491/189 visas: SkillSelect EOI invitation numbers fall off a cliff to 100…no surprises why

491/189 visas: SkillSelect EOI invitation numbers fall off a cliff to 100…no surprises why

The number of invitations issued for Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent visas and Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visas sponsored by an eligible relative dropped to only 100 invitations in total for April 2020. Reasons why and a brief history of recent skilled migration reforms are provided.

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COVID-19: 408 visa to the rescue for temporary visa holders stuck in Australia

COVID-19: 408 visa to the rescue for temporary visa holders stuck in Australia

Last updated: 8 January 2021

The legislative instrument that classifies the COVID-19 as an Australian Government endorsed event was registered yesterday. Just who can (or rather should apply) for this visa appears more of a circumstance created under policy than fact.

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COVID-19: Temporary workers to access super early; WHMs to self-isolate and register before regional work; 457/482 workers to be allowed to work part-time for sponsor

COVID-19: Temporary workers to access super early; WHMs to self-isolate and register before regional work; 457/482 workers to be allowed to work part-time for sponsor

Major temporary changes were announced yesterday to a raft of visa programs to support critical industries that may be affected during the coronavirus pandemic and temporary visa holders in Australia. This includes early access to superannuation for all temporary visa holders, exemptions to the 6-month work limitation for working holiday makers in some sectors and the possibility of renewal should their visa expire in the next six months, and the ability for sponsored workers to work part-time.

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