Are you worried About Your Australian Visa Application?
If you are planning on moving to Australia or already on a visa, keeping up with the latest changes is essential. Here are some recent updates that might affect you and what they mean in simple terms.
Subclasses 482 & 494 Visa Holders Can Keep Working While Waiting for Approval
Good news for Subclass 482 and Subclass 494 visa holders! If you’ve applied for a nomination to change employers, you can continue working while waiting for approval. This means:
No gaps in your employment.
You can keep earning while your application is processed.
Less stress about visa conditions while switching jobs.
This update removes uncertainty for many workers and ensures they can keep supporting themselves without unnecessary delays.
Subclass 186 Visa: Work Experience Rules Are Now More Flexible
Starting December 7, 2024, applicants for the Subclass 186 visa no longer need to have worked for the same employer for two years before applying. Instead, any work done between nomination lodgment and approval will count.
What does this mean for you?
More freedom to change employers before applying.
A smoother pathway to permanent residency.
Have fewer restrictions on how work experience is counted.
This change makes it easier for skilled workers to transition into long-term employment in Australia.
Northern Territory DAMA III Announced
A new Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA III) has been introduced, bringing some key changes:
A broader list of occupations is now eligible.
There are more nomination places available.
Application processes have been streamlined for NT employers.
Some important things to note:
🔹 The program is temporarily suspended for new endorsements during the transition to DAMA III.
🔹 Employers under the previous NT DAMA II can still submit nominations.
🔹 Expect the new online application portal will open by March 31, 2025.
If you’re planning to apply under DAMA III, keep an eye out for updates from the Northern Territory government.
What This Means for You
With all these changes, visa applicants have more flexibility, fewer restrictions, and more certainty. Whether you're waiting for a nomination, applying for permanent residency, or figuring out job classifications, these updates aim to make things easier.
