Key Transformations in Australian Immigration & Education for 2024
Australia’s immigration and education landscape is undergoing significant changes in 2024. These reforms, aimed at enhancing visa processes, fortifying pathways for international students, and adjusting migration quotas, are pivotal for prospective students and skilled professionals eyeing opportunities Down Under. Here’s an insightful glimpse into the major updates:
1. Student VISA (Subclass 500): A Shift in Requirements
The existing Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) prerequisite for student visas will transition into the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. This alteration seeks robust evidence to validate applications and ensure they genuinely reflect aspiring students. Moreover, from early 2024, the English language criteria for student visas will be revised to foster improved learning and career prospects:
- The IELTS (or equivalent) score required for a Student 500 visa will increase from 5.5 to 6.0.
- ELICOS and university foundation/pathway program requirements will also see raised scores for eligibility.
2. Streamlined Temporary Graduate VISA (Subclass 485):
Temporary Graduate visa tenure will undergo modifications, offering shortened durations:
- Bachelor degree or Masters by coursework: 2 years
- Masters by research or PhD: 3 years
- Eligibility for a second visa of 1-2 years for students in regional areas.
- Those engaged in skilled jobs during the post-study period can pursue the Skills in Demand visa, facilitating a clearer pathway to permanent residency.
- Age limit for Temporary Graduate visa applicants lowered to under 35.
3. Closure of the Covid VISA (Subclass 408):
Temporary Graduate visa tenure will undergo modifications, offering shortened durations:
- Bachelor degree or Masters by coursework: 2 years
- Masters by research or PhD: 3 years
- Eligibility for a second visa of 1-2 years for students in regional areas.
- Those engaged in skilled jobs during the post-study period can pursue the Skills in Demand visa, facilitating a clearer pathway to permanent residency.
- Age limit for Temporary Graduate visa applicants lowered to under 35.
4. Migration Figures and Skilled Visa Revamp
The Australian government plans to broaden migration planning, anticipating a decline in net overseas migration numbers. This reduction is anticipated from 510,000 in 2022-23 to 375,000 in 2023-24, eventually stabilizing at 250,000 in 2024-25. A notable surge in international student numbers was observed, marking 270,000 in 2022-23 post the pandemic. Moreover, the update from “Temporary Skill Shortage VISA” to “Skills in Demand Visa” introduces three distinct streams:
Tier 1 – Specialist Skills Pathway:
- No specific occupation list is applicable, except for exclusions such as trades workers, machine operators, drivers, and laborers.
- Requires guaranteed annual earnings of at least $135,000, indexed annually.
- Offers priority processing with a commitment to a 7-day median visa processing time.
Tier 2 – Core Skills Pathway
- Features a simplified and regularly updated Core Skills Occupation list managed by Jobs and Skills Australia.
- Requires guaranteed annual earnings of at least $70,000, indexed annually.
Tier 3 – Essential Skills Pathway
- Targets occupations earning under $70,000 per year but engaged in essential skill occupations.
- Further assessment by the government is in progress to introduce this pathway, likely to be sector-specific with a robust regulatory framework, minimum standards, and ongoing advice from Jobs and Skills Australia.
5. New Visa for Pacific Migrants
A novel Pacific Engagement visa offering 3,000 spots for Pacific region and Timor Leste immigrants. Applicants chosen through ballots can seek permanent residency in Australia.
These updates aim to refine pathways, align visa criteria, and offer better prospects for aspiring migrants and students alike, ushering in a new era of Australian immigration and education. Stay informed for a seamless transition into Australia’s diverse and rewarding opportunities.
