482 Visa Holders Will Have Extended Period for Finding New Sponsors
Key Changes: Extended Period for Finding New Sponsors:
Visa holders now have up to 180 days at a time, or a maximum of 365 days in total across the entire visa grant period, to find a new sponsor, apply for another visa, or arrange to depart Australia.This is a significant increase from the previous 60-day period. Flexibility in Employment:
During the extended period, visa holders can work for other employers in occupations other than their current approved occupation.This allows visa holders to support themselves while searching for a new sponsor.However, they must not perform work that requires a license or registration inconsistent with their nominated occupation. Employer Obligations:
Sponsors must notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes within 28 days, including if a visa holder ceases employment. Impact on Permanent Residence Applications:
No details have been provided on how the government will monitor compliance when visa holders switch employers.The impact on applications for permanent residence under the Employer Nomination Scheme, which requires two years of employment with the nominating employer, remains unclear. Potential Drawbacks for Employers:
The changes may lead to greater caution among employers before sponsoring visa holders due to the significant costs and limited scenarios for refunds of the Skilling Australians Fund Levy. The recent changes to the 482 visa conditions offer more flexibility and time for visa holders to navigate the job market, reducing immediate pressure and potentially preventing exploitation. However, the increased competition with local employees and the extended periods may lead to challenges in ensuring compliance and monitoring. Employers may face higher risks and costs, potentially making them more cautious in sponsoring new visa holders. The government’s commitment to reducing worker exploitation is clear, but the practical implementation and long-term effects of these changes will require close monitoring and potential adjustments.
Visa holders now have up to 180 days at a time, or a maximum of 365 days in total across the entire visa grant period, to find a new sponsor, apply for another visa, or arrange to depart Australia.This is a significant increase from the previous 60-day period. Flexibility in Employment:
During the extended period, visa holders can work for other employers in occupations other than their current approved occupation.This allows visa holders to support themselves while searching for a new sponsor.However, they must not perform work that requires a license or registration inconsistent with their nominated occupation. Employer Obligations:
Sponsors must notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes within 28 days, including if a visa holder ceases employment. Impact on Permanent Residence Applications:
No details have been provided on how the government will monitor compliance when visa holders switch employers.The impact on applications for permanent residence under the Employer Nomination Scheme, which requires two years of employment with the nominating employer, remains unclear. Potential Drawbacks for Employers:
The changes may lead to greater caution among employers before sponsoring visa holders due to the significant costs and limited scenarios for refunds of the Skilling Australians Fund Levy. The recent changes to the 482 visa conditions offer more flexibility and time for visa holders to navigate the job market, reducing immediate pressure and potentially preventing exploitation. However, the increased competition with local employees and the extended periods may lead to challenges in ensuring compliance and monitoring. Employers may face higher risks and costs, potentially making them more cautious in sponsoring new visa holders. The government’s commitment to reducing worker exploitation is clear, but the practical implementation and long-term effects of these changes will require close monitoring and potential adjustments.
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