The Australian Government previously announced that starting from 23 November 2024, the work experience requirement for the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (Subclass 482) would be reduced from two years to one year. However, this change has been delayed due to the absence of a formal legislative instrument.
Delay in 482 Visa Changes
- As part of the Federal Budget, the Government committed to lowering the work experience requirement for TSS visa applicants from two years to one year.
- For this change to take effect, amendments to regulations 482.221, 482.231, and 482.242 must be formalized through a legislative instrument, which has yet to be issued.
- The delay may be tied to the upcoming launch of the Skills in Demand (SID) visa, which already incorporates a one-year work experience requirement.
- While the Department of Home Affairs has indicated that the SID visa is expected to launch before the end of the year, no definitive commencement date has been provided.
- Applicants who anticipated this change should consider alternative visa options, wait for formal implementation, or explore the upcoming SID visa as a potential pathway.
Skilled Migration Updates from the Department of Home Affairs
On 13 November 2024, the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) met with the Department of Home Affairs to discuss key updates in skilled migration:
- Skills in Demand and National Innovation Visas: Official start dates have not been confirmed, but preparatory fact sheets and resources are in development.
- Global Talent Visas: Current applications and those with invitations will continue to be processed. However, Expressions of Interest (EOIs) without invitations may be redirected to the forthcoming National Innovation visa.
- Increased Application Demand: Visa lodgements have surged by 70% compared to the previous year, causing slower processing times. In response, the Department has increased recruitment and authorized overtime, resulting in a 28% rise in finalized cases this year.
- Non-Decision-Ready Applications: Applications lacking sufficient documentation are causing delays. The Department is developing outreach and training initiatives to assist businesses in submitting comprehensive, decision-ready applications.
What This Means for Employers and Applicants
Despite the announcement of reduced work experience requirements for the TSS visa, its implementation remains pending. As the SID visa nears introduction, employers and visa applicants are advised to:
- Stay updated on policy changes and timelines.
- Prepare alternative strategies for recruitment and migration.
- Consult with migration professionals for guidance on available visa pathways.
K1 Migration is here to provide expert advice and support to help you navigate these evolving immigration changes. Contact us today for tailored solutions to meet your migration needs.