Oceania
Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and more
Countries
Latest Updates
Australia Updates Skilled Visa Salary Thresholds
The minimum income requirements for employer-sponsored visas will increase by 3.9%, with the Core Skills threshold rising to AUD 79,499. These changes affect the Employer Nomination Scheme and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme, impacting eligibility for future applicants and renewals.
New Zealand Updates Deportation and Enforcement Rules
New legislation extends the deportation liability period for serious criminal offenses from 10 to 20 years and increases penalties for migrant exploitation. The rules also grant authorities wider powers to act against individuals providing false information on visa applications.
Australia Updates Travel Rules for Temporary Visa Holders
Under the new Section 84B of the Migration Act, the Australian government can now temporarily suspend travel rights for specific classes of temporary visas even after they have been issued. Travelers and digital nomads may face 'Do Not Board' instructions at airports if their visa class is affected by an active Arrival Control Determination.
New Zealand Updates Skilled Occupation List and Wage Thresholds
Starting March 9, 2026, New Zealand will add 47 roles to its skilled occupation list while raising the immigration median wage to NZD $35 per hour. These changes will impact eligibility for the Accredited Employer Work Visa and introduce stricter requirements for specific service roles.
Fiji Considers Lifting Residency Rules for Overseas Candidates
Fiji is considering scrapping the two-year residency rule for overseas-based iTaukei individuals seeking to run for office. While primarily political, this debate highlights potential shifts in how Fiji treats the residency status and legal rights of its diaspora and long-term expatriates.
New Zealand Updates Open Work Visa Conditions
Starting April 2026, New Zealand will categorize open work visas into two types: those allowing self-employment and those restricted to employer-based work. This change will clarify legal activities for freelancers and business owners, with transitional rules for existing visa holders.
Inside New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category Reforms
The New Zealand government is introducing new pathways for skilled workers and tradespeople, reducing work experience requirements from three to two years. These changes, effective August 2026, will also remove wage uplift obligations and increase points for local qualifications, easing the path to residency.
Why New Zealand's Median Wage Changes Matter for Digital Nomads
New Zealand has raised the immigration median wage to NZD 35.00 per hour, affecting Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) requirements and residency pathways. Additionally, 47 occupations have been added to the National Occupation List, changing how certain roles are classified for visa processing.
How New Zealand’s Australian Transit Program Works for Travelers
A 12-month trial allows eligible Chinese and Pacific visitors arriving from Australia to enter New Zealand using the NZeTA instead of a traditional visitor visa. This pathway significantly reduces processing times and costs for travelers moving between the two countries.
Australia Tightens Post-Study Work Rules for International Graduates
Starting July 1, 2024, the age limit for the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa will drop from 50 to 35. The update also shortens stay durations for most graduates, significantly impacting long-term residency paths for older international professionals and nomads.