Changes to 457 visa

2017-7-02

English language requirements

The English Language Salary Exemption Threshold (ELSET) which exempted applicants (whose salary was over AUD$96,400) from the English language requirement has been removed for applications lodged on or after 1 July 2017.

As a result, English language test results must be provided for applications lodged on or after 1 July 2017 unless:

• the person is an employee of an overseas business who is coming to Australia to work for that company or their associated entity and they have a nominated base rate of pay of at least AUD$96,400
• any of the other current English language exemptions apply (for example, certain passport country holders who do not require English language testing).

Mandatory skills assessments

The Department of Education and Training’s Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) 457 skills assessment program  will be expanded to include some additional nationalities for a small number of existing occupations. TRA’s website is being updated to reflect this reform which will only impact on applications lodged on or after 1 July 2017. Where required, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection retains its discretion to request skills assessments for any pending or new applications.

Visa validity

Visa validity policy now specifies that a subclass 457 visa may be granted for up to 4 years for occupations listed on the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) if requested by the sponsor and required to meet international trade obligations.