Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents

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The South Australia (SA) Regional DAMA and the Adelaide City DAMA have been both extended and expanded.

The SA Regional DAMA now includes 128 new occupations from various sectors including construction, trades, agribusiness, ICT, health, education, and renewable energy.

We submitted suggestions to the Government of South Australia to include certain occupations on the DAMA list. We welcome the inclusion of occupations such as Registered Nurse in Child and Family Health, Registered Nurse in Disability and Rehabilitation, Winery Worker, Sheep Farm Worker, and others on the list.

The 'Winery Worker' occupation is a valuable addition, especially since South Australia has a strong wine industry.

Other important occupations added to the list include Truck Driver, Bricklayer, and Floor Finisher.

This is excellent news for those seeking permanent residency pathways!

Click here to view the 128 new occupations.

Annual nominations

The annual nominations for the SA Regional DAMA have increased from 750 to 2000, valid until June 30, 2025.

Concessions

South Australia continues to offer age concessions up to 55 years, a 10% reduction in the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), and other concessions in English and work experience.

South Australia DAMA Occupation List

The SA DAMA comes under two agreements which list eligible occupations and concessions available:

• Adelaide Innovation and Technology Agreement: the occupations are restricted to employers in the Adelaide Metropolitan region. The only concession that applies to these occupations is that they all have a pathway to permanent residency, and include an age concession.

• South Australian Regional Workforce Agreement: includes some occupations eligible to employers in the whole of South Australia and some occupations eligible for employers only in the postcode range 5220 to 5734 (non-metropolitan SA). The agreement includes a range of occupation-specific concessions concerning:
  • Skills and experience
  • TSMIT
  • English
  • Age
  • Permanent pathway

Review the lists to see if your occupation is eligible and what concessions apply.

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your DAMA Visa application.

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

You can book an appointment online or call us at (+61) 8 8351 9956.

In the past few weeks, some Australian states and territories have opened for state nomination with limited places. There is a big focus on nominating applicants with 'critical skills' to help Australia's economic recovery post-COVID.

We are receiving a lot of questions regarding the scope of the sectors for the Global Talent Independent visa. As there is no set occupation list for the GTI visa, many potential candidates do not know whether their occupations will fall within one of the seven target sectors.

As of 17 December 2020, Direction 89 lists priority sectors as:

• Resources
• Agri-food and AgTech
• Energy
• Health industries
• Defence, advanced manufacturing and space
• Circular economy
• DigiTech
• Infrastructure and tourism
• Financial services and FinTech
• Education​

Please note this blog was written prior to 17 December 2020.

This is an older article. Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa

The most common areas of interest are:

1. Quantum Information, Advanced Digital, Data Science and ICT
2. FinTech
3. Cyber Security
4. MedTech
5. Energy and Mining Technology

There seems to be a reasonable amount of confusion regarding what is included in each sector. The key focus of the GTI is to attract high-tech occupations within the target sectors.

While we aim to provide some clarity on this, there is no defined edge to the target sectors.

Unlike GSM & employer-sponsored programs, the GTI process is not based on an occupation list. 

It is also important to keep in mind that all applicants need to meet the other requirements for the Global Talent Independent Programs; such as:

• recognised internationally
• prominent in your target sector
• would be an asset to Australia
• would not have difficulty finding work in Australia in your field
• are nominated by an Australian organisation or individual, who is also prominent in the same field
• earn or are likely to earn at least AUD153,600 (can be shown through a range of different ways)

Ultimately, the only way to concretely determine if your background is going to be accepted into the program is by submitting an expression of interest.

To learn more about the Australian Global Talent program, click here.

Quantum Information, Advanced Digital, Data Science and ICT

This is the largest target sector for GTI, making up 28% of the 2019-2020 program year. 

The Global Talent Independent visa program is intended to attract “high-tech” professionals from a range of different fields. Most of those professionals in other fields (especially FinTech; MedTech & Cyber Security) also fall within this general ICT field.

