The Global Talent Independent Visa program aims to attract top talent in certain critical sectors.

One of the requirements for the GTIP is that the applicant can demonstrate they will be able to earn above the Fair Work High Income Threshold (FWHIT) (currently AU$153,600 ex super and bonuses per annum) in Australia. This can be demonstrated with evidence of current earnings, future job offers or market salary research which we assist our clients with.

The threshold amount can be sometimes challenging for recent graduates however those with PhDs may be able to get around it.  Since its launch, the GTI program has attracted lots of recent graduates but from 20 January 2021, students nearing completion date and graduates of Masters by Coursework, Masters by Research and Bachelor with Honours are no longer eligible for invitation to the GTI program solely on the basis of their qualifications. This includes candidates who submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) prior to this date.  Those who received an invitation before the cut-off date are still eligible to apply.

PhD graduates and certain PhD students may still be eligible to apply for the GTI Program if they can demonstrate exceptional talent and international recognition in a target sector. In addition, PhD students who are nearing completion of their degree must be able to demonstrate they had a record of achievement prior to commencing their PhD studies.

To be eligible for the GTI Program, individuals must demonstrate that they:

• are internationally recognised with evidence of exceptional and outstanding achievements in the target sector;
• are currently prominent in the target sector;
• would be an asset to the Australian community;
• would have no difficulty in obtaining employment in Australia, or becoming established independently in Australia in the target sector;
• likely to earn an annual salary that meets the Fair Work High Income Threshold (currently AU$153,600); and
• have an Australian citizen or permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen or Australian organisation with a national reputation in the same target sector prepared to endorse their credentials in the field.

Ajuria’s dedicated Global Talent Visa team has successfully lodged many applications for Global Talent Visas including for recent graduates and are now seen as some of the leading experts in this specialised area.

If you have questions or want to learn more about how the Global Talent visa could help you, please contact your Ajuria lawyer.

If you are an employer and are interested in offering this pathway for your staff, we would love to help!

How do I get an assessment done to see if I am eligible for the Global Talent visa?

The first thing is to contact our office and speak to one of our GTIP specialist lawyers. You can book an appointment here.

DISCLAIMER This information is current as of 12 February 2021 and subject to change. The information contained in this publication is of a general nature only. It should not be used as legal advice. To the extent permissible by law, Ajuria Lawyers and its associated entities shall not be liable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the information or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who use or rely on such information. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

Have more specific questions about your visa? Get in touch with Ajuria Lawyers today.

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