The Australian immigration program is facing significant uncertainty as we reach mid-August 2025. The Australian Government has not yet released the Migration Planning Levels for 2025/2026, delaying key skilled visa programs and causing stress for many applicants.

In this month’s Australian immigration update, we cover:

• Changes to English test requirements for Australian visas

• An increase in international student enrolments for 2026

• Which state is best for a National Innovation Visa nomination

• Updated visa processing times in Australia

• Delays affecting partner visa applications

At Work Visa Lawyers, we specialise in assisting individuals, families, and employers through the complex Australian visa process. Contact us if you need assistance to apply for an Australian visa.

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No Migration Planning Levels Yet – Impact on Skilled Visas

As of mid-August, the Migration Planning Level for 2025/2026 has not been announced. Without this, states and territories have not opened applications for:

• Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

• Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa

The last Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa invitation round was in November 2024.

Last year, allocations were announced in May. The only other delay of this scale occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic — but no such crisis is affecting us now.

Rather than speculating on the cause of the delay, applicants should prepare to lodge their Expression of Interest (EOI) by ensuring they have:

• A valid skills assessment (within the last 3 years)

• A valid English test result (within the last 3 years)

• Evidence of skilled work experience such as contracts and payslips

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More International Student Places in 2026

The Albanese Government has announced 295,000 international student places for 2026, an increase of 25,000 compared to 2025.

All active international education providers will receive at least the same allocation as this year.

For those planning to study in Australia:

• Choose your course carefully to align with your migration pathway

• Consider the level of study and post-study visa options such as the Subclass 485 Graduate Visa

• Ensure you meet the student visa English requirements

English Test Updates – More Accepted Tests and New Score Requirements

From 7 August 2025, there are now nine accepted English language tests for many Australian visa applications, including three new tests:

• Cambridge C1 Advanced (C1 Advanced)

• CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) – New test

• IELTS Academic, including One Skill Retake (OSR)

• IELTS General Training, including One Skill Retake (OSR)

• LanguageCert Academic – New test 

• Michigan English Test (MET), including Single Section Retake (SSR) – New test

• Occupational English Test (OET)

• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-Based Test)

New minimum score requirements for PTE Superior English:

• Listening: 69

• Reading: 70

• Writing: 85

• Speaking: 88 (this high score in Speaking may be very difficult to achieve)

IELTS has kept the minimum of 8 in each band for Superior English.

New minimum score requirements for PTE Competent English:

• Listening: 47

• Reading: 48

• Writing: 51

• Speaking: 54

IELTS still requires a minimum of 6 in each band for Competent English.

New PTE English requirement for the Graduate Visa

The PTE score needed for the Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is now lower:

• Overall: 55

• Listening: 40

• Reading: 42

• Writing: 41

• Speaking: 39

For IELTS, the minimum remains 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each band.

All these changes take effect from 7 August 2025. 
If you took a test before this date and it’s still valid, your scores would still count.

For the Graduate Visa, test results are valid if taken in the 12 months before the visa application date. For other visas, test results are valid for up to three years.

New Skills in Demand 482 Visa English Requirement 

Changes are also coming from 13 September 2025 for English requirements for the Skills in Demand 482 visa: 

Applications lodged on or after 13 September 2025 will accept Vocational level English at least IELTS 5 in each band or PTE:

• Listening: 33
• Reading: 36
• Writing: 29
• Speaking: 24

We wish all applicants the best of luck in preparing for their English language tests. For certain visas, such as the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand Visa, the English requirements have recently been lowered, making them more accessible.

However, for those seeking additional migration points for visas such as the Subclass 189, Subclass 190, or Subclass 491, the new PTE Superior English-Speaking score requirement of 88 presents a significant challenge.

With nine approved English language test options now available, it is important to select the one that best aligns with your strengths. Ensure that the test you choose is accepted for your intended visa subclass and that it allows you to achieve the maximum score required for Superior English, if that is your objective — as not all tests provide this opportunity.

Best State for National Innovation Visa Nomination

The National Innovation Visa is a direct permanent residency pathway for highly skilled and innovative individuals.

Currently, South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria are accepting nominations.

Our review of the criteria suggests:

• South Australia and New South Wales are generally easier, with transparent requirements focused on demonstrating value to the state.

• Victoria requires a referral from a Victorian Government agency — with no public process — making it more challenging.

If you have strong professional ties or collaboration plans with a state, that’s where you should apply.

