Subclass 457 & Student Visas - Immediate Changes

Following on from our previous blog which advised of possible changes to the Subclass 457 visa scheme, the following minor amendments have recently been announced and will commence from the 19 April 2016:

• The introduction of a new Subclass 457 obligation on standard business sponsors that they not engage discriminatory recruitment practises, on the grounds of immigration status or citizenship is introduced.
• Amendment of the Internet application process so that requiring visa applicants to enter the nomination details in their application to streamline the application.
• The removal of the requirement for applicants to provide English testing where this is already required for occupational licencing or registration.

Perhaps more importantly however are the sweeping changes to the current Student visa framework with the simplification of visa Subclasses and the implementation of the following amendments:

• The reduction of visa subclassess available to two student visa subclasses only: Subclass 500 (Student) and Subclass 590 (Student Guardian)
• Streamline application and processing requirements for student visa applicants, with common criteria and genuineness of application for entry and stay as a student
• Simplify range of requirements including enrolment, financial and other requirements relating to visas previously held if the application is made in Australia
• The current regulatory assessment level framework and streamlined processing provisions will be repealed and new requirements introduced to strengthen the integrity of the programme, by providing a larger range of factors for decision makers to assess genuineness and the need for individuals to provide evidence of financial and English proficiency
• Clarify for student visa holders the conditions on the courses they are permitted to undertake and when a change of course would require them to apply for a new student visa
• Make other amendments to repeal duplicate and redundant provisions and clarify the operation of the relevant provisions

For more information readers should refer to Migration Legislation Amendment 2016 (2016 Measures No.1) Regulation 2016 available here.

If you would like to speak to our migration lawyers in Brisbane today, give us a call on 1300 MIGR8TE (644 788) or send your questions to enquiry@salvomigration.com.au and we hope you enjoyed visiting Salvo Migration. 

Originally Published here: Subclass 457 & Student Visas - Immediate Changes