IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? Australia has eliminated several family visa classes and subclasses.

What does the change mean? As of 2 June, applicants will no longer be able to apply for the Aged Dependent Relative visa classes and subclasses, the Remaining Relative visa classes and subclasses, the Carer visa classes and subclasses, or the Parent and Aged Parent visa classes and subclasses. The Contributory Parent visa subclasses will still be available.

  • Implementation timeframe: 2 June.
  • Visas/permits affected: Aged Dependent Relative, Remaining Relative, Carer, and Parent and Aged Parent visa classes and subclasses.
  • Who is affected: Foreign nationals applying in the above categories.
  • Impact on processing times: 
  • Business impact: While not a direct corporate impact,the elimination of these categories will impact many foreign assignees who will no longer be able to sponsor family members.
  • Next steps: Individuals should work with their legal and migration experts to find possible alternatives to bring family members, such as the Contributory Parent or Contributory Aged Parent categories, which remain as options.

Background: On 29 May, the Australian Government adopted Legislative Instrument No. 65, 2014, repealing four visa classes and eight visa subclasses that provide for permanent residence for certain family members of principal foreign nationals.

As of Monday, 2 June, the following family categories are eliminated:

  • Aged Dependent Relative visa classes and subclasses
  • Remaining Relative visa classes and subclasses
  • Carer visa classes and subclasses
  • Parent and Aged Parent visa classes and subclasses

Note that the Contributory Parent visa subclasses have not been eliminated and eligible individuals may still apply in these categories:

  • Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173)
  • Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143)
  • Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 884)
  • Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864)

BAL Analysis: This is a sudden change with little notice that will have a negative impact on the flexibility of foreign nationals to apply for permanent residency for certain family members.

This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.

MARN: 9683856

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