We have several videos explaining the National Innovation Visa, as well as a free assessment on our website where we can check your eligibility. 

Updated Visa Processing Times in Australia

Processing times are one of the most discussed aspects of the migration process, and we understand how frustrating it can be when they become longer.

The Department of Home Affairs has recently updated its visa processing times. In the table below, you will find some of the main visa subclasses and the typical timeframes for processing.

Keep in mind that your visa may be finalised earlier than the published timeframe — particularly if your occupation is in high demand. However, it may also take longer if your case is more complex or if there are issues such as inconsistencies in your application or documentation, or health and character concerns.

Delays in Relationship Registration

To lodge a partner visa, many applicants choose to strengthen their application by registering their de facto relationship.

In South Australia, this process usually takes just over 28 days. However, current timeframes have extended to approximately two to three months due to a processing backlog.

One possible explanation for this delay is an increase in partner visa applications, potentially driven by the temporary closure of the skilled visa programs, including the Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 491.

Final Advice for Visa Applicants

While we await the Migration Planning Level announcement, skilled visa applicants should use this time to:

• Prepare their skills assessment and English test results

• Gather all required employment and qualification evidence

• Monitor program opening dates closely

• Contact an immigration lawyer or migration agent to discuss their situation

If you need advice on your Australian visa application, contact us for a consultation. Since 2011, we have assisted thousands of individuals and businesses with their migration needs.

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Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV) – Subclass 858 is designed to attract talented entrepreneurs, researchers, and business people from around the world to contribute to the country’s innovation-driven economy.

The NIV is an Australian permanent residency visa for internationally recognised individuals with exceptional talent. If the applicant receives nomination for the NIV from a state or territory, their chances of getting invited for the National Innovation Visa increase.

South Australia and New South Wales have now published their criteria for the National Innovation Visa (NIV) – Subclass 858, previously known as the Global Talent Visa.

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Why State Nomination Can Help You Secure a National Innovation Visa Invitation Faster

If a state or territory nominates you, you will have a better chance of being invited for the National Innovation Visa.

Under Ministerial Direction 112, those nominated by a state receive the second-highest priority. The highest priority is for those considered as global experts and international prize winners, such as Nobel Prize recipients.

The South Australian criteria include being able to demonstrate benefit to the South Australian economy and the ability to create jobs.

National Innovation Visa – South Australia State Nomination Criteria

South Australia is open, meaning you can apply for state nomination.

The South Australian criteria include the opportunity to provide evidence of current employment in South Australia, or a job offer with a salary at or above the Fair Work High Income Threshold (AUD).

The document checklist also includes the option of a support letter from a South Australian State Government agency referring you to submit a National Innovation Visa Registration of Interest (ROI) application.

So, having connections to South Australia is an advantage.

South Australia also rules out some types of investment activities, including cafés and restaurants, consulting firms, franchises, and buying existing businesses as these are not considered as ‘innovative’

South Australia has a Registration of Interest system (ROI). If your application progresses, you will be contacted by South Australia. 

 
Their assessment process will include a panel interview of candidates.

National Innovation Visa – New South Wales State Nomination Criteria

The New South Wales criteria focus strongly on demonstrating benefits to New South Wales.

• For the Entrepreneur Pathway – New South Wales wants "innovative and scalable business ventures with high growth potential for NSW".

• For the Investor Pathway – New South Wales wants "innovative ventures, contributing to their success and the growth of the innovative ecosystem in NSW".

New South Wales will have their own seven-stage Expression of Interest (EOI) process. 
This will include, in stage 4, New South Wales seeking independent expert endorsement.

The New South Wales Government recently gave a presentation where they explained what the NIV is not for:

• Not for passive investment

• Not part of the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)

• Not for vague or unsubstantiated ideas

Practical Considerations

For those seeking state nomination, the NIV will now be a 3-stage process:

1. State Nomination

2. Department of Home Affairs (DHA) Expression of Interest (EOI) – then, if invited

3. Visa application

Which State is Best for NIV Nomination?

The short answer: if you have a proven business track record or a collaboration lined up in a state, then that is the best state for you.

If you don’t have an existing relationship or collaboration with a state, it’s the perfect time to begin making that connection.

Complete our FREE National Innovation Visa assessment, where we can check your eligibility or contact us for more information. 

We will share more updates on the NIV soon, including the nomination allocations for the new financial year once they are  released.

