Greater Flexibility and Support for Temporary Migrants
From 1 July 2024, significant changes will be introduced to visa conditions 8107, 8607, and 8608 as part of the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy. These changes aim to combat worker exploitation and enhance productivity, providing greater support and flexibility for temporary migrants holding specific visas.
The improvements target the labour market mobility of temporary migrants with the following visas:
– Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457)
– Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
– Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494)
Key Changes to Visa Conditions
Extended Time to Secure New Employment
Visa holders who cease working with their sponsoring employer will now have more time to find a new sponsor, apply for a different visa, or arrange to leave Australia. The new conditions allow:
– 180 days at a time, or
– A maximum of 365 days in total across the entire visa grant period.
During this period, visa holders can work for other employers, including in occupations not listed in their most recently approved sponsorship nomination. This change ensures that visa holders can support themselves financially while searching for a new sponsor.
Restrictions and Responsibilities
It’s important to note that unless exempt, a visa holder cannot work for another employer unless they have ceased working with their sponsoring employer. While employed with their current sponsor, visa holders must remain in their nominated occupation.
Sponsors are still required to notify the Department of any changes in circumstances within 28 days, including the cessation of sponsorship or if a visa holder resigns. For more detailed information, please refer to “Sponsorship obligations for Standard business sponsors”.
Visa holders must also ensure that any work they undertake aligns with the licensing or registration requirements necessary for their nominated occupation. This includes adhering to any specific conditions or requirements tied to their professional qualifications.
Applicability of Changes
These changes apply to both existing visa holders and those granted visas on or after 1 July 2024. Any periods during which a visa holder stopped working for their sponsor before this date will not count towards the new time periods outlined above.
This update represents a positive shift towards greater flexibility and support for temporary migrants in Australia. By providing additional time to secure new employment, the changes help to protect workers and enhance their ability to contribute to Australia’s economy.
At Migration Guru, we are committed to guiding you through these changes and ensuring you understand how they impact your situation. Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. Readers are encouraged to follow us on Facebook for all the updates.