The world is changing quickly and to keep up with it, we have some updates for you on the Global Talent Independent visa.
If you think you are eligible to apply for a GTI, take only 5 minutes to complete our free online GTI assessment form.
Our lawyers and registered migration agents will assess your eligibility and get back to you.
Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa
Effects of Coronavirus on GTI visa
Processing Times for Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent Independent program has been held up as the fastest way to get a permanent visa in Australia. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are seeing the Expression of Interest processing times slowing down for some applicants. This seems to be especially the case for applicants who are applying from outside of Australia.
This may be due to the Department prioritising Global Talents who are already inside Australia.
What impacts Global Talent visa processing times?
There are a number of factors which might be contributing to current processing times.
The Department's priorities for global talent visa processing are set out in Direction No. 85.
This specifies that for distinguished talent applications, they are to be considered in the following order:
- Priority 1 (the following are equal in priority):
- You have an Australian job offer paying higher than the $158,500 Fair Work High Income Threshold, or
- You are currently earning more than the $158,500 Fair Work High Income Threshold
- You can show that you are likely to attract a salary greater than the $158,500 Fair Work High Income Threshold
- Priority 2:
- All other distinguished talent applications
The Department has indicated in its information that "likely to attract" can be shown in a number of ways, including through high grades (80% or higher) in a recent higher level qualification (Honours, Masters, PhD).
Priority for Hong Kong Candidates?
In its announcements to support Hong Kong SAR passport-holders, the Department has included references to the Global Talent Independent visa. It seems that the Department of Home Affairs will be prioritising GTI visa applications (even more so than the normal priority given to GTI) for Hong Kong SAR passport-holders.
Australian Computer Society (ACS) Nominations
We are still waiting on further information from the ACS regarding their nomination process.
We have recently been updated that ACS will nominate those who have been invited through the Expression of Interest process.
If you are looking to be nominated by ACS under one of their target sectors, read more about the process by clicking here.
We look forward to having further updates on this soon.
How can Work Visa Lawyers help?
Work Visa Lawyers can help you with all steps in the Global Talent Independent visa application process, including with applications for nomination from the ACS.
Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.
Contact us on (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Book an appointment with one of our experienced Immigration Lawyers and Registered Migration Agents here.
Sources
- https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/global-talent-independent-visa-video.html
- https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/services/global-talent-distinguished-talent-visas.html
- https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/why-the-australian-global-talent-independent-visa-is-so-hot-right-now.html
- https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/acs-nomination-global-talent-visa.html
- https://www.sbs.com.au/news/how-a-little-known-visa-program-could-be-the-answer-for-hongkongers-hoping-to-move-to-australia
