Australia/United Kingdom: Free Trade Agreement to Bring Immigration Benefits

The Australia/United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement went into force May 31, 2023 and will provide for the following benefits to travelers of each nationality to the other country: starting July 1, 2023, the age limit for UK citizens who want to apply for Australia's Working Holiday Visa will increase to 35 (up from 30). Starting July 1, 2024, UK citizens eligible for this visa in Australia will also be able to stay in Australia for a total of three years without having to meet specified work requirements. Starting January 31, 2024, the age limit for Australian citizens seeking to enter the United Kingdom under the Youth Mobility Scheme will also increase from 30 to 35, and applicants will be able to extend their stay for up to a total stay of three years (up from the current limit of two years). Other commitments include the proposed removal of labour market testing for UK nationals seeking to enter Australia for work. We are monitoring these topics and will report on related developments.