ICT

The following occupations might be considered under this sector, as they are ICT occupations:

• 261111 ICT Business Analyst
• 261313 Software Engineer
• 261312 Developer Programmer
• 135111 Chief Information Officer
• 135112 ICT Project Manager
• 263111 Computer Network and Systems Engineer
• 263112 Network Administrator
• 263211 ICT Quality Assurance Engineer

We have also previously received an invitation for a professional with a background as 223211 ICT Trainer.

We note that being in the target sector is one of the requirements, but it is important that you are also able to meet the other requirements of the program. 

Not all professionals in these occupations will be able to meet the salary or academic requirements. 

Quantum Information, Advanced Digital and Data Science

There are a few occupations which we think may fall into these fields, but might not fit into ICT.

It is possible that occupations such as the following may be relevant:

• 224112 Mathematician
• 224113 Statistician
• 234514 Biotechnologist
• Actuary

Ultimately, it is important that you have an established background in the claimed field. A mathematics professor who has had no engagement with Data Science is unlikely to be suited to the Global Talent Independent visa program.

While these occupations may be relevant, it is also important to keep in mind the other requirements of the Global Talent Independent Visa Program. You need to be able to show that you are likely to attract a salary of at least AUD153,600 in Australia. This can be shown in a range of ways, but means that an entry level software programmer is unlikely to be successful through the GTI visa program. If that’s you, you may have other options under one of Australia’s other skilled migration programs or an employer-sponsored visa.

Click here to learn more about finding an Australian nominator in this sector.

FinTech: Financial Technology

There are a range of professionals who contribute to the success of a financial technology team.

Some common roles in the FinTech industry are: 

• 261312 Developer Programmer
• 261313 Software Engineer
• Managers working in the FinTech industry
• Project Managers overseeing FinTech projects within a larger business
• Consultants
• Chief Technology Officers
• Chief Data Officers

The FinTech space in Australia is made up of different players, ranging from the big banks to fresh startups. Some recent names in the industry are: Xinja, UP, Wisr, Huddle Insurance and AirWallex 

Cyber Security

Cyber Security is another one of the target sectors for the GTI visa program.

Some occupations in the Cyber Security field might include:

• 262112 ICT Security Specialist
• Security Software Developer
• Information Security Analyst
• Forensics Analyst
• Penetration Tester
• Ethical Hacker

Click here to learn more about finding an Australian nominator in this sector.

MedTech: Medical Technology

Medical technology involves innovative instruments that are used to save and improve people’s lives by improving following activities:  

• Disease diagnosis; prevention; disease monitoring and surveillance; disease treatment & alleviation.
• Injury diagnosis; injury monitoring and surveillance; injury treatment & alleviation & compensation for an injury.
• Clean and destroy bacteria on medical devices
• Using in-vitro examination of specimens derived from the human body to provide information for medical or diagnostic purposes.

Those working in the development of medical devices may be eligible for a GTI visa under MedTech. MedTech can span fields within medical technology including dental, diagnostic imaging and orthopaedic implants.

Examples of such occupations may include:

• 251912 Orthotist or Prosthetist designing new technology
• 234611 Medical Laboratory Scientist
• Engineer working in research, maintenance and development of medical devices
• Programmer working in medical software
• Statistician working in MedTech

Energy and Mining Technology

Australia has a rich and varied history of energy, mining and resources industries. There is room for further development in mining equipment, technology and services (METS).

Global talents are being sought who can bring skills to Australia to push the METS industry even further.

We also understand there is a focus on new energy technologies, which could include renewable energy developments that would help with climate change. 

Potential occupations for this target sector are:

• 233611 Mining Engineer
• 233612 Petroleum Engineer
• Mud Engineer
• Petrophysical Engineer
• Process Engineer (Mining)

While we have provided examples of occupations that could fall within these target sectors, this list is neither exhaustive of all the possible occupations for a GTI visa nor a guarantee that an applicant with that occupation will be successful. Eligibility for the GTI visa will be dependent on the applicant’s personal circumstances including skills, work experience, qualifications and ability to attract a salary of at least AUD 153,600.

