subclass 408) visa as of February 2024. This decision underscores the shift towards stabilization and the adaptation of migration policies to the post-pandemic landscape. For those affected by this closure, exploring alternative visa options becomes crucial, and our team is poised to offer strategic guidance.
Changes to the Australian Computer Society (ACS) Skills Assessment
The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has announced the introduction of a new Migration Skills Assessment portal, set to launch in March, and which has just been postponed to April. This innovative platform promises expedited processing times, the flexibility of getting assessed under multiple ANZCO codes, and enhanced application tracking.
Sponsorship Visas on the rise
Australia’s economic sectors continue to signal strong demand for skilled professionals, with industries such as IT, Hospitality, Marketing and Construction leading the call for talent. With our expertise and support, you can navigate the sponsorship process and embark on a journey toward achieving your Australian career aspirations. Get in touch with us to discuss your options!
Looking Ahead: Embracing Change and Seizing Opportunities
As we move forward into 2024, we are committed to keeping you informed and empowered. For more details on these updates and how they may affect your plans get in touch with us for guidance and advice in relation to how they affect you. Your dream of an Australian future is important, and with the right guidance, it’s within reach.
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Thank you for staying connected with Bravo Migration. Here’s to a year of opportunities, changes, and new beginnings!
