Latest Updates to Australian Visa, Dear stakeholders and visa applicants, we at Absolute Immigration are committed to keeping you informed about the latest developments in Australian visa regulations. Starting from 1st July 2024, the Department of Home Affairs has introduced significant updates to visa conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608. These changes are strategically designed to combat worker exploitation and enhance productivity, aligning with the overarching goals of the Migration Strategy.

Visa Categories Impacted

The revised conditions will affect holders of the following visa subclasses:

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

Key Changes

One of the pivotal updates is the extension of time granted to visa holders who cease employment with their sponsoring employer. Now, individuals in this situation will have the flexibility to seek new sponsorship, apply for a different visa, or arrange their departure from Australia. Specifically, they will be allowed:

• Up to 180 days at a time, or
• A maximum of 365 days in total over the duration of their visa grant period.

Flexibility in Employment

During the specified transition period, visa holders are permitted to work for alternative employers, including in occupations that may not be listed in their most recent sponsorship nomination. This flexibility is crucial in enabling visa holders to sustain themselves while they pursue new sponsorship opportunities.

Conditions and Obligations

Under the updated regulations, visa holders must adhere to specific conditions and obligations:

Ceasing Work with Sponsor:

Latest Updates to Australian Visa, Unless exempt, individuals cannot engage in employment with another employer unless they have formally ceased employment with their sponsoring employer. Moreover, they are required to continue working in their nominated occupation while employed by their existing sponsor.

Sponsor Notification Requirements:

Sponsors are obligated to notify the Department of Home Affairs within 28 days of any changes in the sponsorship arrangement, such as ceasing sponsorship or if a visa holder resigns. Further details on sponsorship obligations can be found on the Department’s official resources.

Work Consistency:

Visa holders must ensure that their employment aligns with any necessary licenses or registrations required for their nominated occupation. Compliance with all relevant conditions and requirements specific to their occupation is mandatory.

Further Guidance

Understanding and adapting to these regulatory changes is crucial for both visa holders and sponsoring businesses alike. At Absolute Immigration, we are committed to providing comprehensive support and guidance throughout this transition. Our migration strategists are well-versed in the intricacies of Australian immigration law and stand ready to assist you in navigating these updates. Whether you are a business sponsor needing to ensure compliance with sponsorship obligations or an individual seeking clarity on your visa conditions

Applicability

These updates apply to both current visa holders and those who will be granted visas on or after 1 July 2024. It’s important to note that any periods during which a visa holder ceased working for their sponsor before 1 July 2024 will not count towards the newly introduced time periods.

Seek Expert Guidance

Navigating these updated visa conditions can be complex, and it’s essential to ensure compliance to maximize opportunities and avoid penalties. Our team of migration strategists at Absolute Immigration is here to assist both business sponsors and individuals in understanding these changes. Whether you need clarification on the new regulations or assistance with compliance, feel free to contact us.

Conclusion

At Absolute Immigration, we are dedicated to supporting businesses and individuals through these regulatory updates. By staying informed and proactively managing your visa obligations, you can navigate these changes effectively. For more personalized guidance and to explore how these updates may impact your specific circumstances, reach out to our experts today. Let us partner with you in achieving your goals in Australia while ensuring compliance and maximizing opportunities for success.