The Australian migration ride for overseas students is becoming bumpier and unpredictable with shrinking intake numbers and growing threshold points. The pool and pass marks increased to 65 for the applications made on or after 1 July for Subclass 189, Subclass 190, and Subclass 489. The frequently changing regulations have left prospective applicants in a confused state.
During the last financial year (2017-18), the Skill Select points’ pendulum had been swinging between 75 and 80. In one instance in Feb 2018, an applicant reached a staggering figure of 100 points- salute to the achiever, if it was real. Probably, multiple Expression of Interests (EOI) by individuals appear to be a major contributor to this issue. Apparently, the reduced number of invitations issued by the Department of Home Affairs in 2017-18, resulted in a large volume of undecided Skill Select applications.
In the near future, the Skill Independent (subclass 189) invitations will be extremely competitive, in fact, hard to achieve for onshore students. However, a few fortunate ones may cross this impractical hurdle. Currently, students are trying random options with arbitrary outcomes. The work experience conditions have automatically excluded the majority of Student and Skilled Graduate visa holders from applying TSS (a newer version of 457) and RSMS.
The only silver lining for permanent residency pathway at this stage appears to be state sponsorship- subclass 489 and 190 visa. The contenders should keep an eye out for state sponsorships as the positions are few and are grabbed quickly.
It is noticed that some students are reluctant to apply for the subclass 489 (provisional) visa and moving to designated areas. However, it is a concrete pathway that can lead to permanent residency. It would be advisable to subscribe newsletters and remain in touch with migration professionals to stay updated with frequent changes in migration policies. One informed decision at the right time could have a huge positive impact on one’s life.