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Predicated changes for Australia

Every year at around this time, the Australian immigration industry begins to look towards the start of the new migration year in an attempt to second guess any changes that might effect the immigration system

The new year starts on 1st July. Of course, some changes could affect those of you currently weighing up the pros and cons of submitting an application.

According to Alan Collett of Go Matilda, one of the key changes he believes will be made to the current system will focus on the points scored for English language. Currently, a maximum of 20 points are available through the Skilled-Independent visa for English language, with an assumption made that passport holders from the UK, Ireland, The USA, Canada and NZ can speak the language fluently so can claim 20 points towards a visa. However, Collett believes that, while the total points for the English language factor may be raised to 25, passport holders from the aforementioned countries will only be awarded 15 points without taking an IELTS test to get the full 25 - a loss of five points, which could prove crucial on an application.

Among other possible tweaks to the system predicted by Collett are changes to make it possible for same sex partners to be included as de facto partners on a General Skilled visa application, and the cessation of Melbourne being classed as a designated area for the Skilled-Designated Area Sponsored visa.

To read more predictions from Alan Collett, see the May edition of Emigrate Australia

For further information:
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13 April 2007