The 2023–24 Permanent Migration Program has allocated 30,375 places for Skilled Independent visas. This is comparable to the 2022–23 program allocation of 32,100 places.
The smaller planning level for this category in 2023–24 reflects the closure of the New Zealand stream of subclass 189 (Skilled – Independent) visa from 1 July 2023. This is due to a new direct pathway to citizenship for Special Category Visa holders who meet citizenship eligibility requirements.
Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) visa category
The Government has reduced the planning level for the BIIP from 5000 visas in 2022–23 to 1900 visas for the 2023–24 permanent Migration Program.
Reducing the planning level for BIIP will ensure the 2023–24 permanent Migration Program has a greater focus on addressing immediate workforce shortages. It will continue to provide places to those business and investor migrants who can best contribute to Australia’s economic growth. It will also provide places to entrepreneur migrants whose innovations can increase the productivity of Australian businesses.
Global Talent visa category
The 2023–24 permanent Migration Program has maintained 5000 places for the Global Talent Visa Program.
Retaining the planning level ensures that while the permanent Migration Program focuses on addressing persistent skill shortages, Australia maintains the status as a competitive and preferred destination to internationally mobile exceptional talent. Read more about the 858 visa here.
Family stream
The Government has maintained the size of the family stream. The Australian Government recognises that immigrant parents can make valuable social contributions to their families and local communities. The biggest part of this is the partner visa program.
In 2022–23, the size of the Parent program increased from 4500 to 8500 places while the Other Family (the Aged Dependent Relative, Remaining Relative and Carer programs) visa category was maintained at 500 places. The Government has maintained these planning levels in the 2023–24 permanent Migration Program. Read more about how you can sponsor your parents or partner to come to live in Australia.
Looking to migrate to Australia or apply for a permanent visa to live and work here? Let us help you get started with the best advice on your application, contact AustraliaMigrate today for premium advice and assistance from our registered migration agents.
