Australia’s skilled migration policies are evolving, making the dream of living and working in Australia even more accessible. Whether you are a skilled worker, a recent graduate, or someone looking to start a new life Down Under, the recent changes to the visa pathways are set to benefit a wide range of applicants. Below, we highlight the most important updates for 2024-25, including changes to the SC 482, SC 491, and NSW Skilled Migration programs.
1. SC 482 Visa Work Experience Update
In a significant change for SC 482 visa applicants, the work experience policy has been relaxed:
- No more 5-year work experience limit.
- Casual jobs now count towards the work experience requirement.
- Applicants only need 1 year of work experience within the past 10 years.
This update means that more applicants are eligible, providing a great opportunity for those who previously didn’t meet the work experience criteria.
2. NSW Skilled Migration Program 2024-25
The NSW Government has announced key updates to its Skilled Migration Program for 2024-25, set to open in October. The program includes two pathways:
- SC 190 (Permanent Skilled Visa)
- SC 491 (Regional Skilled Visa)
What’s new? The occupations are now ranked and prioritised at the Unit Group level, giving applicants more flexibility in securing their nominations. Regular invitation rounds will occur every 2-3 weeks, allowing faster processing and more opportunities for candidates to be invited.
3. SC 491 Visa Changes: Pathway 1 Updates
Changes to the SC 491 visa (Pathway 1) have been introduced to make it more accessible for workers:
- Applicants now only need to meet 90% of the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) at the time of application.
- Up to 10% of non-monetary benefits can be included in the income calculation.
- The previous “live-in” requirement for regional NSW has been removed, allowing greater flexibility for those who work in regional NSW but don’t live there.
These changes open doors for more candidates, giving them the chance to work and live in regional NSW without restrictive location requirements.
4. New Opportunities for Graduates in Regional NSW
If you’re a recent graduate from an eligible occupation, now is the perfect time to apply for an SC 491 visa nomination. Graduates from regional NSW have a direct pathway to permanent residency through this visa, providing a clear path to establishing a future in Australia. Eligible occupations are listed in the NSW Skills List for 2024-25, so it’s worth checking to see if your field of study qualifies.
Work and Holiday Visa (SC 462) Updates
Australia has also introduced updates for the Work and Holiday (SC 462) visa pre-application process. Starting 16 September 2024, applicants from high-demand countries such as China, Vietnam, and India will be selected through a random ballot. A registration fee of $25 applies, and payment is required at the time of registration.
Important Reminder: BPAY Payment System Update
For those planning to submit visa-related payments via BPAY, please be aware that BPAY payments will be temporarily unavailable from 6 to 14 September 2024. Make sure to plan ahead and complete any payments before or after these dates.
What Does This Mean for You?
These updates bring tremendous opportunities for skilled workers, graduates, and migrants who wish to move to Australia. With the new relaxed rules, more people can qualify for visas that lead to permanent residency, making the migration process simpler and more accessible.
If you’re interested in applying for one of these visas, now is the time to take action. Our team at FTS Education & Visa Services is here to help you navigate the changes, understand your eligibility, and ensure your application is processed smoothly.
For personalised assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today!
