Due to the current climate, immigration levels and planning have been affected.

There is some positive visa news following the Federal Budget Announcement, so please keep reading to find out the latest visa updates.

The Federal Budget predicts net overseas migration will be -71,200 less than the 154,000 persons in 2019-20, but is expected to gradually increase to around 201,000 in 2023-24.

What does the Federal Budget mean for:

Partner and Parent visas

The current Migration Program Planning level will remain at 160,000 for the 2020-21 program year, however, the distribution of places will change with an increase from 47,732 to 77,300 for Family stream places for this program year only.

So this means a lot more partner and parent visas will be granted in the coming year. The Department must be trying to clear those long backlogs in processing which is good news for applicants for partner or parent visas.

English language requirements will be introduced for Partner visa applicants AND their sponsor apparently to enhance social cohesion and economic participation outcomes. This is a huge change and will affect people. We don’t know what the level required will be. This could be a way for the government to raise revenue by charging a 2nd visa application charge to applicants. Once we have more detail will provide.

Employer-Sponsored, Global Talent, Business Innovation and Investment Program visas

Employer-Sponsored, Global Talent, Business Innovation and Investment Program visas will be prioritised within the Skilled Stream.

Onshore Visa applicants and Partner visa applicants

Onshore visa applicants and Partner visa applicants where the relevant sponsor resides in a designated regional area, will be prioritised for the 2020-21 Migration Program.

Temporary skilled workers and visitor visa holders

Temporary skilled workers and visitor visa holders will be eligible to have the VAC for a subsequent visa application waived, to allow them to return to Australia once travel restrictions are lifted.

Working holidaymakers

Working holidaymakers will be eligible to have the VAC for a subsequent visa application waived, to allow them to return to Australia once travel restrictions are lifted or otherwise be able to access a VAC refund.

If you have any questions about what the Federal Budget Announcement means for your visa situation, please contact us at info@four-corners.com.au.