News/Blog

Welcome to the Century Ocean Australian Immigration News Channel! With the start of the 2023-2024 financial year, we would like to summarise four important changes for you, including visa application charge increases, changes to the 500 and 485 visas, and an increase in the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT).

First, we’ll talk about the adjustment of visa application charges (VACs). Starting from the 1st of July 2023, Australian VACs will see an increase based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) forecast for the 2023-2024 financial year from 3% and more depending on the visa subclass. Visitor visas, working holiday visas, work and holiday visas, training visas, temporary activity visas, and temporary work (short stay specialist) visas will incur an additional 21% fee increase. Business Innovation and Investment visas will have an additional 46% fee increase, while other visas will have an additional 6% fee increase. The visa application fees for Subclass 403 (Temporary Work (International Relations)) visas under the Pacific Australia Labor Mobility (PALM) program will remain unchanged. The new visa application fees will be rounded to the nearest 5 Australian dollars.

Second, there are changes to the 500 student visa work conditions. The requirement for Condition 8104 work rights relaxation will be removed unless students visa holders have been working in the aged care sector before the 9th of May 2023. This provision will revert to normal work restrictions from the 31st of December 2023. For all other students visa holders, although unlimited work hours are no longer available, the fortnightly work limitation will be increased from 40 hours to 48 hours starting from the 1st of July 2023.

The third change pertains to the 485 visas. According to the legislation, from the 1st of July 2023, the stay period for Subclass 485 visa holders with specific qualifications will be extended. Specifically, the stay period for Bachelor's degrees with specific majors will be extended from two years to four years, Master's degrees with specific majors will be extended from three years to five years, and all Doctoral degrees will be extended from four years to six years. These specific qualifications include medicine, healthcare, engineering, and information technology, and they will be reviewed annually. Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders will continue to have a five-year validity period for the Post-Study Work (PSW) visa. Eligible applicants who submit their Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) applications for the first time from the 1st of July 2023, will receive an additional two years of the visa stay period. Eligible applicants in the Replacement process or applying for Temporary Graduate visas based on studying and residing in regional Australia under the Post-Study Work process will also receive an additional two years of the visa stay period. Also, it is important to note that Subclass 485 applicants in the Graduate Work Stream, will again be required to nominate an occupation and provide a relevant successful skills assessment to be eligible. 

Lastly, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will increase to AUD $70,000 from the 1st of July 2023. Until the 30th of June 2023, nominations could be lodged under the old TSMIT of AUD $53,900. This means that visa applicants who successfully obtained a nomination under the lower TSMIT could lodge their visa applications after the 1st of July 2023, without the need to meet the new TSMIT (i.e., AUD $70,000 after the 1st of July 2023). 

It is worth mentioning that the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa in the Regional Provisional Stream, which is the pathway to permanent residence for eligible holders of:

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visa
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (subclass 494) visa.
• There is no minimum income requirement for the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191). There is no legislation or regulation in place that specifies a minimum income threshold for this visa apart from meeting minimum award wage requirements.

Please continue to follow the Century Ocean Immigration News Channel for more updates and practical information on immigration, visas and international education in Australia.

Century Ocean is here to talk to you about additional pathways you can take and provide you with the help you need in your migration journey.

We look forward to providing you with professional and up-to-date information and immigration assistance, so that you can achieve your goals stress-free.

Need to know more? Contact us at Century Ocean today.

(Note: Reference only, and specific information should be verified with official sources.)

Reference: 

Migration Amendment (Extension of Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) Visa and Increase in 

Subclass 500 (Student) Visa Work Hours) Regulations 2023

https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article...

https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/archive/article...

The Ultimate Guide to Part-time and Internship Opportunities for International Students in Australia: Job Opportunities, Considerations, and Salary Regulations

For international students studying in Australia or those who are about to graduate, finding part-time and internship opportunities is an important consideration. This article will provide you with advice, considerations, and information regarding salary regulations when searching for part-time and internship positions in Australia. If you are considering gaining internship experience in Australia or enhancing your resume, we hope you will find inspiration and valuable information through this article.

