Archive for September 17th, 2009

The Australian Department of Immigration has introduced new rules for all Australian 457 (temporary work visa) applicants.

The new rules include:

• Enhanced Sponsorship Obligations: The employer will be expected to assist the Government if site visits are proposed, and to cover the costs of return travel, and other costs incurred by the Government, if the visa applicant becomes unlawful. The sponsor must also maintain records of the employment and make these available when requested. A sponsor may be fined or barred for failing to meet any obligations.
• A new system for the payment of salary to Subclass 457 visa holders: Employers will be expected to pay overseas employees standard market salary rates that would normally be paid to an Australian in the same position. A salary of less than AUD$45,220 will not be acceptable. If the market salary rate is below this threshold the visa application will normally be refused.
• New arrangements for the payment of health costs for 457 visa holders: Visa applicants will have to obtain health insurance for the duration of their visa at the time of their visa application.

Click here for more information about the new 457 visa rules.