Here is the first comprehensive, yet easy-to-understand summary of the new Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa changes, prepared for you by our expert migration specialists.
Watch this space, our comprehensive, easy-to-read summary for the 186 and 187 visas to come shortly!
TSS VISA OVERVIEW
When: In effect 18 March 2018
The 3 Streams: The TSS visa will have 3 streams:
1. Short-Term Stream: Aimed at addressing short-term skill shortages in Australia
- Maximum Visa Length: 2 years, can only be renewed onshore once*
- Pathway to PR: No
- Occupation List: Available for those with occupations on the Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
2. Medium-Term Stream: Aimed at addressing medium to long-term skills shortages in Australia
- Maximum Visa Length: 4 years, no restrictions to number of renewals onshore
- Pathway to PR: Yes
- Occupation List: Available for those with occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and Regional Occupation List (ROL)
3. Labour Agreement Stream: Aimed at addressing demonstrated skills shortages where standard visa programs are not available
- Varies according to specific labour agreement with Commonwealth Government
SUMMARY OF THE KEY CHANGES vs 457 VISA
1. Time for 186/187 TRT Stream Eligibility (Increased): You must now be on the 457/TSS visa for 3 years before you can apply for PR via the Temporary Residence Transition stream.
2. Occupation List (Changed): The occupation lists have been changed yet again. Due to the extensive lists, we are analysing this as we write and will provide you with an updated Ultimate Guide to Occupation List changes shortly.
3. Maximum Age (None): No age limit for TSS visa
- Please note however, the permanent 186, 187 visas have had their maximum age reduced from 50 to 45
- You also now need to be on the TSS visa for 3 years before you can apply for the TRT stream, meaning you should be wary of this as you approach 41 years of age if you’re considering the TSS to TRT pathway for PR
4. English Requirements (Slight Increase):
- Short-Term Stream: Minimum IELTS 5.0 overall with 4.5 in each band
- Medium-Term Stream: Minimum IELTS 5.0 overall with 5 in each band
5. Work Experience Requirements (NEW): At least 2 years of relevant work experience
6. Salary Requirements (Changed):
- TSMIT (the minimum salary allowable for TSS visa holders) remains the same at $53,900
- The market salary rate (benchmark salary for Australians employed in equivalent positions) is now officially calculated using the new Annual Market Rate Salary framework. We are currently seeking clarification on exactly how this will be determined, more information to come.
7. Application Fees (Increased):
- Short-Term Stream: $1,150 per primary applicant and secondary adult applicant. $290 per secondary applicant under the age of 18
- Medium-Term Stream: $2,400 per primary applicant and secondary adult applicant. $600 per secondary applicant under the age of 18
8. Skills Assessment Requirements (Same): The list of occupations and nationalities that must obtain a positive skills assessment remain the same
9. Sponsor’s Training Requirement (Changed): The previous benchmark system (1 or 2% of total payroll) has been removed, and is currently set to be replaced by the SAF levy in coming weeks. More information on the SAF levy to come once released.
10. Maximum Age of Dependent Children (Increased): Children not yet turned 23 can now be included as dependent children, this has increased from the previous age of 21.
If you have any concerns about the news above and how it affects you, feel free to book in a FREE 1-to-1 consultation and get a peace of mind today!
Source: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2018L00262/Download