The Global Talent Scheme (GTS) was introduced as a 12 month pilot program for established businesses and specialised start-ups in July 2018.

The GTS has been promoted largely to the tech industry as an opportunity for Australian businesses to access priority processing of 4 year visas and to create a pathway to permanent residence for certain visa holders who may not otherwise be eligible.

The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that the pilot program will continue in its current form, while it undertakes a review and until the Government reaches a decision on the future of the GTS. Requests for GTS may therefore continue to be lodged after the initial end date of 30 June 2019.

Only fourteen companies have qualified under GTS, including some non-tech companies. Irrespective of the outcome of the review, companies with signed GTS agreements will be able to access TSS and ENS for 5 years from the date of their agreements.

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