If your occupation is not listed here but you think you may be eligible, please contact us for a preliminary assessment of your eligibility. 

Do you need help?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.

Based in Adelaide South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Sources:

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/services/global-talent-distinguished-talent-visas/global-talent-independent-visa.html

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/services/global-talent-distinguished-talent-visas.html

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/visas-for-innovation/global-talent-independent-program

https://fintechaustralia.org.au/

https://www.mtaa.org.au/

South Australia has released its new State Nominated Occupation List (SNOL) for skilled migration, and its good news for prospective migrants. State nomination applications will be open again at 12pm (ACST) on 3 July 2019.

On 11 March 2019, the Australian skilled occupation lists were significantly updated. The changes include occupations being added or removed, as well as conditions being added. Moreover, occupations have been moved from Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), to Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), and Regional Migration.

Immigration SA has conducted a mid-year review that resulted in an updated occupation list for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas.

Australian Occupation Lists & Skills Assessments for TSS Subclass 482 Visa, Employer Sponsored Permanent Visa - ENS 186 - RSMS 187 - Vetassess (Direct Streams & Temporary Resident Transition Streams) 

We are often approached by clients who are confused as to whether their occupation requires a skills assessment in order to be eligible for a TSS subclass 482 visa or other employer-sponsored visa.

 Skill Select Round Results

The Most Recent Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for 2019/2020 program year, Occupation Lists for the Skilled - Independent Visa (subclass 189) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)

(This article was originally posted as "The Most Recent Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for 2018/2019 program year, Occupation Lists for the Skilled - Independent Visa (subclass 189) and Skilled – Regional Visa (Provisional) (subclass 489)" and includes the results from the 2018/2019 program year)

Skill Select Round Results

• January 2020
• December 2019
• January/Febuary 2019
• December 2018
• November 2018
• October
  
• September
  
• August
  
• July 
• June

SkillSelect Round Results January 2020

Good News for Skilled Visa Applicants as Invitations for 189 and 491 (family sponsored) Visas Increase

January 2020 SkillSelect Invitation Round

The latest report on invitations issued by the Department of Home Affairs shows that 1,000 invitations were issued for the Skilled Independent subclass 189 visa on 10 January 2020. This is a significant increase from the 250 invitations that were issued for the same visa subclass at the last round in December 2019.

A total of 300 invitations were issued for the subclass 491 (family sponsored stream) in this invitation round.

Cut-off Score – 90 Points

Whilst the number of invitations for both the 189 and the 491 (family sponsored stream) has increased, the minimum points remain high. The minimum points for both visa subclasses are 90 points. This minimum point score may be difficult for offshore applicants to access as most applicants rely on points earnt from studies in Australia or regional areas of Australia.

Although the positive change is that points awarded for state sponsorship has now increased to 15 points, in comparison to the previous 10 points.

Source: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skillselect/invitation-rounds

Still Tough Times for Some Occupations

Although there has been a slight decrease in the cut-off scores, minimum requirements for some occupations, such as accountants, auditors and electronic engineers, remain high. It is expected that the points for these occupations, particularly for accountants, will remain high or continue to rise. (link to https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/accountants-applying-for-australian-migration-face-high-points-requirements-how-to-increase-your-points-for-employer-sponsored-rsms-187-ens-186-independent-189-489-and-state-nomination-190-skilled-visas.html)

Our View

Potential for More 189 Invitations

A total of 16,652 Skilled Independent 189 visas are available for the 2019-2020 financial year (link to https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/migration-program-planning-levels). Based on this number, we expect that the Department of Home Affairs may issue more monthly invitations. If over 1,300 invitations are issued per month for the 189, there is a potential for the point cut-off scores to decrease in future rounds. Regardless, scores for popular occupations, such as accountants, are likely to remain high.

