The 457 visa has changed again.

The 2009 summary of changes for the 457 visa include:

• 27 February: benefit to Australia requirements
• 14 April: IELTS English language test increased
• 15 May: Extended Labour Agreement capacity to ASCO 5-7 occupations
• 27 June: attestation by employer
• 1 July: minimum salary levels changed and skills assessments introduced

For most of you this will all be a load of gibberish. For us it’s an absolute nightmare. Migration agents don’t get a lot of sympathy generally but, hopefully, we will get a little sympathy when it comes to the 457 visa, especially considering that significant changes occurred again on 14 September 2009.

If you have a lot of spare time or are slightly unbalanced, you may wish to read through the volumes of information on the 457 visa on the Department’s website. Alternatively, contact Ross Relocation Services.