Pacific Australia Labour Mobility stream (subclass 403)
The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme offers a unique opportunity for individuals to work in Australia, and for Australian employers to sponsor workers from specified Pacific Island countries. Let's delve into the details of this visa.
The PALM visa is a temporary visa designed for two main categories of workers: seasonal workers and long-term (non-seasonal) workers. Seasonal workers can stay for up to 9 months during each seasonal work contract, with a mandatory 3-month break before returning. Long-term workers, on the other hand, can stay for up to 4 years, aligning with their employment contract’s length.
For those who wish to extend their stay, applying for a new PALM stream visa is an option. However, certain eligibility criteria must be met, such as holding a Subclass 403 visa in the PALM, SWP, or PLS streams, sponsorship by a Temporary Activities Sponsor approved by DFAT, and program eligibility, including language skills and offshore periods.
The cost of a PALM visa is AUD335.00, but additional expenses for health checks and police certificates may apply. The Visa Pricing Estimator can help determine your exact visa cost.
PALM visa holders must adhere to specific conditions, including staying employed with their Temporary Activities Sponsor or an Approved Employer supported by DFAT. They are only allowed to work in the position and industry they were approved for and should not engage in self-employment or work for any entity other than their sponsor. Various visa conditions may be attached to ensure compliance with Australian laws.
The processing time for PALM visas is not specified, but the duration can be influenced by how accurately the application is completed, document submission, information verification, and timely payment of the visa application charge.
To be eligible for a PALM visa, applicants must be at least 21 years old, citizens and residents of specified Pacific Island countries, and supported by DFAT for participation in the PALM scheme. An Offer of Employment and sponsorship by an Approved Employer are also prerequisites. Adequate health insurance is required, and applicants must demonstrate a genuine intention for temporary stay in Australia.
TRAVEL
Holders of PALM visas can travel in and out of Australia as many times as needed, as long as they have an active employment contract under the PALM scheme.
VISA LABEL
Visa labels are not issued; instead, the visa is electronically linked to the passport. Any change of passport must be promptly reported to the Department using ImmiAccount.
FOR SPONSORS (ELIGIBILITY)
For sponsors, the process involves becoming an approved Temporary Activities Sponsor and recruiting workers for eligible industries in rural and regional locations. To be an Approved Employer in the PALM scheme, DFAT endorsement is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you may apply for a PALM stream visa in Australia if you are transitioning to a long-term (non-seasonal) work placement under the PALM scheme.
Unfortunately, family members cannot accompany you on this visa.
To extend your stay, you must apply for a new PALM stream visa, meeting specific eligibility criteria.
PALM visa holders are required to maintain employment with their sponsor, adhere to visa conditions and Australian laws, and comply with any attached conditions.
The visa cost is AUD335.00, with potential additional expenses for health checks and police certificates. The Visa Pricing Estimator can help determine your exact visa cost.
Employment changes are possible, but they require approval from DFAT and both the previous and new employers must be Approved Employers.
Your immigration history will be considered when applying for a PALM visa. Previous visa cancellations or refusals may affect your eligibility.
Currently, there are no frequently asked questions available for the Aged Dependent Relative Visa (Subclass 114).