More Family Sponsored Stream 491 Visas

There has also been an increase in invitations issued to the subclass 491 (family sponsored stream). In this round, a total of 300 invitations were issued in this stream. Previously, only 10 invitations were issued per month, with a rough estimate of 100 invitations for the year.  This meant that it was practically impossible to receive an invitation under this stream. With the recent increase in the number of invitations, the 491 (family sponsored stream) is becoming a more viable option.

 SkillSelect Round Results February 2019

The Department of Home Affairs has released the Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for February 2019.

January marks the sixth month of the 2018/2019 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

In February 2019, Home Affairs issued 1,490 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

Through the past six months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but up until this February, we have seen a significant drop in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

*The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses. State and Territory Governments nominate throughout the month for specific points tested skilled migration and business innovation and investment visas.

Main Differences

 Through the 2018/2019 program year, we have witnessed some major fluctuations within the SkillSelect round invitations. In December and January there was 2500 total invitations issued which is nearly double the number of visas issued in February. This may be attributed to high amount of invitations issued in October and November. As you can see below, there were less invitations issued at every point requirement. The major difference between the past few months and February were the amount of visa issued at 70 points.

Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points From November 2018 to February 2019.

While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas. With that being said, the minimum point requirement for the subclass 489 has stayed firmly at 80 points.

Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

*Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

Monthly Points Requirement Changes

Due to demand and other factors the monthly invitation round results also release changes in minimum point requirements. These point changes are often

 SkillSelect Round Results December 2018

The Department of Home Affairs has released the Australian SkillSelect Invitation Round Results for December 2018.

November marks the sixth month of the 2018/2019 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

In December 2019, Home Affairs issued 2,490 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

Through the past six months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but up until this December, we have seen continual growth in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

*The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

Main Differences

 Through the 2019/2019 program year, we have witnessed some major fluctuations within the SkillSelect round invitations. In October and November there was 4350 total invitations issued which is nearly double the number of visas issued in December. This may be attributed to low amount of invitations issued in July. As you can see below, there were less invitations issued at every point requirement. The major difference between the past few months and December were the amount of visa issued at 70 points.

Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points From September 2018 to December 2018.

While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas. With that being said, the minimum point requirement for the subclass 489 has stayed firmly at 80 points.

Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

*Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

Monthly Points Requirement Changes

Due to demand and other factors the monthly invitation round results also release changes in minimum point requirements. These point changes are often

SkillSelect Round Results November 2018

The Department of Home Affairs has released the Australian SkillSelect invitation round results for November 2018. November marks the fifth month of the 2018 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

In November 2018, Home Affairs issued 4340 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

Through the past five months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but we have seen continual growth in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

*The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

Main Differences

With the obvious difference being the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued, there was a vast difference in the range of points for clients who were invited to apply. In fact, there was major growth in the amount of invitations issued at lower points. This is a welcomed change as many of our clients have found it extremely difficult to gain the necessary amount of points. Moreover, gaining the minimum amount of points does not mean that you will receive an invitation. For example, while a minimum requirement for a certain occupation could be 70 points, Home Affairs may issue the majority of invitations for that certain occupation at 80 points. This means that due to the high competition many qualified applicants still may not be issued an invitation.

Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points in September 2018 and October 2018.

While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas.

Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

*Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

Monthly Points Requirement Changes

Due to demand and other factors the monthly invitation round results also release changes in minimum point requirements. These point changes are often

What To Expect In The Coming Months

With major differences seen from September to October/November it is tough to say exactly what is to come. With that being said, if the past two months are giving us a look into what is to come, we will see lots more invitations issued.

What we do know is that Home Affairs has allocated a total of 43,990 invitations to be issued for the 2018-2019 migration year. This meant that Home Affairs would have to issue approximately 3,665 invitations per month to reach the 43,990 cap. Up until October, it seemed unlikely that the cap would be met considering Home Affairs had been issuing significantly lower amounts of invitations per month. With only 5 months having past, we are sitting at an average of 2,942 invitations having been issued. Meaning there is still a gap of 723 invitations issued per month before we meet the cap.

