If you’re planning to travel to Australia to work, you need to take note of new requirements for skilled migrant visas following the Australian Federal Government’s abolition of the current 457 visa scheme. On 19 April 2017, the Australian Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, announced that the 457 visa would be replaced by a new scheme that will comprise a short-term two-year visa and a medium-term four-year visa with a reduced occupation list. Although the new visa scheme was implemented immediately, skilled migrants currently working in Australia on a 457 visa can continue to work under their current conditions. Key Reforms for Workers In addition to a reduced occupation list, people intending to travel to work in Australia must be aware of the following reforms: You will be required to have at least three years’ work experience with at least two years’ work experience in your skilled occupation You must be under the age of 45 at the time of application for a visa Requirements for proficiency in the English language will be tightened If you are successful in obtaining a short-term visa, you will be able to apply for just one onshore visa renewal If you are successful in obtaining a medium-term visa, you will be able to apply for visa renewal onshore and permanent residency after three years To be eligible for permanent residency, you must have resided in Australia for three years (previously the period was two years) You will be required to pay a fee of AU$1,150 for a short-term visa, or $2,400 for a medium-term visa. Short and medium-term visas to work in regional Australia will be more readily available, with a broader range of occupations applicable. The new visa scheme was announced on 19 April for immediate implementation, with full implementation to be completed by March 2018. Detailed information on changes to occupations is available here. Applying for a visa to work in Australia can be complex. For further advice on your opportunities to work in Australia and assistance to obtain a visa, contact the experts at Ayers. Telephone: 1300 767 391 Rhttp://www.border.gov.au/Trav/Work/457-abolition-replacementeferences www.border.gov.au/Trav/Work/457-abolition-replacement