Australia Announces New Work Visa Rules for Subclass 400: What You Need to Know
Australia has long been a sought-after destination for skilled professionals, and recent updates to the Subclass 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa have created a buzz in the international job market. For businesses and workers alike, understanding these changes is crucial for making the most of this visa category.
What is Subclass 400 Visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is designed for highly skilled workers who are invited by Australian employers to undertake short-term, specialized work. It allows individuals to:
- Perform high-level or specialist tasks for a limited period (up to 3 months, or in special cases, 6 months).
- Work in industries requiring unique expertise that is not readily available in the Australian workforce.
Traditionally, this visa has been a fast-track solution for bringing in foreign experts to meet short-term skills gaps.
Changes to the Subclass 400 Visa
The two main changes announced for the Subclass 400 visa are:
- Scrutinizing longer-term stays: Under the new changes, visa officers will closely scrutinize the visa applications where a worker must stay in Australia for more than three months in 12 months. The Department has not discontinued the 6-month stay for Subclass 400 visa, but those applications will be considered as exceptional.
The following types of applicants are unlikely to get a 6-month visa duration:
- Candidates from countries having lower income rates than Australia
- If an employer wished to employ multiple separate contracts
- Low-skilled job roles listed under ANZSCO level 4 or 5
- Return Visits: Under the new changes, foreign workers who have arrived in Australia on Subclass 400 visa will not be allowed to return and revisit multiple times over 12 months. Workers will only be allowed to stay for three months in 12 months after they arrive in Australia on a Subclass 400 visa.
Employers in Australia must choose between Subclass 400 or 482 visas while recruiting foreign workers following the implementation of new changes.
What Does This Mean for Potential Applicants?
If you are considering applying for a Subclass 400 visa, now is the time to:
- Ensure that your skill set aligns with the specialized needs of Australian employers.
- Work closely with your potential employer to meet the new documentation requirements.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest processing times and application requirements to avoid delays.
Ready to Explore Opportunities in Australia? Let Emigrantz Guide You!
At Emigrantz, we understand how important it is to stay ahead of immigration policy changes, especially when it comes to securing your dream job overseas. Our team of visa experts is here to help you navigate Australia’s updated Subclass 400 visa process with ease. Whether you are an employer looking to hire specialized talent or a skilled professional seeking exciting opportunities, we’ve got the experience and knowledge to ensure a smooth and successful application.
Don’t miss out on Australia’s booming industries—reach out to Emigrantz today and let us help you take the next step toward a brighter future in Australia.