As a result of the latest developments in Australia’s response to COVID-19, the Acting Minister for Immigration, Alan Tudge, has announced that there are 17 occupations in a new Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List. This will allow individuals with the relevant qualifications to enter Australia to assist in the country’s health and economic recovery to COVID-19.

Importantly, visa holders who have been sponsored by an Australian business in an occupation on a Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List can request an exemption for current travel restrictions within Australia, however, they will be required to a 14 day quarantine upon arrival, at their own expense.

Existing skilled migration lists will remain active and visa applications will still be processed; however, priority will be given to the occupations on the new Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List.

There requirement for labour market testing to sponsor applications in the occupations listed in the new Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List will remain.

 

New Skilled Occupation List 

The main occupations listed include:

• Chief Executive or Managing Director
• Construction Project Manager
• Mechanical Engineer
• General Practitioner
• Resident Medical Officer
• Psychiatrist
• Medical Practitioner nec
• Midwife
• Registered Nurse – various specialties
• Developer Programmer (261312)
• Software Engineer (261313)
• Maintenance Planner (312911)

A full list of occupations on this list and the relevant ANZSCO codes can be accessed here .

 

How we can help

If you require any further information regarding gaining a visa based on an occupation referred to above, please do not hesitate to contact us to speak with our experienced team of migration lawyers here at Ramsden Lawyers, and we would be pleased to help you in these uncertain times.