Changes to ens (186) and rsms (187)

In line with changes made to the temporary employer sponsored visa programs, in March 2018 significant changes also came into effect in the permanent employer sponsored visa programs. A summary of key changes are outlined below:

ENS (subclass 186) and RSMS (subclass 187)

Age limit lowered – applicants must not have turned 45 years of age (previously 50) before lodgement (transitional arrangements apply, refer below) English language – all applicants, regardless of stream, must have competent English (previously vocational English for the temporary residence transition stream) must have at least 3 years of relevant employment experience (this change effect the transitional cohort only, refer below) must have worked for at least 3 years (previously 2 years) for the nominating employer, in the nominated occupation while holding a 457/482 visa to be eligible for the temporary residence transition stream (transitional arrangements apply, refer below) applicants must be remunerated at or above market rate for the position locally, in addition to be paid at or above the current temporary skilled migration income threshold the position offered must be genuine and information and evidence provided to support claims the Skilling Australians fund (SAF) replaces the training obligations after 12 August 2018. Note that training obligations must be met before that time, in addition to paying the SAF ENS (subclass 186) only eligible occupations limited to the Medium Long-Term Strategic Skills List or the Regional Occupations List (transitional arrangements apply, refer below) RSMS (subclass 187) only all applicants regardless of occupation are required to have their skills assessed by the relevant assessing body prior to lodgement.

Transitional Arrangements Applicants who had submitted their approved 457 visa application on or before 18 April 2017 are subject to transitional arrangements as below: age limit – applicants who have turned 45, but have not turned 50 may continue to apply if they submit their visa application before March 2022 occupations list – no occupations list applies for applicants who submit their visa application before March 2022 can work for at least 2 years for the nominating employer, in the nominated occupation while holding a 457/482 visa to be eligible for the temporary residence transition stream where the visa application is submitted before March 2022.

We offer complimentary eligibility determination for employers and their candidates. Please contact us for permanent employer sponsorship.