PMA - Point Migration Agency

Summary of 1 July 2023 Australian Visa Updates

June 14, 2023 by PMA

Stay updated on recent changes to Australia’s skilled migration program. This summary provides insights into modifications made to immigration regulations, including the fast-tracking of the Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement, increase in visa application charges, changes to Australian citizenship eligibility for New Zealand citizens, visa implications for SCV holders, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) increase, expanded pathways to permanent residence, and work limitations for student visas.

Upcoming Australian DHA Immigration Visa Fee Increases 2023

June 14, 2023May 31, 2023 by PMA

The Department of Home Affairs has decided to raise the Visa Application Charges (VACs) by varying percentages, depending on the visa subclass. The changes will take effect from 1st July 2023 onwards.

Successfully Navigating the Australian Partner Visa Process: A Guide for Prospective Migrants

May 10, 2023May 10, 2023 by PMA

Need help with your Australian Partner Visa application? Our guide offers tips on navigating the process and increasing your chances of success, from understanding the requirements to gathering documents and working with an experienced migration lawyer.

News: Upcoming Updates to Australian Visas for 2023 – 2024

May 5, 2023 by PMA

The Australian migration system is undergoing a major overhaul, with 38 reform directions delivered following a scathing review. Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil has already announced several changes, including a citizenship pathway for New Zealanders and a new visa for Pacific migrants. Other changes include modifications to student visas and Working Holiday Maker visas, a minimum salary increase, and a review of the points system for selecting migrants.

Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) update: COVID-19 Pandemic event

January 21, 2021April 9, 2020 by PMA

Temporary Activity (subclass 408) COVID-19 Pandemic event visa

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) announced on the 5th April 2020 updates to the Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408), in response to the current coronavirus COVID-19 Pandemic.

Skilled Visa updates: New Subclass 491, 494 and 191 Skilled Regional Visas

January 21, 2021November 29, 2019 by PMA

As of the 16th November 2019, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has replaced two previously existing regional skilled migration visas with two new subclasses, with a third to come in November 2022. Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa Subclass 491 replaces Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489). This is a points tested visa which will … Read more

Understanding the Skilled Occupation Lists (SOL) for Australian Visas 2019 – 2020 (Updated)

January 21, 2021June 26, 2019 by PMA

Skilled Occupations List for Australian Visas 2018 2019

The approved occupations included on the Skilled Occupation List are regularly reviewed by the Department of Jobs and Small Business, to ensure that they are relevant to the needs of the Australian labour market. The latest update to this list was on 18th March 2018, which also coincided with the introduction of the new Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa Subclass 482, which replaced the previous Subclass 457 Visa.

Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA)

January 21, 2021June 26, 2019 by PMA

The introduction of the new Subclass 482 Temporary Skills Shortage visa last year saw a 28% decline in the amount of sponsored visas being granted, which created a severe skills shortage across affected businesses. In order to rectify this issue and also distribute the migrant population outside of major Australian cities, the Australian government has created a new Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA). This scheme will enable specific regions to resolve workforce shortages with experienced, skilled or semi-skilled overseas workers, as well as offer a pathway to permanent residency for successful migrant applicants.

Understanding the English Language Criteria for Australian Visa Applications

January 21, 2021June 19, 2019 by PMA

Australian Visa English Language Test Requirements

Generally, applications for Australian Visas need to be accompanied by evidence that the applicant possesses sufficient proficiency in the English language. There are a number of tests and results which are acceptable to the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) when lodging and application, which must have been taken at most two years prior to the application lodgment date.

Australian Visitor Visas

January 21, 2021June 19, 2019 by PMA

If you’re planning a trip to Australia it’s important to understand the different visitor visa options and requirements for each. There are many reasons to visit Australia such as holidays, sightseeing, visiting family or friends or even for medical reasons, but regardless of the reason for your trip or the intended length of your stay you will need an appropriate valid Australian visa.