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ARTICLE · 16 DECEMBER 2022

Migration update – December 2022

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Includes the temporary closure of the NZ Stream visa, the work limitation for holiday makers, and the Indian trade agreement.

AustraliaImmigration
Rebecca Macmillan
Rebecca Macmillan
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In this update, we look at the temporary closure of the New Zealand Stream visa to new applicants, the recommencement of the six-month work limitation for working holiday makers, and Australia's new trade agreement with India.

Temporary closure of the New Zealand Stream visa until 1 July 2023

The Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa (New Zealand Stream) is temporarily closed to new applications from 10 December 2022 to 1 July 2023 while the Government considers future migration and citizenship pathways for New Zealand citizens already living in Australia. Applications already lodged will continue to be processed.

There is some great news for those who have already lodged applications. With the processing time currently estimated at 25 months, the Department of Home Affairs has established a dedicated taskforce to finalise the majority of these applications during the closure. Streamlining measures have also been introduced, removing the following visa criteria:

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This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.

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