Being one of the most popular countries for overseas immigrants, Australia is one among various countries that’s known for changing its immigration visa policy every year considering the demand of immigrants in the country. This year, Australia also came with new ‘Migration Rule 2012’ that became applicable by July 1, 2012 and will be taken into account by applicants applying for Australia migration.

Introducing new changes, Australia finally served its main aim of making its immigration visa process simpler and applicants-friendly. Besides, it also reflects the government’s main aim of fulfilling the requirements of skills shortage in the country.

Take a look at certain important facts about new changes in Australian immigration visa process.

Australian-employer-sponsored visa program

Under this visa program, following changes have been introduced;

1. Increasing the age limit from 50 to 55 for the applicants seeking for Australian Permanent Residency
2. Bringing fast-track Australian permanent residency route for helping to those who are eligible for skilled 457 visas
3. Eliminating language test for the applicants applying for permanent residency in Australia under current 457

SkillSelect program

It was introduced as a major change in the Australian immigration program and became most highlighted. Introduced on July 1, 2012, the applicants applying under the new program will have to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI).

Australian subclass visas (New Changes)

The new changes have been listed following

1. Two Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Australian Subclass 856 and Australian subclass 121 visa
2. Two Labor Agreements – Australian subclass 855 and Australian subclass 120
3. Two Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) – Australian subclass 857 and Australian subclass 119

According to new rules, the Australian subclass visas will be merged into two, as mentioned below

1. Under Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) – Australian Subclass 186
2. Under Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme – Australian Subclass 187

Each of the above visas has been further divided into three different streams that include Temporary Residence Transition Stream, Agreement Stream and Direct Entry Stream.