Australian Migration Updates 2020-21

The new migration year has now begun with some changes in the management of the migration planning programme. The department has released information regarding the impact COVID 19 has had on the Australian migration program planning and delivery.  A summary of some of the major changes are provided below. The Infinite Migration team is available to discuss your visa plans and evaluate how the changes may impact you or your family.

Impact of the border closure

There has been an estimated decrease of 30% on the net overseas migration (NOM) in contrast to the 2018-19 year.  The decrease is expected to fall further in 2020-2021.

Australian Migration program and economic recovery

The Australian government has confirmed that they continue to prioritise the health of the community. They will, however, carefully calibrate the migration program to encourage a growth in jobs and bring investment into Australia to assist in Australia’s economic recovery.  Migration is expected to be a key component of Australia’s economic recovery.

The size and the composition for the 2020-21 Migration Program

At this time, the Department of Home Affairs will maintain the same 2019-20 migration numbers.    This means the migration planning ceiling will remain at 160,000 places.

This includes:

  • 108,682 places for the Skill stream.
  • 47,732 places for the Family stream.
  • 236 places for the Special Eligibility stream.
  • 3,350 places for Child visas

State Nomination programs for Migration Year 2020-21

Places for the following categories will be made available to the state and territory nomination authorities for 2020-21 migration year:

  • Skilled Nominated (subclass 190).
  • Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491).
  • Business Innovation and Investment Program.

Invitation Rounds for 189 visa and 491 (family sponsored) visa

The government has been monitoring the migration programmes to maintain job opportunities for Australians in order to quickly recover from the impact COVID 19. Invitation rounds have been targeted each month for critical sectors that will help aid Australia’s recovery post COVID 19.

Migrants entering Australia

There are still entry restrictions placed on the Australian borders only Australian citizens, a permanent resident, immediate family members of an Australian citizen or permanent resident or New Zealand citizens usually resident in Australia can travel to Australia.

The department will expect sufficient evidence of the relationship should you hold a temporary visa as an immediate family member of Australian citizens and permanent residents.

Our team can guide you regarding your future visa goals in Australia while navigating the new changes. Contact Infinite Migration  for a complimentary phone consultation.

Source: MIA information release – https://www.mia.org.au/documents/item/1703

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