Permanent migration slashed to 160,000; 186/187 visa numbers increasing; two new regional visas announced

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Permanent migration slashed to 160,000; 186/187 visa numbers increasing; two new regional visas announced

The much-rumoured new population policy and cut to Australia’s permanent migration was announced by the prime minister today. Permanent visa numbers will be cut from 190,000 to 160,000, however, for employer sponsored permanent visas, Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme visas and Subclass 187 – Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visas, they will actually increase. Two new regional visas have been revealed along with a bonus year for Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate visas for international students who study at a regional university.

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The regional visa debate

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The regional visa debate

This week saw debate by federal and state politicians on Australia’s population and immigration, with an emphasis on migration to regional areas. Current regulations, however, does not lend itself to this policy aim, except for General Skilled Migration visas, which already has one visa subclass requiring holders to live, study and work in a regional area. Could we see greater scrutiny on this suite of visas?

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Unpacking the politics of Australian immigration

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Unpacking the politics of Australian immigration

A detailed analysis on the on the recent politics on Australia’s permanent migration intake with reference to regulatory changes, statistics and what the future may bring.

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Contributory Parent visas capped at 7175 for the year; Assurance of Support rolled back!

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Contributory Parent visas capped at 7175 for the year; Assurance of Support rolled back!

Contributory parents visa have been capped for this financial year in what is probably the first time ever. Non-contributory parent visas, and other family visas have had their numbers slightly reduced. The good news is that the April 2018 hike to salary requirements for an Assurance of Support, which is mandatory for some visas including parent visas, has been scrapped, reverting to the old formula.

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