The Department of Immigration and Border Protection has recently released some information for existing 457 Visa holders relating to the 457 visa changes and subsequent pathway to PR.
Current 457 visa holders who obtained a visa prior to the April 2017 changes, will not need to meet the new requirements when applying for Permanent Residency (PR) under the Temporary Residence Transition Stream (TRT) via ENS (Employer Nominated Scheme) and RSMS (Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme).
To be eligible for the transitional provisions, you must either have:
- Held a 457 visa as of 18 April 2017; or
- Have a pending 457 visa application as of 18 April 2017
Grandfathered applicants will be able to apply even if their occupation is not on the MLTSSL.
457 visa holders who fall into these categories will be able to breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the changes that recently came into effect have not impacted their ability to apply for Permanent Residency.
If you are interested in starting the Permanent Residency application process, we can assist you. Please contact Entity Solutions’ registered Migration Agents on (03) 9600 0333 or via email at enquiries@entitysolutions.com.au
should you need any further guidance.