Australian Immigration landscape continues to change now more than ever. As such, it is appropriate to think about what the future of Australian immigration holds in wake of the new financial year.
Immigration Intake is likely to be reduced
Whilst there has been no formal announcement made by the Government, some States and Territories have closed their migration programs (business and skilled) and there is no definite date in terms of when the migration intake will re-open.
Focus will remain on foreign nationals already residing in Australia
Given the current travel exemptions imposed the focus will likely be on foreign nationals residing in Australia who wish to either change their visa status or become a permanent resident
There is likely to be a big spike in Australian Citizenship applications
In light of uncertainty surrounding visas, those who are eligible to Australian citizenship should seek to make an application. Becoming an Australian citizen is now more paramount than ever for permanent residents who want to remain in Australia long term
Sponsorship applications are likely to be securitised
Applications for TSS sponsored visas as well as ENS permanent residency are likely to be scrutinised. The issue is caused by massive underemployment rate in Australia. This is different from “unemployment” figures which the government releases. There will be greater emphasis on sponsors needing to justify why the role should be given to a foreign national over an Australian.
Significant processing time slowdown
There has been a significant slowdown in processing time for visa applications. TSS visas are taking almost 6 months to process in some cases whilst processing times for student visas are no longer published by the Department of Home Affairs. This will likely result in more people ending up on a Bridging Visa as they await for the outcome of their application.
Greater scrutiny of applications for a Bridging Visa B’s.
A Bridging Visa B allows an applicant to leave Australia and come back whilst maintaining their lawful status. Whilst traditionally the Policy surrounding Bridging Visa B required an applicant to demonstrate a genuine need to depart Australia, the policy was given a light touch approach. Case officers are now requesting further information on the need to travel and are asking the applicants if they could postpone their travel plans. This is likely to continue for some time.
New Legislation to be introduced
June is always a busy month in migration with a number of new rules and regulations introduced. We will likely see further updates on procedures relating to different types and directions as to how these visas are going to be assessed in the new financial year.