- It will now be twice as difficult to secure a study or work visa for immigrants seeking opportunities in Australia
- The new rules took effect on July 1, 2024, tightening the noose on the influx of foreigners into the country
- TUKO.co.ke delves into the six new rules and what their implementation means to immigrants
For decades, Australia has been a choice destination for thousands of Kenyans looking to relocate for work or study.
Source: Getty Images
In the future, that will not be the case after the Australian government made significant changes to visa regulations starting July 1.
These changes include increased application fees and a series of measures to address issues related to temporary visas and migrant workers.
TUKO.co.ke shares the six new rules that have officially taken effect, making relocation more difficult than before.
1. Increase in Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (significant)
One of the major changes is the increase in the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) from $70,000 (KSh 8.9 million) to $73,150 (KSh 9.3 million).
This adjustment is based on annual indexation and marks the second increase under the current government after a decade-long freeze at $53,900 (KSh 6.9 million).
2. Changes to Temporary Graduate Visas
Student visa applicants intending to pursue studies in Australia can apply while in their countries. Those who meet the criteria are granted visas.
“As of 1 July 2024, the fee for international student visas will increase from $710 to $1,600,” reads a statement by the Ministry of Education.
The new rule shortens the duration of Temporary Graduate Visas and tightens the age eligibility criteria.
These changes are part of the government’s efforts to streamline the visa process and ensure the system remains fair and effective.
3. Ending ‘Visa Hopping’
According to the government, visa hopping has contributed to a growing cohort of ‘permanently temporary’ former international students.
Thousands were, therefore, able to continuously extend their stay in Australia through successive temporary visas.
To close the loophole and end this practice, immigrants should depart or find skilled jobs or other visa pathways.
This includes those that may lead to becoming permanent residents of Australia.
4. Enhancing Mobility for Temporary Skilled Migrants
In the new dispensation, the government has also extended the period temporary skilled migrants can remain in Australia.
The new duration has increased from 60 to 180 days to reduce exploitation and enhance productivity.
This change is also expected to provide greater stability and flexibility for skilled migrants working in Australia.
5. Strengthening Employer Compliance
The Strengthening Employer Compliance Bill 2023 introduces new criminal measures against employers who exploit migrants.
This legislation aims to protect migrant workers from unfair treatment and ensure that employers comply with Australia’s labour laws.
6. Workplace Justice Visa Pilot
The government has also introduced the Workplace Justice Visa Pilot.
This initiative allows temporary visa holders to remain temporary while pursuing workplace justice.
The pilot program is designed to support temporary workers seeking to resolve employment disputes without the risk of immediate deportation.
Why is Australia reducing immigration intake?
The rules come into effect six months after the Australian government announced its plan to reduce migration intake by half in the next two years.
Australia’s home affairs minister, Clare O’Neil, shared the development at a media briefing on Monday, December 11, 2023.
According to O’Neil, the new policy is part of a 10-year immigration strategy to help fix the country’s “broken” immigration system.
He added that immigration changes would reduce the country’s housing and infrastructure challenges.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke