Exciting changes to Australia’s skilled visa program: What you need to know
Exciting updates to Australia’s skilled visa program will make it easier for doctors to obtain permanent residency. Learn about the key changes and how Elective Recruitment can help with your move.
Great news for doctors looking to move to Australia!
The Australian government is implementing major changes to its employer-sponsored skilled visa program. The changes, which will commence on the 25th of November 2023 (subject to legislative approval), are designed to make it easier for skilled migrants to obtain permanent residency in Australia.
Key Changes to Employer-Sponsored Skilled Visas
Removing the limit on the number of short-term Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visas employees can apply for: Short-term TSS visa holders can currently apply for only one additional short-term TSS visa in Australia. From 25 November 2023, the Government plans to remove this limit.
Employees with TSS visas expiring before that date will need to travel outside Australia to lodge a third short-term-stream TSS application.
Expanding eligibility for the Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS): Eligibility for Permanent Residence under the ENS TRT stream will no longer be dependent on a skilled occupation list and particular visa stream.
• doctors holding TSS visas in all streams including the short-term and labour agreement streams will be eligible
• the occupation will not need to be on a skilled occupation list, all occupations listed in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANSZCO) will be eligible
The work experience requirement in Australia for the sponsoring employer on a TSS visa will be reduced from three to two years. This will allow doctors holding a TSS visa to apply for permanent residency after two years of work in Australia.
Reducing the age exemption for regional Medical Practitioners and high-income earners: Changes will be made to age limit waivers for regional medical practitioner applicants and high-income earning applicants aged 45 years and over to allow for a two-year pathway.
Changes to the Direct Entry stream for permanent residence and non-employer-sponsored permanent skilled visas are yet to be announced.
For more information click here
Navigating the Changes
As these changes come into effect, employers and skilled migrants must stay informed and seek guidance from experienced immigration professionals. Elective Recruitment is committed to providing expert advice through our migration partners to support doctors migrating to Australia, to ensure a smooth and successful transition under the new regulations.
If you are a doctor looking for job opportunities in Australia, to find out more about how Elective Recruitment can guide you through the job search, registration and relocation process reach out to us today here.