Share this blog if you know someone who is highly talented and who will be a good fit for the National Innovation Visa

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Sources: 

https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/news-events/national-innovation-visa-nominations-open-high-performing-individuals

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/images/PDF/National_Innovation_Visa_Criteria_NSW.pdf

In this blog, we bring you the latest updates and key developments in Australian migration for July 2025.

We also invite you to check out our YouTube channel, where we’ve published over 300 videos and have a community of over 67,000 subscribers.

Our goal has always been to provide useful, reliable information for anyone looking to migrate to Australia. If you're considering applying for an Australian visa or seeking permanent residency, our YouTube channel is a valuable resource filled with free content to help guide you through your journey.

You’ll also find videos on specific topics such as:

• How to find an employer sponsor

• How to calculate your migration points

• What visa options are available if you’re over 45 years old

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Visa Grants

This month, we’ve had some exciting visa news and grants to celebrate, including:

• 482 employer-sponsored visas

• 189 permanent residency visa

• Partner visa

• A Global Talent visa grant

• An invitation for the National Innovation visa in the Critical Technologies Sector

New Financial Year

July marks the start of the 2025–2026 financial year, which runs until 30 June 2026.

We’ve also seen a few key changes this month, such as:

• An increase in visa application fees

• A higher minimum salary requirement for employer-sponsored visas

• Updates in Australia–US relations and how they may affect immigration

• Positive changes to the South Australian DAMA, where PR is now available after just 2 years on a 482 visa (previously 3 years)

There’s one big question that everyone is asking: 

Where are the migration numbers and visa allocations for visas like the 189, 190, 491, the National Innovation Visa, and other visas?

As of now, there’s no official timeline or guidance from the Federal Government.

Last year, the allocation was 185,000 places, and the announcement was made on 14 May 2024. However, this year, the allocations still haven’t been released — and without them, the states and territories cannot reopen for new Expressions of Interest (EOIs).

We’re hoping the announcement comes soon — and as always, we’ll keep you updated as soon as we hear more.

While you are waiting, make sure your English results and Skills Assessment have not expired — if they have, we suggest getting new ones. 

DAMA Updates

South Australia DAMA

Applicants holding a 482 visa through the DAMA can now apply for the 186 Permanent Residency after just 2 years — instead of 3 years as previously required.

This is fantastic news and will no doubt increase interest in the SA DAMA program. The DAMA program allows applicants up to 55 years old to get PR in Australia.

There are also concessions on salary, with a 10% reduction to the TSMIT, as well as English and work experience concessions.

The South Australia DAMA was also extended until 30 June 2026.

There are almost 400 occupations, including truck drivers, chefs, winery workers, child care, aged care and disability support workers, hospitality workers, and much more.

We hope the other states make the same change soon.

Please check our detailed video on our YouTube channel explaining the SA DAMA or check our South Australia DAMA page. 

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Top 10 Occupations for DAMA – from Vetassess

Vetassess has released the 10 most common DAMA occupations that apply for skills assessment. The occupations are:

• Truck Driver

• Aged or Disabled Carer

• Retail Supervisor

• Waiter

• Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator

• Fruit Farm Worker

• Barista

• Accounts Clerk

• Café or Restaurant Supervisor

• Forklift Driver

Far North Queensland DAMA

VETASSESS has been confirmed as the Skills Assessing Authority for many DAMA occupations, including:

• Beef Cattle Farm Worker

• Pharmacy Sales Assistant

• Swimming Pool Technician

• Taxi Driver

• And many other occupations

Massive Rise in People from the US Wanting to Move to Australia

An increasing number of Australians are returning home from the US, leaving high-paying tech and science jobs due to job insecurity, burnout, and cuts under Donald Trump’s administration — particularly to DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) and science funding.

At the same time, American professionals — especially in software engineering, data, and product roles — are actively seeking work in Australia, drawn by its lifestyle and more stable work environment.

Recruiters report a 350% increase in US applicants this year, with some candidates willing to accept pay cuts of up to $600,000.

We’ve never had so many people from the US looking to move to Australia — either skilled individuals or Australian citizens partnered with US citizens who are now looking to relocate from the US.

Key reasons for the exodus include:

• Mass layoffs in US tech companies

• Trump-era cuts to DEI and science agencies

• Harsh work culture and fears over AI replacing jobs

• Tougher US immigration policies

If you need assistance to apply for an Australian visa or to discuss your visa options, please book an appointment with one of our lawyer or registered migration agents. 