With Home Affairs releasing 4,350 invitations in October and November it has brought the current total to 14,710 invitations issued, meaning that they seem to be back on track to meet the invitation ceiling. If we look at the round results from November 2017, we can see that there was a total to 11,321 invitations issued, significantly less than 2018.

All in all, it is great that David Coleman and Home Affairs have stepped up and began issuing a responsible amount of monthly invitations. We can only hope that this continues.

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SkillSelect Round Results October 2018

The Department of Home Affairs has finally released the long-awaited Australian SkillSelect round results for October 2018 .

October marks the fourth month of the 2018 migration year for Skilled Migration Visa invitations to be issued.

In October 2018, Home Affairs issued 4340 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

Through the past four months, Home Affairs has continued to issue only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas, but we have seen continual growth in the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued each month.

*The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

Main Differences

With the obvious difference being the amount of Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas issued, there was a vast difference in the range of points for clients who were invited to apply. In fact, there was major growth in the amount of invitations issued at lower points. This is a welcomed change as many of our clients have found it extremely difficult to gain the necessary amount of points. Moreover, gaining the minimum amount of points does not mean that you will receive an invitation. For example, while a minimum requirement for a certain occupation could be 70 points, Home Affairs may issue the majority of invitations for that certain occupation at 80 points. This means that due to the high competition many qualified applicants still may not be issued an invitation.

Accountants tend to face some of the most competition and highest points requirements. Here are some tips on how accountants and other applicants can receive higher points.  

Below are two charts comparing the invitations issued based on points in September 2018 and October 2018.

While the largest changes are seen above in the Skilled Independent visas, it is worth noting that there was a slight change in the Skilled Regional visas.

Top 5 Most Popular Occupations

Currently, there are about 73 occupations on the occupation list. The table below shows the occupations with the most invitations issued and the invitation ceilings for the 2018-2019 program year. Each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations can be found using the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

*Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

Below is a list of occupations that have not been issued any invitations and their occupation ceiling. While this is not the complete list, this is the majority of occupations that have yet to receive a single occupation invitation. Furthermore, there are several occupations that have only received between 0 and 50 invitations.  

Why Were the Results Released So Late?

When asking this question, it is important to remember that Home Affairs has still been issuing the invitations in a timely manner. It is just the monthly round result statistics presented to the public that we have been awaiting. While we are unsure as to why the October round results were released in December, it could be due to a couple of factors. First, Home Affairs is currently in the process of upgrading their website and during the month of October, for the most part, their website was down. Second, after viewing the invitations issued it could be due to the sheer amount of invitations actually issued. Lastly, this is the first time Home Affairs has attempted to release monthly statistics. In the past, the round results had been released quarterly.

What To Expect In The Coming Months

With major differences being seen from September and October it is tough to say exactly what is to come.

What we do know is that Home Affairs has allocated a total of 43,990 invitations to be issued for the 2018-2019 migration year. This meant that Home Affairs would have to issue approximately 3,665 invitations per month to reach the 43,990 cap. Up until October, it seemed unlikely that the cap would be met considering Home Affairs had been issuing significantly lower amounts of invitations per month.

With Home Affairs releasing 4,450 invitations in October it has brought the current total to 10,360 invitations issued, meaning that they may be on track to meet the invitation ceiling. If we look at the round results from October 2017, we can see that there was a total to 10,616 invitations issued. So, now that it seems as though that that amount of invitations issued is back on track, this leads us to believe that Home Affairs may begin to level off the amount of invitations issued and begin to issue a consistent number of invitations.  With that being said, it is important to remember that we have still yet to see the round results for November, which was scheduled to be released 11 December.

Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SkillSelect Round Results September

After the political spill in late August and several weeks, Home Affairs has released the Australian Skill Select Round Results for September.

In September 2018, Home Affairs issued another 2490 Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visas and only 10 Skilled Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) visas.

This is the exact same number of visas that were issued for the month of August, which bring the total amount of visas issued to 6010 since the beginning of the migration year.

*The above figures do not include invitations issued for State and Territory Government nominated visa subclasses.

Main Differences

While the total number of visas issued stayed the same, there was a vast difference in the points range for clients who were invited to apply.

 Skilled – Independent

605 visas granted to applicants with 70 points 

1,202 visas granted to applicants with 75 points

545 visas granted to applicants with 80 points

5 visas granted to applicants with 90 points

Skilled - Regional (Provisional)

5 visas granted to applicants with 80 points

5 visas granted to applicants with 90 points

Top 5 Most Popular Visas

Below you will see the current top 5 most popular visas bases on the amount of invitations issued to date.

Occupations That Have Zero Invitations Issued

On the other side of the spectrum, there are occupations that have had zero invitations issued. These are not in an order and there are plenty of other occupations that have not issued invitations, see the chart below.

Change between August & September

While there are significant changes between the August and September SkillSelect Round Results, it is also important to remember that there was a change in leadership and subsequent new Minister for Immigration in late August. Understandably, this could be the reason September’s results were released so late and why they look so different.

A major change we witnessed during the September round results was that there were invitations issued for people with 95 and 100 points. Another major change from August to September is that there was not a single invitation issued to any applicants that held 85 points.

All in all, we witnessed over 200 less independent visa invitations issued at 70 points, over 100 more issued at 75 points, 100 less issued at 80 points, and 100 less invitations issued at 85 points.

What can we expect for October?

We have seen a large difference between August and September which leaves the question, what should we expect for October?

Hopefully we will see a lot more visas being issued. By 20 September in the 2017-2018 program, Home Affairs had already issued a total of 8059 invitations; 7500 Skilled- Independent visas, and 559 Skilled Regional Visas. With that being said, the 2017-2018 program year only issued 16,296 of the available 43,990 invitations. If Home Affairs were to utilize the entire 43,990 possible invitations they would need to average approximately 3,665 invitations per month.

If Home Affairs does attempt to reach their invitation cap of 43,990 for the 2018-2019 program year, the next rounds will need to have significantly more invitations. For this to happen we may see further movement within the minimum points required for certain occupations.

Remember, the Invitation rounds for Skilled - Independent (subclass 189) and Skilled - Regional Provisional (subclass 489) visas will be run once a month. Invitation rounds are anticipated to run on the 11th day of each month but dates for the rounds are subject to change as we have seen from the month of September.

Invitation numbers in each round may vary depending on the number of applications being processed by the department.

Expect more changes and more difficult requirements for independent, employer, and state-sponsored visas as the competition for these phases will be high, in particularly, for those occupations that cannot get through the 189.

We have already seen a number of changes from states including the ACT Tasmania and South Australia in relation to sponsorship required months for the 190 and 489 Visas.

On 11 August Home Affairs released the second SkillSelect round results for the 2018 program year.

SkillSelect Round Results August 

For the month of August 2018 Home Affairs issued a total of 2500 invitations. While the amount of Independent 189 visas skyrocketed to 2490, the Regional 489 Visa invitations remained at exactly 10.

In July 2018 there were a total of 1010 invitations issued; 1000 Independent 189 and 10 Regional 489 Visa invitations sent. July 2018 round results here.

More Invitations to Follow Leadership Change?

The recent spill and leadership change happened on 21 August. This round of results is from before the leadership change. While we are still unsure as to how or if the leadership change will affect the upcoming round results, we are anticipating that having a dedicated Home Affairs Minister could help. Especially because the policy under Dutton seemed to have been aimed towards lowering the number of approvals.

