Only a few days ago the government made a few main announcements for migrants through the Federal Budget 2021-2022 Immigration. The government expects Australia’s international border to reopen gradually starting in mid-2022.

We have explained the changes in the federal budget in a concise manner that may be of assistance to you.

Australia’s international border is expected to reopen gradually starting in mid-2022.

The Federal Budget made a few prime assumptions for 2021-2022 based on many factors that are highly uncertain like the status of COVID-19, new strains and more. The borders will only be opened when it is safe. 

The government has recommended that the vaccine rollout should be completed by the end of 2021. From late 2021 to 2022, there will be a gradual return of international students through small programs.

Negative Net Overseas Migration (NOM)

Since World War II, Australia has had a negative Net Overseas Migration (NOM) forecast for the second year in a row. When the NOM is negative, it means that more migrants are leaving Australia than are arriving.

Net Overseas Migration (NOM) is now expected to decline from around 154,000 people in 2019-20 to around -72,000 people by the end of 2020-21. However, by 2024-25, it is expected to gradually rise to around 235,000 people.

The NOM will take some time to recover to pre-pandemic levels, and that migration will be slow and gradual in the coming years.

The Government maintains the same Migration Program Level as 2020-21

In 2021-22, the government will maintain the 160,000 Permanent Visa placements planned in the 2020-21 Migration Program, with a nearly equal split between Skilled and Family Visas.

Skilled visas will account for roughly half of all migration, with the Employer-Sponsored, Business Innovation and Investor Program, and Global Talent visa streams prioritizing highly skilled migrants.

For 2021-22, the number of family visas will be limited to 77,300.

Four years to access government welfare

According to the Federal Budget announcement, new Australians will have to wait four years to receive government assistance.

It is estimated that the government will save $671 million over the next five years. More than 14,000 migrants and 40,000 families will be affected due to the announcement.

Although these changes in the Federal Budget have brought some good news to international students who work. Soon, they can work more than 40 hours in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

A visa application can still be made. Even though visas are still being issued, onshore applications are being given priority. Offshore applicants may be permitted to enter Australia if they fulfil the requirements of a Travel Exemption.

Hope this blog was helpful to you guys. If you need more information on the changes of the Federal Budget or any other queries regarding studying in Australia or choosing a course, we are here to help.

Please visit our Yes People website or you can also contact us on +61 2 8056 7110 or email us at info@yespeople.com.au.