Australian Migration Visa Fees

Starting from 1 July 2024, important changes will take effect regarding visa conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608. These adjustments to charges for Australian Migration are part of the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy, aimed at reducing worker exploitation and enhancing productivity. These changes reflect a commitment to creating a fairer and more efficient system for temporary migrants.

Key improvements have been made to enhance labour market mobility for temporary migrants holding specific visas. These include:

• Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457)
• Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494)

Previously, temporary visa holders faced significant challenges if they stopped working with their sponsoring employer. The new rules offer more flexibility, allowing visa holders greater freedom and time to navigate their employment situation in Australia. If you hold one of the visas mentioned above and your employment with your sponsor ends, you will now have more time to find a new sponsor, apply for a different visa, or make arrangements to leave Australia. Specifically, visa holders will be granted:

• Up to 180 days at a time to remain in Australia, or
• A maximum of 365 days in total across the entire duration of their visa.

This extended period is designed to ease the pressure on visa holders, giving them a better opportunity to secure new employment or adjust their plans. During this time, you will also be allowed to work for other employers. This flexibility extends to working in occupations that are not listed in your most recently approved sponsorship nomination, ensuring that you can support yourself while searching for a new sponsor or alternative options.

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Important conditions vis a vis charges for Australian Migration

However, there are important conditions to be aware of. Unless exempt, visa holders cannot begin working for another employer unless they have officially ceased working with their sponsoring employer. Furthermore, if you continue to work for your existing sponsor, you must remain in your nominated occupation.

Employers also have responsibilities under these new rules. Sponsors must notify the Department of any changes in the employment situation within 28 days. This includes informing the Department if a visa holder resigns or if the sponsorship arrangement is terminated. Keeping the Department updated is crucial to ensure compliance with sponsorship obligations. More details on these requirements can be found under the section “Sponsorship obligations for Standard Business Sponsors.”

Additionally, visa holders must ensure that they do not engage in any work that is inconsistent with any licence or registration required for their nominated occupation. This also includes adhering to any specific conditions or requirements linked to their profession.

These changes will apply not only to new visa applicants but also to existing visa holders as of 1 July 2024. It’s important to note that any periods during which a visa holder stopped working for their sponsor before this date will not be counted towards the new time allowances provided by these changes.

These adjustments mark a significant shift in Australia’s approach to temporary migration, offering greater flexibility and protection for workers while maintaining the integrity of the sponsorship system.

What should I do if I am looking to Emigrate to Australia

For those looking to migrate to Australia or already residing there under one of these visa subclasses, understanding charges for Australian Migration is essential. They are designed to empower you, offering more time and options to secure your future in Australia. If you need further information or guidance on how these changes may affect you, please visit the official resources or seek professional advice to ensure you navigate these new rules successfully.

Check out our website here at Emigrate to Australia and Contact Greg Veal at [email protected]   Taylor Hampton Solicitors is the company managing our Australian Migration Services