Cap and Cease arrangements revealed for offshore General Skilled Migration visa applicants

Assistant Migration Minister Senator Cash has set a cap for offshore General Skilled Migration visas, which took effect on 22nd September this year.

The following offshore GSM visas can be affected:

Skilled Independent Subclass 175
Skilled Sponsored Subclass 176
Skilled Regional Sponsored Subclass 475

The visa applications effected are primarily made up of Skilled Regional Sponsored (Family) Subclass 475. These applications are affected by the Cap and Cease arrangements implemented by Senator Cash. The number of places for Regional Sponsored (Family) Subclass 475 to be granted in the 2015-16 financial year has already been met. Therefore all other existing applications will not be processed and a refund can be requested.

To apply for this refund, applicants are asked to complete Form 1424 – Refund Request. Once signed and completed, you can email your form to . It will take about 15 weeks for the DIBP to return the funds.

More information about the Cap and Cease can be found on the Australian Government website.