On 1 November 2024, during the recently concluded meeting on Australia’s anticipated immigration policy changes, several key updates were revealed, signaling important upcoming reforms.
These updates reflect a significant shift in Australia’s immigration policy and are expected to provide greater flexibility and opportunities for skilled workers and investors.
What is SID Visa & NIV Visa？
The new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa is designed to replace the current Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) (Subclass 482) Visa. It offers greater flexibility for workers to change employers and provides clear pathways to permanent residency with a three-tiered system categorised by occupation type and guaranteed annual earnings.
- Duration: Up to 4 years
- The three-tiered system：Specialist Skills Pathway, Core Skills Occupation Pathway, and Essential Skills Pathway.
- Implementation Date: End of 2024
- Flexibility to change employers: Time spent with any approved employer will count towards permanent residence requirement. This means SID visa holders can change employers and relevant work experience with approved employers can count towards permanent residence requirement.
Guaranteed annual earnings of at least AUD 73,150 (indexed annually); a simpler and regularly updated Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) managed by Jobs and Skills Australia; proposed 21-day processing
The National Innovation Visa (NIV) offers a unique pathway for global talent to gain permanent residence in Australia. By emphasising extraordinary achievement, this visa allows Australia to attract exceptional individuals who can contribute to its cultural, economic and social landscape.
- Purpose: Designed to attract individuals who can demonstrate exceptional and outstanding achievements recognised at an international level.
- Specific Fields: Entrepreneurs, Global Researchers and Thought Leaders, Innovative Investors, Athletes and Creatives
- Nomination: The applicant must be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen who has a national reputation in the chose field, who can attest to the applicant’s achievements and potential contributions to Australia.
- Pathway to Permanent Residence: The NIV will allow a direct transition to permanent residence, eliminating the previous requirement to first hold temporary residence.
- No Age Limit: The visa has no age limit (exceptional benefit to Australia must be demonstrated if the applicant is under 18 years of age or over 55 years of age)
- English Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate at least functional English language ability or pay an English language fee (i.e. second Visa Application Charge).
- Invitation Only: Applications for the NIV will be by invitation only. The Expression of Interest (EOI) process will align more closely with other invitation-only visa categories emphasising the need for exceptional talent and achievement.
Established and emerging entrepreneurs who have shown success in their ventures.
Professionals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in research, scientific discovery or academic work. This includes those with published work, patents or groundbreaking research.
This category includes business leaders, innovative investors and inventors who have made innovative contributions or have significant achievements in other fields
Individuals demonstrating exceptional talent in sports or the arts, including athletes and sports professionals with national or international recognition in their respective fields.
Exploring the Impact of Australia’s 2024 Immigration Reforms: The Introduction of the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa & National Innovation Visa (NIV)
The Skills in Demand (SID) Visa and National Innovation Visa (NIV) mark a significant shift in Australia’s immigration framework, targeting skilled professionals and exceptional global talent.
The SID Visa, with its three-tiered system, focuses on filling skill shortages in high-demand sectors like aged care, disability services, and specialised occupations. Its flexibility for visa holders to switch employers and its clear pathways to permanent residency offer a more appealing option for skilled workers.
On the other hand, the NIV targets individuals with exceptional talent—entrepreneurs, researchers, innovators, and creative professionals. The direct permanent residency pathway, no age limits, and invitation-only process make it a highly competitive visa for top-tier talent contributing to Australia’s economic and cultural landscape.
These visas demonstrate Australia’s commitment to attracting both in-demand skilled workers and global talent, positioning the country as a prime destination for professionals and innovators worldwide.
Why Get Help from Australian Immigration Lawyers?
Navigating Australia’s immigration system can be challenging, especially when applying for permanent residency (PR). A migration lawyer is crucial in ensuring your application is thorough, accurate, and compliant with all legal requirements. With constant updates to immigration policies, such as the new Skills in Demand (SID) Visa and National Innovation Visa (NIV), an experienced migration lawyer can help you understand the latest changes and ensure your application is presented in the best possible way. They also offer Personalised advice, guiding you through document preparation, eligibility assessments, and visa conditions.
To ensure a smooth and successful visa application process, professional legal assistance is essential. Contact Brightstone Migration today for expert advice and support tailored to your situation.
Explore work visa options for Australia, visit our Work Visa service page for details.
SID Visa & NIV Visa FAQ
No. The 482 visa will be replaced by the new Skills in Demand (SID) visa by the end of 2024.
The SID visa allows more flexible job switching and offers a clearer path to permanent residency. It includes three different streams based on skill level and salary.
You’re eligible for the Specialist Skills Pathway — no occupation list, no age limit, and fast processing.
Yes, if you apply through the Specialist Skills Pathway and meet the salary threshold, an occupation list isn’t required.
Yes. SID visa holders can switch employers, and total work time across employers counts toward permanent residency.
The NIV is a new PR visa for globally recognised entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, and artists.
No. It is invitation-only and requires nomination from someone of national standing.
