The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) (subclass 482) and Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) streams of the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (subclass 186) visa programs are about to undergo major changes, signalling the beginning of a transformative period for skilled migrant workers in Australia. 

The goal of these efforts, which are scheduled to take effect on November 25, 2023, is to give sponsored skilled workers a more direct and easier route to permanent residency (PR).

Streamlining the TSS Journey

Australia is changing the face of temporary skilled labour visas. The limit on domestic Short-term Stream TSS visa applications will be removed on November 25, 2023. 

The goal is to remove needless restrictions and provide TSS visa holders greater flexibility. Holders of short-term stream TSS visas whose visas expire before the specified date must leave Australia to renew their visas.

These modifications are intended to "provide businesses and holders of TSS visas with more certainty and ensure Australia attracts and keeps the skilled workers it needs," according to the official release. This is the first step in developing a PR framework that is inclusive of all TSS visa holders and will eventually lead to more extensive revisions in the skilled visa programs.

Revamping TRT Stream Nomination Requirements

The Employer Nomination Scheme's Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) stream is the subject of the second big change. With these adjustments:

• Employers now have the freedom to choose nominees who fit into any of the TSS visa categories, such as labour agreement and short-term. The objective of this modification is to augment the employer's capacity to propose proficient labourers in diverse TSS classifications.
• It is no longer necessary for nominated jobs in the TRT stream to match a list of skilled migration occupations. The Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) is where the chosen occupation should instead be included. Employees are required to remain in the designated position from their TSS visa(s).
• In order to be eligible for TRT stream nomination, a TSS visa holder must work in their nominated position for two of the three years before nomination. The purpose of this modification is to hasten the shift from temporary to permanent status.
  
  

Navigating PR and Citizenship

Though the Australian government has been struggling regarding permanent residence programs, it is dedicated to improving PR pathways, not just to TSS and TRT changes.

The blog post highlights the various categories that fall under the umbrella of Australian Work visas and lists the main routes to permanent residency, such as the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme, Employer Nomination Scheme, and Skilled Nominated visas.

The article emphasizes the importance of having a valid travel facility on the permanent visa for re-entry following international travel in the context of Australian permanent residency. Details on qualifying for citizenship are also provided, emphasizing the significance of maintaining continuous residency, possessing a permanent or Special Category visa for the last 12 months, and abiding by absence restrictions.

FAQS

What does it mean to shorten the eligibility period for TRT stream nominations?

To facilitate the transfer from temporary to permanent status, the duration for which a holder of a TSS visa must hold and perform in their designated role or activity in order to be eligible for TRT stream nomination has been shortened to two out of three years.

Will the TRT stream affect the age exemptions for some visa applicants?

Revisions to the age exemptions will provide for a two-year pathway for candidates seeking to become regional medical practitioners and high-income earners 45 years of age or older. The age exemptions relating to COVID-19 will be removed.