Migration news & updates

Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

New South Wales Unveils Game-Changing National Innovation Visa Program

New South Wales (NSW) has just announced transformative updates to its skilled migration program, including the highly anticipated NSW Innovation Visa and a comprehensive new Skills Plan for 2024–28. Here’s what these changes mean for skilled professionals, innovators, and anyone considering migration to Australia.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Balancing Study and Work in Australia: What International Students Need to Know

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students, and for good reason. With its prestigious universities, vibrant cities, and high quality of life, it offers a well-rounded study experience. But for many students, part of that experience also includes working. Whether it's to support yourself financially or gain relevant experience, working while studying can be incredibly valuable, as long as you understand the rules.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Skilled Visa Income Thresholds Set to Rise from 1 July 2025

If you're planning to migrate to Australia or aiming for permanent residency (PR), staying updated on visa changes is crucial. One major change coming your way is the annual increase in skilled visa income thresholds from 1 July 2025—a move that will impact many skilled workers and employers across the country.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

How Labor's 2025 Election Victory is Good News for Migrants

The 2025 Australian federal election is a game-changer for anyone planning to live, work, or study in Australia. With Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Labor Party securing a second term, the nation’s immigration landscape is set to continue evolving. But what does this mean for aspiring migrants, international students, skilled workers, and employers?

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Australia’s New Golden Visa? Queensland’s 858 NIV Leak Reveals All

Queensland just made an accidental—but groundbreaking—leak: details of its National Innovation Visa (858 NIV), a premium pathway for high-skilled entrepreneurs, investors, and elite creatives. Though swiftly retracted, the reveal confirms Queensland is aggressively positioning itself as Australia’s top destination for global talent.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

No 3-Year Residency Requirement? Subclass 191 Visa Rule Clarified

In this week’s immigration update, we cover two major developments. The Department of Home Affairs has clarified eligibility requirements for the Subclass 191 visa (Regional Provisional stream), and the Victorian Government has closed its 2024–25 skilled visa nomination program after reaching its allocation cap.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

South Australia Expands DAMA and Permanent Residency Options

The South Australian Government has announced key updates to its Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs), following the Australian Government’s first annual review. These changes expand permanent residency (PR) options and make it easier for skilled migrants to live and work in South Australia.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

New Opportunities to Work and Live in Australia this 2025

Australia’s immigration system is always evolving, and 2025 has brought some major updates. From the launch of the Northern Territory’s DAMA III to South Australia's new skilled migration support program, and a rise in citizenship application fees—these changes affect skilled workers, employers, and future citizens alike.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Skilled Visa Income Thresholds to Increase from 1 July 2025: What You Need to Know

Australia is set to implement a 4.6% increase in skilled visa income thresholds starting 1 July 2025. This adjustment aligns with the annual Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE) and reflects the government’s commitment to fair pay practices under the Migration Strategy. The changes ensure that skilled migration does not undercut Australian workers, maintaining parity between local and migrant wages.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

How the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) Impacts the Skills in Demand Visa and ENS 186 Visa Applications

The Australian government has released its updated Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL), identifying 456 occupations eligible for skilled migration under the new Skills in Demand Visa. The list covers roles across key sectors, including construction, healthcare, cybersecurity, education, and agriculture. Occupations range from carpenters and electricians to psychologists and software engineers, reflecting an effort to target skills where Australia faces critical shortages.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Australia's New Skills in Demand Visa - A Gateway for International Graduates

Australia introduced the Skills in Demand (SID) visa, effective 7 December 2024, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa. This initiative addresses labour shortages by attracting skilled professionals across various sectors. This visa also offers a promising pathway for recent graduates and international students to establish their careers in Australia.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Big Changes in Australian Immigration: Visa Fee Reductions & Job Opportunities

As Australia continues to refine its immigration policies, several important updates are set to impact students, skilled migrants, and healthcare professionals. Additionally, the demand for healthcare professionals is on the rise, with emerging roles offering promising visa pathways. Read on to explore the latest updates and how they may benefit you.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Core Skills Stream: Your Gateway to Jobs & Permanent Residency in Australia

Australia’s Skills in Demand Visa is a game-changer for skilled workers seeking stable employment and long-term residency opportunities. The visa, replacing the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482), offers more flexibility in job changes and direct pathways to permanent residency. Within this visa framework, the Core Skills Stream presents significant opportunities for essential skilled workers to contribute to Australia’s growing economy while securing their future.

Read More
Mayvis Goh Mayvis Goh

Australian Skilled Migration Updates: NT Suspends GSM Applications & NSW Closes Subclass 491 Pathway 1

Australia’s skilled migration landscape is undergoing significant changes, with two major updates affecting prospective migrants. The Northern Territory (NT) Government has suspended new applications for the 2024–2025 General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, while New South Wales (NSW) has officially closed Subclass 491 Pathway 1 for the current program year. However, invitations for Subclass 491 Pathway 2 have now commenced, offering an alternative route for eligible candidates.

Read More
Skilled Visa, Student Visa Mayvis Goh Skilled Visa, Student Visa Mayvis Goh

How Australian Immigration is Changing in 2025: What Migrants Need to Know

As Australia enters 2025, its immigration policies continue to evolve following significant reforms introduced in 2024. These changes reflect the government’s aim to address temporary visa loopholes, improve skilled migration strategies, and align the immigration system with the country’s economic and social priorities. Here’s a detailed look at the key changes migrants can expect this year.

Read More