Updated pathways to Permanent Residency for employer sponsored visa holders on the short-term skilled occupation list
In exciting news for employer sponsored visa holders who have occupations that sit on the short-term skilled occupation list (STSOL) may now have access to a permanent visa where they may not have done so before.
The Department of Home Affairs have finally released long-awaited changes that provide a pathway to permanent residency for many visa holders who may have been previously ineligible due to their occupation.
What were the previous permanent residency eligibility requirements for employer sponsored visa holders?
Prior to their introduction, to be eligible for permanent residency a Subclass 482 visa holder (Temporary Skill Shortage) needed to be working on a Subclass 482 visa within an occupation that sat on the medium to long-term occupation list.
These changes are sure to be life-changing for the visa holders who were previously uncertain whether they had a pathway to permanent residency in Australia.
What are the new eligibility requirements for visa holders on the short-term skilled occupation list (STSOL)?
Subclass 482 visa holders who meet all the below three eligibility requirements may now be able to apply for a permanent residency visa:
- Existing Subclass 482 visa holders with an occupation on the STSOL, and
- Were in Australia for at least 12 months between 1 February 2020 and 21 December 2021, and
- Are employed by a suitable employer
These changes will also apply to visa holders who:
- On 18 April 2017, held or had applied for a Subclass 457 visa that was subsequently granted where their occupation was on the STSOL.
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alex Hawke confirmed that these changes were about recognising “the contribution of skilled migrants who remained here during the COVID-19 pandemic and to encourage them to stay in Australia.”
When do these changes take effect?
These exciting changes were initially announced as part of the Australian government’s reopening of Australia and the economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.
These changes will take effect from July 2022 and will apply to those who meet the above eligibility criteria.
Can eligible visa holders start the application process now ahead of these changes coming into effect?
Yes. Despite these changes not coming into effect until July 2022, it will be important to start the application process as soon as possible, especially when it comes to assessing whether you are eligible to take advantage of the new changes.
Next Steps
Get started now. The team at Timpson Immigration Lawyers are senior immigration lawyers at the top of their field with years of experience in successfully handling employer sponsored visa applications.
No case is too complex for our team. Speak to us today to find out how we can assist you in realising your Australian permanent residency goals.
You can send us an email at enquiries@timpsonimmigration.com.au or give us a call on 1300 193 326