Rise in the Income Threshold

• The Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) and the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) increased from $73,150 to $76,515. This applies to the 482, 186, and 494 visas.

• The Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) increased from $135,000 to $141,210, applying to the Specialist Skills stream of the Skills in Demand 482 visa.

• The High-Income Threshold increased from $175,000 to $183,100. 
  This threshold is one of the factors that may be used to assess the applicant's exceptional and outstanding achievements for the National Innovation Visa program.

Visa Fees Increased

Most visa fees increased by around 3%, while the Student Visa fee had a significant increase of 25%, from $1,600 to $2,000. 
 
Appeals fees also increased by approximately 3%.

National Innovation Visa - South Australia State Nomination is open

Registrations of Interest (ROI) for South Australian nomination under the Subclass 858 National Innovation Visa are now open. 
Nomination is available to applicants both in Australia and offshore.

We offer a free National Innovation Visa eligibility assessment to help you find out if you qualify.

Kanye West’s Visa Cancelled

The Department of Home Affairs recently cancelled Kanye West’s Australian visa.

The reason for the cancellation is that the American rapper released a song called Heil Hitler — referencing Hitler and promoting Nazism.

West is currently married to Bianca Censori, an Australian citizen from Melbourne. 
So, the visa is likely to have been a visitor visa, allowing him to visit his wife’s family in Australia.

There are powers to cancel visas under the Migration Act, including s116(1)(e) and s501.

We predicted this might happen to Kanye West — back in 2022 in an article we published in relation to the cancellation of tennis superstar Djokovic’s visa.

If you hold an Australian visa and have social media — be careful what you post on it. 

Climate Change Visa for Tuvalu

Nearly one-third of Tuvalu's population — a country island located in the Pacific Ocean — has applied for a new climate visa to live in Australia, as rising sea levels threaten the island nation.

Under a groundbreaking agreement, Australia is offering 280 visas per year to Tuvalu citizens. Over 3,000 people have already entered the ballot.

Scientists warn Tuvalu may become uninhabitable within 80 years, with two of its nine atolls already mostly submerged.

Those were the main updates in Australian immigration for July 2025.

If you need any assistance in applying for an Australian visa, please book an appointment to discuss your situation. We have been helping individuals and businesses since 2011 to obtain Australian visas, permanent residency, and citizenship.

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The Northern Territory is an attractive destination for many tourists due to its iconic locations including Uluru and Kakadu National Park, its Indigenous art and cultures, the saltwater crocodiles, and its one-million-dollar barramundi fishing prize.

But for migrants, the opportunity to apply for the Nothern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA) is the biggest attraction, offering the prize of Australian Permanent Residency.

If you're exploring visa pathways to live and work in Australia—especially if you're aged between 45 and 55—the Northern Territory DAMA (NT DAMA) might be your best route to permanent residency.

In this blog, we will talk about the Northern Territory DAMA, which is a powerful migration option for skilled and semi-skilled workers.

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What is the Northern Territory DAMA?

The Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement, or Northern Territory DAMA, is a formal labour agreement between the Australian Government and the Northern Territory Government. It enables local employers to sponsor overseas workers to fill critical labour shortages under more flexible rules than standard employer-sponsored visas.
The entire Northern Territory is covered under one DAMA, which makes the process more streamlined.

Important update on the Northern Territory DAMA program

The agreement between the Northern Territory and Australian government for the NT DAMA II program expired on 13 December 2024.
A new Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (Northern Territory DAMA III) was executed between the Northern Territory and Australian governments on 19 March 2025.
The online application portal is open for new endorsement applications under NT DAMA III.

Why is NT DAMA Important?

There are significant workforce shortages across industries like:

• Health and aged care
• Agriculture and farming
• Hospitality and tourism
• Building and construction
• Transport and logistics
• Engineering and community services

The NT DAMA helps regional employers hire international talent when suitable candidates cannot be sourced locally.
So, the NT DAMA can help employers fill staff shortages.

NT additional occupations not in ANZSCO

The NT DAMA is unique in that it provides access to some occupations not in the ANZSCO. These are:

• Bar attendant (supervisor)
• Civil construction site supervisor
• Cook (specialist ethnic cuisine)
• Electrical motor repairer or winder
• High access maintenance and cleaning technician
• Hospitality worker
• Skilled horticultural worker
• Waiter (supervisor)

So, this is good if you work in one of those occupations in the Northern Territory.
You can check the NT DAMA occupation list on the NT DAMA website to see if your occupation is on the list.

