AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRATION NEWS

Major Changes to Australian General Skilled Migration Programme

Monday, 7 May 2007

The Australian Government has hinted at introducing extensive changes to the current General Skilled Migration Programme.

At present, to qualify under the General Skilled Migration Programme, an applicant is required to meet a certain point score set by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). This includes meeting English language, work experience, qualification and occupational requirements.

The changes, which are set to take place in September, will focus on the current requirements for the Skilled Independent, Skilled-State/Territory Nominated Independent, Skilled-Designated Area Sponsored and Skilled-Australian Sponsored visas and may have a direct impact on the existing point score and sponsorship requirements.

Under the current points test, applicants may also be eligible to claim additional or 'bonus' points for one of the following:

• capital investment in Australia
• Australian work experience
• fluency in one of Australia's community languages - other than English

This bonus point structure will also be adjusted to coincide with the proposed point score requirements.

Many will be affected by the proposed regulation updates, whether the changes will benefit or disadvantage potential skilled migrants is yet to be established. However, for those wishing to apply under the current skilled migration system, it is advisable to begin the application process immediately, as the skills assessment stage can take up to 4 months to complete - approaching the expected August 31, 2007 deadline for applications under the current system.

Although DIAC have made no formal announcements, the changes are said to be inevitable.

For further information about the changes, please click here.