188/888 visas: SIV in sight amid reports of rorting, potential increase from $5 million?

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188/888 visas: SIV in sight amid reports of rorting, potential increase from $5 million?

A review of Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment Program is ongoing, however, Significant Investor visas, which is a passive investment stream under the Subclass 188/888 – Business Innovation and Investment visa has come under fire with recent reports of integrity concerns and an alleged Ponzi scheme run through the current complying investment framework. The review suggests the $5 million minimum may be increased.

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Australia’s permanent migration places remain at 160,000 for 2020-21…for now

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Australia’s permanent migration places remain at 160,000 for 2020-21…for now

The Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs) has released an FAQ to confirm among other things that the number of permanent migration places allocated for this program year (2020-21) is the same as for the last program year. This is not set in stone and is likely to change when the Federal Budget is handed down in October.

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Special visa arrangements for Hong Kong passport holders; new skilled occupation lists coming soon?

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Special visa arrangements for Hong Kong passport holders; new skilled occupation lists coming soon?

The prime minister has set out a plan for certain Hong Kong passport holders who hold Australian visas to extend their stay in Australia for up to 5 years. Additionally, new student graduates and temporary work visa applicants will also have access to a 5-year visa, with a pathway to a permanent visa available. The government has also set its sights on attracting Hong Kong’s best a brightest workers and businesses.

But perhaps the biggest announcement may be that revisions to the skilled occupation lists are coming sooner rather than later.

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International students inbound on pilot programs, business travellers floated, all only once state borders open

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International students inbound on pilot programs, business travellers floated, all only once state borders open

Late last week, firm words from the prime minister were directed towards his state and territory counterparts to open their borders as this would be a precondition before international borders are opened. The initial stages, likely in July 2020, will see international students enter Australia on pilot programs with select institutions and with the possibility of international business travellers allowed to enter too (or shortly after) according to the health minister.

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