Who Can Apply Under NT DAMA?

To be eligible for a DAMA visa in the Northern Territory, you must:

• Work in an eligible occupation on the NT DAMA III occupation list
• Have a valid job offer from a Northern Territory employer
• Meet the required skills and qualifications (with concessions available)
• Meet the English and salary requirements, which are more flexible under DAMA

Visa Options Under the NT DAMA

The NT DAMA provides access to several employer-sponsored visa pathways:

• Up to 4-year Skills in Demand 482 visa – with a PR pathway through the DAMA 186 visa
• 5-year Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) 494 visa with a PR pathway through the 191 visa
• Permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa (for those eligible for the permanent residence pathway).

The NT DAMA occupations list may be reviewed and updated annually by agreement between the NT Government and the Australian Government.
The annual review is informed by:

• The NT Skilled Occupations Priority List, which is used as a base from which the NT DAMA occupations list is developed
• Other labour market information including submissions received from industry peak bodies

Northern Territory DAMA Concessions

The DAMA offers several key concessions that make it more accessible than standard visa streams:

• Age: In many cases, workers can apply up to age 55
• Salary: The NT DAMA provides a concession to the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) for all available occupations where the NT market rate is below the CSIT. If a concession is sought, employers must demonstrate that sponsored overseas workers under the NT DAMA will be paid at least 85% of the CSIT (from 1 July 2025, $65,037) or the market salary rate (whichever is higher)
• English: Reduced English language requirements apply to certain occupations

Common Occupations in Demand (NT DAMA)

The NT DAMA supports a wide range of roles, such as:

• Disability and aged care workers
• Child care educators
• Hospitality staff (chefs, cooks, restaurant managers for the 494 visa)
• Truck drivers
• Horticultural labourers
• IT support professionals
• Engineers and draftspersons
• Nurses over 45 and up to 55 years old

How Do You Apply for a DAMA Visa in the NT?

The application process involves several steps:

1. Secure a job offer from an approved employer in the Northern Territory
2. The employer must apply for endorsement from the NT Government
3. If endorsed, the employer enters into a Labour Agreement with the Australian Government
4. Then, the worker is nominated and applies for a visa with the Department of Home Affairs

Why Choose NT DAMA?

The Northern Territory DAMA is a fantastic option for migrants who want to live and work in regional Australia. It offers:

• A clear pathway to permanent residency
• Greater flexibility on age, English, salary, and experience
• Opportunities in sectors with genuine labour shortages
• Lower cost of living and strong community support in regional areas

DAMAs in Australia

There are many other DAMA regions across Australia, including:

• All of Western Australia (Western Australia DAMA)
• All of South Australia (South Australia DAMA)
• Much of New South Wales through the Orana DAMA
• Parts of Victoria
• Parts of Queensland

Let’s hope Tasmania and the ACT join the DAMA soon as well.

If you're interested in applying through the NT DAMA or any other DAMA region, book a consultation with us to explore your options.

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Sources: 

https://dtbar.nt.gov.au/workforce-population/northern-territory-designated-area-migration-agreement

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/employing-and-sponsoring-someone/sponsoring-workers/nominating-a-position/labour-agreements/designated-area-migration-agreements

There is important news for skilled migrants and employers in South Australia. The Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs) for both Adelaide metropolitan and regional South Australia have been extended until 30 June 2026, providing continued access to skilled workers across key industries facing shortages.

This extension comes with several ongoing benefits and one major update: a faster pathway to permanent residency (PR) for holders of the Skills in Demand (SID) 482 visa under the DAMA. 

Extension to 30 June 2026

Both South Australian DAMAs have officially been extended through to mid-2026. This extension gives certainty to employers and migrants alike, supporting economic growth and regional development through skilled migration.

482 to 186 PR Pathway in 2 Years

One of the most significant updates is the reduction in the required period for PR application. Holders of the 482 visa through DAMA can now apply for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) subclass 186 visa after only two years on their 482 visa.

Previously, applicants were required to wait three years. This change provides a faster and more appealing path to permanent residency for skilled migrants working in South Australia.