It is also important to remember that the new Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, David Coleman, celebrates diversity and understands the pain of exclusion. Therefore, we are excited to see what impact he has on the remaining SkillSelect round results.

Top 5 Occupation Invitations Issued

*Occupations that are subject to pro rata arrangements. For Accountants (2211) the occupational ceiling also reflects volumes in other skilled visa categories.

Occupation Point Requirement Changes

For the majority of occupations within the 189 Independent Visa the minimum points required is set at 70 points. For the skilled regional sponsored 489 the minimum points required is 80 points. With that being said, the minimum required points have changed for some occupations since the last round results in July.

Invitations Issued Based on Points Score

Skilled – Independent

834 visas granted to applicants with 70 points

1,094 visas granted to applicants with 75 points

453 visas granted to applicants with 80 points

107 visas granted to applicants with 85 points

2 visas granted to applicants with 90 points

Skilled - Regional (Provisional)

9 Visas granted to applicants with 80 points

1 Visas granted to applicants with 85 points

Expect Even More Invitations Issued

As of 11 August 2018, there have been a total of 3510 invitations issued; 1010 in July and 2500 in August. During the 2017-2018 program Home Affairs had already issued a total of 4,466. With that being said, the 2017-2018 program year only issued 16,296 of the available 43,990 invitations. If Home Affairs were to utilize the entire 43,990 possible invitations they would need to average approximately 3,665 invitations per month.

If Home Affairs does attempt to reach their invitation cap of 43,990 for the 2018-2019 program year, the next rounds will need to have significantly more invitations. For this to happen we may see further movement within the minimum points required for certain occupations.

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Home Affairs has released the first SkillSelect round invitation results for the 2018-19 program year.

The invitation round to apply for the Skilled - Independent (subclass 189) and Skilled - Regional (Provisional) (subclass 489) was conducted on 11 July 2018. This month there were 1000 Independent 189 Visa invitations while only 10 Regional 489 Visa invitations sent. The total number of positions planned for the 2018-19 Skilled Independent Visa remains at 43,990.

Invitation rounds are anticipated to run on the 11th day of each month. Dates for the rounds are subject to change but expect the points to remain high at 70 points or higher within this program year.

Australian Immigration News Video May 2018 - SAF, TSS 482, Regional Visas

Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) State Nomination 188/132 Re-Opened for South Australia

Immigration SA has re-opened the application system for Business Innovation and Investment State nomination 188/132 on Monday 9^th July 2018. With the re-opening of the Business and Investment State nomination 188/132 applications it is very important to remember that there is a quota that determines the availability of applications. This means that there are limited places available and that the system will close again. As a result, it is important to apply as soon as possible.

Key terms: Migration Policy Changes – 17 January 2018 Changes – Subclass 189 Skilled Independent – Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa – Subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa – MLTSSL – STSOL – Occupation Lists – Subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme -

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has released updates to the following skilled occupation lists:

- Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL) and Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) for Skilled Independent and Skilled Nominated visas (subclass 189, 190, 489)

https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2018L00046

- Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL) and Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) for Temporary Work (Skilled) visas (subclass 457)

https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2018L00044

- Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL) and Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) for Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) – Direct Entry Stream

https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2018L00045

- Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL) for Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) – Graduate Work

https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2018L00046

- Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL) and Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) for Training visa (subclass 407)

https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2018L00047

Key terms: Medium and Long Term Skilled Shortage List – MLTSSL – Short Term Skilled Occupation List – STSOL – Skilled Occupation Lists – 1 July Changes

Welcome to world of confusing skilled occupation lists. As we all know the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and Consolidated Skilled Occupation List (CSOL) were replaced by the new Medium and Long Term Skills Shortage List (MLTSSL) and the Short Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) on 19 April 2017. Until 30^th June 2017 the change was essentially a change in name (and removal of 216 occupations). As of 1^st July 2017 we now have additional changes to the applications of the MLTSSL and the STSOL.

