HYDERABAD, India, 2019-Jul-20 — /EPR Network/ — The Australian government has an annual review of its immigration system on the first of July every year. On this date, the policy makers take decisions and plan quotas for state nominated and independent subclass immigration for both skilled as well as unskilled workers. We can expect to see some major changes in Australia immigration over the coming months.

Changes to Australia Immigration Policy

1. Visa Fees Are Likely To Go Up

It is expected that the fees for a few visa categories will be raised from the beginning of July. Most of the visa types could increase by over 5 percent. For example, the fees for getting a student Visa will increase from 575 AUD to 606 AUD, while skilled worker visa will increase from over 3700 AUD to over 3900 AUD.

2. Changes Are Expected In the Points Based Test of the Australia Immigration System

Come November, we could see some changes in the points based test, which are likely to include awarding of additional points for applicants who meet certain criteria, including, applicants with a good command of English, applicants who are single etc.

3. The Rules or Partner Visas Are Likely To Become Stricter

Immigrants to Australia, who are planning to get their partners with them, will need to take note that, the rules for applying for a partner visa would be stricter going forward. Residents and citizens of Australia would also need to undergo a pre-assessment exercise before they are permitted to sponsor partners to apply for Australia visa. Moreover the time taken for processing the partner visa will also be longer, as the applicant will not be allowed to apply until the primary applicant has cleared a background check.

4. Changes Expected In Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA)

The DAMA was instituted by the government to encourage people to immigrate to certain designated areas of the country. This scheme is expected to encourage individuals who would not be eligible for Australia immigration, under the general points based system. The DAMA enables employers in rural regions to sponsor workers who are in occupations that are not a part of the critical occupations list. Individuals who immigrate under DAMA also become eligible to apply for permanent residency. Regions that have been deemed to be eligible for DAMA are North Queensland, Norther Territory, Orana, Pilbara, Goldfields, Warnambool and South Australia.