DAMA Concessions

South Australia continues to offer important concessions through the DAMA program, making it more accessible than standard employer-sponsored visas. Depending on the occupation, these can include:

• Age concession: Applicants can be up to 55 years old

• Income concession: A 10% reduction on the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)

• English language concessions for certain occupations

• Work experience concessions, depending on the role

These flexibilities provide greater opportunities for both employers seeking to fill skill gaps and workers hoping to settle in Australia.

Industry Labour Agreements Take Priority

Starting from 1 July 2025, occupations listed under specific Industry Labour Agreements (ILAs) will no longer be available under the South Australian DAMA if they are already covered by the relevant ILA.

For example, aged care providers will no longer be able to sponsor certain workers under the DAMA and must instead use the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement (ACILA) or alternative programs such as the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.

Employers must ensure they are using the correct migration program based on their sector and the occupation they intend to sponsor.

A New Five-Year Statewide DAMA

The South Australian Government has announced its intention to negotiate a new five-year statewide DAMA with the Commonwealth Government during the 2025–26 financial year. This would continue the state’s proactive approach to attracting skilled workers and meeting local workforce needs.

Need Assistance with a DAMA Application?

If you are:

• An employer in South Australia experiencing skill shortages

• A skilled worker seeking a pathway to work and live in South Australia

The DAMA program may be an ideal solution. At Work Visa Lawyers, we assist both employers and individuals with:

• DAMA endorsement applications

• Labour agreements, including Industry Labour Agreements

• Employer nominations

• Subclass 482 visa, 494 visa, and 186 visa applications

• Permanent residency pathways under DAMA concessions

Book a consultation with our team to explore your options with confidence.

Located in Adelaide and assisting clients across Australia and internationally.

Sources: 

https://www.migration.sa.gov.au/news-events/designated-area-migration-agreements-damas-extension

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/employing-and-sponsoring-someone/sponsoring-workers/nominating-a-position/labour-agreements/designated-area-migration-agreements

If you're planning to migrate to Australia under a skilled visa, one of the most important steps is to get your skills assessed by an approved authority. For many general professional occupations, that authority is VETASSESS. This blog will walk you through the process in a simple, easy-to-follow format to help you prepare, apply, and succeed in your skills assessment.

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What Is VETASSESS?

VETASSESS (Vocational Education and Training Assessment Services) is a leading skills assessment authority appointed by the Australian Government to assess the qualifications and work experience of applicants applying for skilled migration.

If your occupation falls into categories like business, education, arts, science, or administration, chances are that VETASSESS is your assessing body.

Step-by-Step Guide to VETASSESS Skills Assessment

1. Check Your Occupation Requirements

Before anything else, visit the VETASSESS website and look up your ANZSCO occupation code and title. This page will tell you:

• What qualification level is required.
• What fields of study are considered closely related.
• How much and what type of work experience you need.

Each occupation is grouped into a category (A, B, C, D, or E), which influences how your qualifications and work history are assessed.

2. Make Sure You’re Eligible

You generally need:

• A qualification at least equivalent to an Australian Diploma or higher.
• At least 1 year of full-time post-qualification experience in the past 5 years.
• Evidence that your work was paid and highly relevant to your nominated occupation.

3. Gather Your Documents

Here’s what you need to prepare:

Educational Documents:

• Degree or diploma certificates
• Full academic transcripts

Employment Documents:

• Detailed employment references (on company letterhead)
• Payslips, tax documents, or bank statements
• Job descriptions or contracts

Identity Documents:

• Passport (bio page)
• Change of name documentation (if applicable)

If any documents are not in English, provide certified translations.

4. Choose the Right Assessment Type

VETASSESS offers two broad types of assessments:

• General Occupations: Includes professions like marketing specialists, HR advisers, and policy analysts.
• Trade Occupations: Includes electricians, cooks, hairdressers, etc.

Make sure you select the correct category that applies to your nominated occupation.

5. Create an Online Account

Go to the VETASSESS website and register for an account. Once registered, log in to start your application.

6. Submit Your Application

• Complete all sections of the online form.
• Upload your scanned documents.
• Pay the application fee (from AUD $968 and up, depending on assessment type and urgency).

7. Wait for the Outcome

The standard processing time is usually 12 to 14 weeks. If you're in a hurry, you can pay an extra fee and opt for Priority Processing, which takes around 7–10 business days.

Once processed, you’ll receive an Outcome Letter that says whether your assessment is:

• Positive – your skills meet the Australian standards.
• Negative – your application didn’t meet the criteria (they will tell you why).

