AUSTRALIA – Changes to the Subclass 457 Program
October 23, 2014
Following the recommendations of an independent review panel, the Australian government has decided to make several changes to the subclass 457 visa program. Changes include the following:
- Streamlining the sponsorship, nomination, and visa applications by rewarding applicants deemed as ‘low-risk’ while also ensuring compliance through monitoring the activities of applicants considered ‘high-risk’;
- Lessening the sponsorship requirements so as to save businesses’ time and money;
- Easing the English language proficiency and occupational skills evidentiary requirements; and
- Increasing the sponsorship approval period for start-up businesses from only 12 months to 17 months.
At this time, there have been no changes to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold, however, this will be reviewed within the next two years.
For more information on these changes, click here to view the Australian government’s update.