Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Scheme
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The Government announced further changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme, specifically impacting holders of AEWVs in roles classified under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) levels 4 and 5 without a pathway to residency.
Fundamental Changes Effective June 26, 2024:
No Support for Partner and Dependent Visas: AEWV holders in ANZSCO levels 4 and 5 must have a residency pathway to support work, visitor, or student visa applications for their partners and dependent children.
Alternative Visa Applications: If they meet the requirements, partners and dependent children can still apply for visas independently, such as an Accredited Employer Work Visa or an international student visa.
Rationale Behind the Change:
This adjustment aligns with the broader modifications made to the AEWV scheme earlier this year, restoring the settings to those similar to the previous Essential Skills Work Visa.
Exemptions from the New Rules:
The change will not impact:
Individuals already holding visas as a partner or dependent child.
AEWV holders in ANZSCO level 4 and 5 roles with a residency pathway, such as those on the Green List, under sector agreements with residence pathways, or earning at least 1.5 times the median wage threshold for the Skilled Migrant Category.
Applications for partner or dependent child visas currently in progress; these will be assessed based on the requirements at the time of application.
Stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and explore alternative visa options if you are affected by the new rules. For more information, please contact us.