Part 1: Finding Part-time and Internship Opportunities

University Career Services: Australian universities typically offer dedicated career services that include job postings, career fairs, and job search guidance. Make an appointment with a university career advisor to learn about the support and resources they can provide.

Here are some websites for career services at Australian universities:

University of Melbourne: https://students.unimelb.edu.au/careers

University of Sydney: https://www.sydney.edu.au/careers/

University of Adelaide: https://www.adelaide.edu.au/student/careers/

Campus Notice Boards and Online Platforms: Keep an eye on notice boards and online platforms both on and off campus, as they often post various part-time and internship job opportunities. Also, explore specialized job websites and social media groups in Australia, such as Facebook/Instagram.

Professional Social Media and Job Websites: Join relevant professional social media groups and follow job postings on professional websites. These platforms can help expand your network and provide more job opportunities.

Here are some commonly used Australian job websites:

Seek (https://www.seek.com.au)

Indeed (https://au.indeed.com)

LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com)

CareerOne (https://www.careerone.com.au)

Gumtree (https://www.gumtree.com.au)

Australian JobSearch (https://jobsearch.gov.au)

Part 2: Considerations in Job Search

Work Hours: According to the latest work hour requirements for international students from July 2023, students are generally allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their study period and full-time during holidays.

Know Your Rights and Laws: Familiarise yourself with Australian employment rights and regulations and thoroughly understand the work conditions offered by employers before signing an employment contract.

Language and Communication Skills: Good English communication skills are crucial for successfully finding part-time and internship opportunities. Prepare your resume and cover letter in advance and actively participate in interviews and career communications. If you need to improve your language skills, consider joining free English conversation groups or online English courses.

(Please refer to this article for more details: www.Outbrain new article link)

Salary Regulations:

Minimum Wage Standards: Generally, employees aged 21 or above should receive a minimum hourly wage of at least $21.38 with a regulated increase of 5.75% from July 2023. If they are not entitled to paid leave, the minimum wage should currently be $26.73 per hour. The minimum wage amounts mentioned here are pre-tax amounts. Employers must deduct taxes from employees' wages.

Internship Compensation: According to Australian labor laws, whether internships are paid or unpaid depends on the nature and conditions of the internship. Some internships may offer compensation, while others may be unpaid but provide valuable work experience. Clarify the internship salary or benefits with the employer before accepting the internship.

Part 3: Job Market Status and Strategies

Currently, the job market in Australia is highly competitive, and international students face certain challenges in finding employment. Therefore, be mentally prepared and develop a proactive job search strategy.

Personal Branding: Enhance the visibility of your personal brand and establish a professional image. Improve your resume, update your LinkedIn profile, and showcase your professional abilities and achievements on social media.

Value of Internship Experience: Having internship experience can enhance your competitiveness in the job search process. Even short-term internships can provide valuable industry insights and work skills. Actively seek internship opportunities and incorporate internship experience into your resume.

As an international student in Australia, part-time and internship experiences serve as important stepping stones into the job market. By seeking suitable opportunities and showcasing your abilities, you will lay a solid foundation for your career development. Don't forget to utilize university career services and various online resources, while maintaining a positive attitude and persistence. By doing so, we believe you can achieve success in your job search journey in Australia!

Australian Working Holiday Visa pathways to Permanent Residency: Opportunities for Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) Visa and Working Holiday (Subclass 417) Visa Holders. 

Australia is a popular destination for tourists and working holiday makers from countries around the world, including visitors from Asia, Europe, and North and South America. Many visitors who come to Australia on a working holiday visa often fall in love with the country's beautiful landscapes, friendly people, and diverse culture, and wish to stay in Australia permanently. Fortunately, there are several pathways available for applying from a working holiday visa to other visas, including options for permanent residency, for those who meet the eligibility criteria. In this article, we will explore some of the options for moving from a working holiday visa to other visas, as well as recommend alternative ways for people who are looking at study opportunities in Australia.