8. What Happens After a Positive Assessment?

With a positive outcome in hand, you’re ready to:

• Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) in SkillSelect.
• Apply for a skilled migration visa (e.g., subclass 189 visa, 190 visa, or 491 visa).

Tips for Success

• Always follow the official document checklist for your occupation.
• Ensure all employment letters include the start/end dates, position title, duties, and hours worked.
• Double-check translations and certification for non-English documents.
• If you’re unsure, consult a registered migration agent or lawyer.

The VETASSESS skills assessment is a critical step on your migration journey to Australia. With proper preparation, thorough documentation, and a clear understanding of the process, you can submit a strong application that gets results.

Ready to get started? Head over to the VETASSESS portal and begin your assessment journey today! If you need any help, we can assist you with your Skills Assessment. 

Please contact us if you need assistance. 

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Source: 

https://www.vetassess.com.au/

Kanye West’s Australian Visa Cancelled

The Department of Home Affairs recently cancelled Kanye West’s Australian visa.

The reason for the cancellation is that the American rapper released a song referencing Hitler and promoting Nazism. He has also posted content on his social media accounts supporting Nazi ideology.

The song, released in May this year, was removed from most major music platforms shortly after publication.

This is not the first time Australia has considered blocking West. In 2023, Education Minister Jason Clare condemned West’s “awful” comments about Hitler and the Holocaust and suggested he could be denied entry.

The Minister for Immigration Tony Burke has made the following comments:

to ABC's Afternoon Briefing:

"He's made a lot of offensive comments that my officials looked at again once he released [that] song," he said.

"He's got family here … It wasn't a visa for the purpose of concerts. It was a lower-level [visa] and the officials still looked at the law and said if you're going to have a song and promote that sort of Nazism, we don't need that in Australia."

Kanye West’s Australian Family Connections:

West is currently married to Bianca Censori, an Australian citizen from Melbourne.

So the visa is likely to be a visitor visa, to allow visits to his wife’s family in Australia.

The Power to Cancel under the Migration Act include s116(1)(e) and s501

Under s116(1)(e) of the Migration Act the Minister for Immigration has wide powers, often referred to as God powers.

They can cancel a visa if:

“the presence of its holder in Australia is or may be, or would or might be, a risk to:

(i)  the health, safety or good order of the Australian community or a segment of the Australian community; or

(ii)  the health or safety of an individual or individuals; or “

There are also wide powers under s501 part (2) and (3) to refuse and cancel visas if based on not satifiying the character test.

These include:

501(6)  For the purposes of this section, a person does not pass the character test if:

(iii)  vilify a segment of the Australian community; or 

(iv)  incite discord in the Australian community or in a segment of that community; or 

(v)  represent a danger to the Australian community or to a segment of that community, whether by way of being liable to become involved in activities that are disruptive to, or in violence threatening harm to, that community or segment, or in any other way; or 

The song Heil Hitler could be seen to vilify parts of the Australian community, incite discord and to encourage disruptive and violent activities to a community.

We Predicted this Might Happen to Kanye West – back in 2022:

In an article we published in 2022 in relation to the cancellation of Tennis superstar Djokovic’s visa, we made the following observations.

And we included pictures of Kanye West and also of Greta Thunberg.

If you hold an Australian visa and have social media – be careful:

So, be careful what you publish on social media and other platforms.

The cancellation powers could be applied to you. Your visa could be cancelled if your posts could be seen to be a risk to a community in Australia or to encourage disruptive activities or violence. Australia is not the only country that may check your online activity. For example, the United States requires social media information when you apply for a visa — and they may review it.

Background Requirements

The Department of Home Affairs requires police clearances from any countries in which the person (aged 17 or older) has spent 12 months or more in the last 10 years since turning 16 years old.

For those who have recently lived in many countries, this can mean collecting a few police clearances, while for other people who have lived only in their home country may require less.

How to apply for a police check

Step 1 – figure out which countries you need

When you put together where you are travelling

Step 2 – Go to the Department of Home Affairs web page https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/contact-us/offices-and-locations/list

Step 3 - Search the name of the country for which you are looking for police clearance guidance in the box.

Step 4 – Click details to expand the “Police clearance” tab

Step 5 – Click “View more” to expand for the actual guidance (the information available at first is very limited)

Step 6 – Identify the section that applies to you

Many countries have different processes for citizens and non-citizens, and different processes for applying from in the country or from outside the country.

Our top tips for applying for police clearances:

• Some countries take longer than others, be sure to plan ahead – delays in police clearances can often delay a decision on your visa
• Be careful selecting third parties – in some countries, third parties are necessary to obtain your police clearance, while in Australia often using a third party can lead to getting the wrong police clearance and needing to apply again
• Ensure you get all the clearances you need – for many countries, such as Brazil or the United States, you would need to get more than one police clearance: usually a federal and a state police clearance

Contact us if you need any visa assistance. 

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We’ve recently seen a growing number of inquiries about 188 Business Innovation and Investment visa extensions. This trend is largely due to disruptions caused by COVID-19, which delayed business development and made it harder for some visa holders to meet the criteria for the 888 Permanent Residency visa.

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What is a 188 Business Visa Extension?

A 188 Business visa extension allows eligible holders of the Business Innovation stream to extend their stay in Australia. This additional time gives them the opportunity to meet the requirements for the subclass 888 visa, which is the permanent residency pathway.

Why Might You Need a 188 Visa Extension?

Many applicants request an extension because they haven’t yet met the 888 visa criteria, such as business turnover, asset requirements, or operational timelines. An extension gives them the time they need to continue growing and managing their Australian business.

Who Can Apply for a 188 Business Visa Extension?

You may be eligible to apply if you:

• Hold a subclass 188 Business Innovation stream visa
• Are actively managing a business in Australia
• Have a main ownership interest in one or two Australian businesses
• Maintain daily involvement in the business operations

What’s Involved in the Extension Process?

The extension process involves two key stages:

1. State Nomination – You must first obtain nomination from the relevant state or territory government.
2. Visa Application – Once nominated, you can lodge your extension application with the Department of Home Affairs.

Key Requirements for the 188 Visa Extension

• You must hold a valid 188 Business visa
• Reside in Australia and be actively managing your business
• Demonstrate continued business activity and growth
• Provide strong supporting evidence of business operations
• Secure state or territory nomination before applying

Who Typically Applies?

We’ve recently helped clients from Vietnam, China, and Bangladesh successfully extend their 188 Business visas. These extensions have allowed them to remain in Australia while continuing to build their businesses toward permanent residency.

See below for some examples of when a business can request a 188 visa extension:

Small Business Owner needing to increase turnover:

Need Help with a 188 Business Visa Extension?

If you or someone you know needs to extend their 188 Business visa, don’t wait until the last minute. Early preparation is essential to ensure a smooth process.

Contact our team today for tailored advice and support with your extension and your pathway to permanent residency.

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From 1 July 2025, income thresholds for skilled visas will increase by 4.6%, in line with updates to the Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE). These changes deliver on commitments outlined in the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy and reflect recommendations from the Migration Review.

This annual indexation ensures that wages for skilled migrants grow in step with Australian earnings—helping to prevent skilled migration from being used to undercut local workers.

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Updated Income Thresholds (Effective 1 July 2025)

Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT)

• Current: $73,150

• New CSIT (from 1 July 2025): $76,515

• Applies to nomination applications for the Core Skills stream of the Skills in Demand (subclass 482 Visa) and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visas.

Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT)

• Current: $135,000

• New SSIT (from 1 July 2025): $141,210

• Applies to the Specialist Skills stream of the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482 Visa).

Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)

• Current: $73,150

• New TSMIT (from 1 July 2025): $76,515

• Applies to the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494 Visa).

Important Note:

For nomination applications lodged on or after 1 July 2025, employers must offer a salary that meets or exceeds the new threshold or the annual market salary rate —whichever is higher.

These changes do not apply to:

• Existing visa holders, or

• Nominations lodged before 1 July 2025.

High Income Threshold Updates

The High Income Threshold will also raise from 1 July 2025:

• Current: $175,000

• New High Income Threshold (from 1 July 2025): $183,100

The High Income Threshold is one of the factors that may be used to assess the applicant's exceptional and outstanding achievements.

The High Income Threshold may also be used if the applicant for sc-186 Visa - Temporary Residence Transition stream is over 45 years old and claiming for an age exemption.

Contact our team at Work Visa Lawyers for tailored advice and assistance.

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Sources: 

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article?itemId=1308

https://www.fwc.gov.au/about-us/news-and-media/news/increase-application-fee-2025-26