1 July 2017 changes

VAC increase for all visas

All current VACs will be indexed annually in line with the forecast Consumer Price Index and rounded to the nearest $5. Indexation applies only to the 1st instalment component of the VAC, for both primary and secondary applicants. Indexation does not apply to 2nd instalment VACs VAC prices from 1 July 2017.

Skilled Migration Visas

Subclass 189 – maximum age lowered: Lowers the upper age limit at invitation for Subclass 189 Skilled Independent, Points Tested stream applicants to 45 years old

189 NZ visa stream

A new permanent visa stream for specified New Zealand citizens who meet the regulatory requirements, to be granted Australian permanent residency 45 year old age limit does not apply to NZ stream applicants.
NZ Citizens Income Threshold and Exemptions for subclass 189:
Completed income year Minimum amount of income

Exemptions for 189 NZ visa stream for those primary NZ applicants in the following situations:
The primary applicant must hold a Subclass 444 Special Category visa and have been unable to meet the income requirement for any period during the 5 years immediately before making an application, because:

• an Australian Authority (Family Court of Australia) has placed restrictions on the applicant removing a child in their primary care from Australia;
• the primary applicant was receiving compensation for an injury which prevented them from earning at or above the income threshold and the compensation and/or ongoing rehabilitation would be discontinued if they returned to NZ;
• the primary applicant was on an approved period of parental or carer’s leave from their usual employment and prior to that leave had an annual income no less than the threshold and when resuming employment have an earning income no less than the threshold;

Employer Nominated and Regional Sponosored Migration Schemes (MIA Skilled occupation lists and other changes)

Occupations lists: The STSOL will be further reviewed based on advice from the Department of Employment. The MLTSSL will be revised based on outcomes from the Department of Education and Training’s 2017-18 SOL review
English language requirements: All applicants require Competent English score of IELTS score of 6 (or equivalent) in each component for both Temporary Residence Transition and Direct Entry
Age: A maximum age requirement of 45 at the time of application will apply to Direct Entry stream applicants. A maximum age requirement of 50 at the time of application will continue to apply to Temporary Residence Transition stream applicants