Skilled Migration Visas: One of the most common pathways to permanent residency in Australia is through skilled migration visas. These visas are designed for individuals with skills and qualifications that are in demand in Australia. The Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) are popular options for skilled workers. To be eligible, applicants must have relevant qualifications and work experience, meet the English language requirement, and pass a skills assessment. Having work experience in Australia while on a working holiday visa can be an advantage in the points-based system used for skilled migration visas.

Employer-Sponsored Visas: Another pathway to permanent residency in Australia is through employer-sponsored visas. If you can secure a job offer from an Australian employer while on a working holiday visa, you may be eligible for an employer-sponsored visa. The Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) is an employer-sponsored visa that can lead to permanent residency. This visa requires sponsorship from an Australian employer and may have additional requirements such as age, English language proficiency, and skills assessment.

Partner Visas: If you are in a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may be eligible for a partner visa. The Partner Visa (subclass 820/801 or 309/100) allows you to live, work, and study in Australia, and eventually apply for permanent residency. You may be eligible for a partner visa if you are married or in a de facto relationship. It is important to provide evidence of your relationship and meet the requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Regional Visas: Australia has a Regional Migration Program that aims to encourage migration to regional areas of the country. Regional visas such as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491) and the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 494) require you to live and work in a regional area for a certain period of time before you become eligible for permanent residency. These visas have specific requirements related to regional employment and residence, and may be an option for those who are willing to live in regional areas of Australia.

It is important to note that the requirements for moving from a working holiday visa to other visas, including permanent residency, can be complex and subject to change. It is recommended to consult with a Registered Migration Agent for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa options and requirements that are relevant to your specific situation.

Apart from the visa pathways mentioned above, there are also many study opportunities in Australia. 

Australian Study Requirement: If you are interested in studying in Australia, completing a recognized Australian qualification could be a pathway to permanent residency. The Australian Study Requirement allows international students who have completed at least two years of study in Australia to gain additional points towards their skilled migration visa application. This can increase your chances of obtaining a permanent residency visa.

In conclusion, moving from a working holiday visa to other visas, including permanent residency, is possible for those who meet the eligibility criteria and follow the relevant visa pathways. However, it is important to note that visa requirements and regulations can change, and it is essential to seek professional advice from a Registered Migration Agent for accurate and up-to-date information. It is advisable to thoroughly research and understand the visa options available to you and seek professional guidance to increase your chances of successfully obtaining a visa for Australia.

Photo from https://www.australia.com/en

International students coming to Australia and looking for accommodation!

We know that finding a place to rent can be a daunting task, especially with the current housing market. But don’t worry, we’re here to offer advice!

First and foremost, it’s important to start your search early. Begin looking for a place to rent at least a few months before your move-in date. This will give you plenty of time to find the right place and complete all the necessary paperwork.

One of the best ways to find a place to rent is to use online rental platforms such as Domain, Realestate.com.au, and Flatmates. These websites allow you to search for properties based on your preferences, budget, and location. You can even set up alerts for new listings that match your criteria.

Another option is to work with a real estate agent/property manager. They can help you navigate the rental market and find a property that meets your needs. Keep in mind that you will need to pay a fee for their services.

As a student, searching for student accommodation is also a good option for new arrivals and first time international students. In Australia, most universities and colleges offer student accommodation. Student accommodations typically provide fully-furnished rooms, shared kitchen and bathroom facilities, as well as social activities, which can help you better adjust to life in Australia. There are some brands you can search such as Unilodge, Iglu, Urbanest, Scape, Atira, Y Suites, etc.

When applying for a rental property, be sure to have all your documentation in order. This includes your passport, visa, rental history, and proof of income. Landlords and real estate agents will want to see that you are a reliable and trustworthy tenant.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help! Reach out to your university’s international student services department or student accommodation office. In most cases, they charge a small fee for this, but they may have the resources or connections that can help you find a place to rent without the added stress of doing this yourself. Also, if you are a Century Ocean client, we will always try our best to assist you.

We understand that the current housing market can be challenging, but with a little patience, organization and persistence, you’ll find the perfect place to call home during your time in Australia.

Need to know more? Contact us at Century Ocean today.

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