Australia Migration Services is happy to reveal the latest migration update for this month to all our readers. The following information was revealed to us by the Australian Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
The DHA’s latest statistics indicate that overseas migration will be -71,200 less than the 154,000 persons in 2019-20, but is expected to gradually increase to around 201,000 in 2023-24. In other words, migrants in Australia can expect to have their visas processed quicker than usual due to a lower number of visa applicants.
Migration Program Levels
The 2020-21 program year will consist of 160,000 places, however, the distribution of places will change with an increase from 47,732 to 77,300 for Family stream places for this program year only.
Employer Sponsored, Global Talent, Business Innovation and Investment Program visas will be prioritised within the Skilled Stream. As for onshore visa applicants and Partner visa applicants, if a relevant sponsor resides in a designated regional area, their application will be prioritised for the 2020-21 Migration Program.
Refunds and waivers
The following visa holders may be entitled to a VAC refund:
- Prospective marriage visa (PMV) visa holders
- Pacific Labour Scheme and Seasonal Worker Programme visa holders
- Temporary skilled workers and visitor visa holders
- Working holiday makers visa holders
To find out if you are entitled to a refund, we strongly advice you to speak to one of our MARA registered migration consultants.
Family stream program and visas
Mandatory family sponsorship provisions for Partner visas will be implemented, requiring character checks and sharing of personal information with the applicant, and enforceable sponsorship obligations. 72,300 of the 77,300 places in the family stream will be allocated to partner applicants.
English language requirements will be introduced for Partner visa applicants and the sponsor, to enhance social cohesion and economic participation outcomes.
Recap on Victoria’s interim skilled and business migration program
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed it will continue using the interim allocation places beyond 5th of October.
If you have been selected to apply for a skilled visa, you can continue to submit your State Skilled Nominated Visa application even after the 5th of October.
Victoria’s interim allocation for 2020-21 were:
– 600 places for skilled subclass 190
– 200 places for skilled subclass 491
– 400 places for the business innovation and investment program
More than 2400 registrations of interest were received from skilled migrants and more than 480 application from business migrants.
