Visa Processing Update for Delays Temporary and Permanent Residence (PR) Applications
As we approach the end of the year, significant delays and inconsistencies in visa processing are observed across many categories. The Department of Home Affairs has reiterated that no priority requests will be accommodated, even in urgent situations, and that escalation requests contribute to system congestion.
What Is Causing the Delayed Visa Processing Time?
Increased Workload: Case officers are managing higher volumes of applications with fewer resources, likely in preparation for upcoming changes to the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) (Subclass 482) and Permanent Residence (PR) programs.
What are the Current estimated processing times?
TSS (Subclass 482) Work Visa
Non-Accredited Sponsors: Up to 6 months
Accredited Sponsors: Up to 3 months
Permanent Residence (PR) Applications
Processing times for permanent residence visa grants have been extended beyond 12 months. Although some business nominations are still being approved, visa grants are facing delays. This has led to expired police clearances and health exam results, requiring applicants to resubmit.
Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) (Subclass 400) Visa
These visas are processed by offshore Embassies/High Commissions, with timelines varying by location. Most applications from Europe and the Americas take 1-3 weeks, while processing times in other regions may be longer. Notably, there is a heightened refusal rate for these applications.
Medical Examination Delays
There are ongoing delays in securing medical examination bookings in Australia, which are causing further delays in visa grants, as visas cannot be issued until medical assessments are completed.
Tips for Business Sponsors and Visa Applicants
Lodging Applications Early: Businesses are advised to submit TSS renewals and PR applications as soon as possible. The government has indicated that changes to the migration program will take effect in late November 2024. Although the specifics of these changes are not yet known, there are concerns about how they might impact employees.
Transitioning TSS Visa Holders: Given the uncertainty, businesses may want to consider transitioning TSS visa holders to permanent residency before implementing changes.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
Applicants are facing challenges in navigating this complex visa landscape, especially with the rising processing times for various visa subclasses and seeking professional visa guidance; our Accredited Specialist Immigration Lawyer(s) and our immigration lawyers and migration agents at Agape Henry Crux specialise in handling highly complex matters. You can schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. We can also help you arrange an interpreter if this isn't your language.
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