Why the 457 visa is being axed?

After two decades and tens of thousands of visas, the 457 visa category has been abolished. But what was it and why does this matter?The program was introduced by the Howard government in 1996.The four-year visa allowed foreign workers to fill jobs here in more than 650 occupations, including sectors that have experienced oversupply of labour.Visa holders could also bring family members to Australia on a 457 secondary visa.This includes a two-year visa - which can be renewed for another two years - and a four-year visa targeted at specific high-level skills.Both visas demand at least two years of relevant work experience, something not required under the 457 scheme, while the longer visa calls for higher standards of English proficiency.There are also changes to the permanent residency arrangements under the new scheme - previously, 457 visa holders could be eligible for permanent residency after two years.We have interviewed Sydney based lawyer Dr Nazir Dawaar and you can listen to the full interview here.

migrant job search AAP-1 Source: migrant job search AAP-1