There are now different MLTSSL and STSOL for different visa programmes

Key terms: Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa – Subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa – State Sponsorship – State Nomination – Occupation Lists

State sponsorship is a critical component of the Australian visa application for many. Having a state nominated visa application provides:

• an immediate Invitation to Apply (ITA) for the subclass 190 Skilled Nominated and subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visas, i.e. not subject to invitation round points requirements
• access to additional occupations on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) - each Australian State and Territory creates their own list from the STSOL)

Typically there are limited places for each occupation being sponsored by the different States and Territories. The best time to apply is in early July (NOW) as the planning numbers are reset for the new financial year.

Key terms: Migration Policy Changes – 1 July Changes – Subclass 189 Skilled Independent – Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa – Subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa – MLTSSL – STSOL – Occupation Lists - Subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme - Subclass 457 Temporary Work (Skilled) - Occupation caveats

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) has released updates to the following skilled occupation lists:

- Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

- Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)

- Employer Nominated Scheme (subclass 186) – Direct Entry Stream Occupation List

- Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457) Occupation List

- Training visa (subclass 407) Occupation List for Nomination eligibility type 2

In summary 12 occupations were removed from the occupation lists, namely:

Key terms: Migration Policy Changes – 1 July Changes – Subclass 189 Skilled Independent – Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa – Subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored visa – Age requirements – English exemptions – MLTSSL – STSOL – Occupation Lists -

There are plenty of changes happening to the Australia migration programme on 1 July 2017. Here is a summary of the major changes affecting the most common visa subclasses.

Age requirements lowered for a number of visas!

The age limits of the following visas have been reduced to below 45 years of age:

At the time of application

- Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Direct Entry stream

- Subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Direct Entry stream

At the time of invitation to apply

- Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated

- Subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored

- Subclass 189 Skilled Independent

Previously it was announced that the lower age requirement was only applicable to the subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa application. The age limit does not apply to applicants for the NZ stream for the subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa.

Key terms: Migration Policy Changes – Employer Sponsored Visas – Subclass 187 RSMS – Subclass 186 ENS – English Requirements – Age Requirements

With the announcement of the 457 visa programme being abolished in March 2018, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) also announced changes to be introduced to the permanent employer sponsored visas, which include:

·         the subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa

·         the subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa

The changes are planned to be introduced in stages on 1 July 2017 and March 2018. In this article we will be looking at the changes coming on 1 July 2017.

Key terms: VETASSESS – Migration Skills Assessment – Skilled Occupation List changes – Nominated Occupation – Short-term Skilled Occupation List – STSOL – Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List – MLTSSL

VETASSESS is one of the many Skills Assessment Authorities which processes and issues Migration Skills Assessment results. Many generic business occupations and miscellaneous specialist professions are assessed by VETASSESSS.

Following the announcement of the new Skilled Occupation Lists – the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) and the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), VETASSESS has issued an announcement as 216 occupations were removed from the combined list of occupations suitable for migration.

My nominated occupation was one of the occupations removed! What happens now?

Updated numbers for occupation ceilings under the SkillSelect Programme!

Every year the Australian migration programme sets an occupation ceiling for each skilled occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). The occupation ceiling limits the number of invitations (Invitation to Apply) which can be issued to a particular occupation under the SkillSelect programme.

As of 31 March 2017 two groups of occupations have met their respective occupation ceilings and will no longer receive further invitations for this programme year. The two groups of occupations are:

·         Other Engineering Professionals (ANZSCO Group 2339)

·         Computer Network Professional (ANZSCO Group 2631)

If your nominated occupation is from the ANZSCO Group above, you will not receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) until the invitation rounds from 1 July 2017 onwards.

The occupation ceilings apply to the subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa and subclass 489 Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa (Relative) categories. State or Territory Nominated visas (subclass 190 and 489), Employer Sponsored (subclass 457, ENS 186 and RSMS 187) or Business Innovation and Investment visa subclasses are not subject to the occupation ceilings.