Raul Senise

They do not respond to emails asking about progress with processing of an application.

Most Registered Migration Agents do not offer free consultations, unless they are new to the industry and trying to gain experience. Free consultations are more often used by unregistered operators. The old saying "you get what you pay for" is generally true in this situation. The Migration Regulations, Act and Policy have become very complex. To do a consultation properly often includes detailed research, which takes time.

Yes, that is possible.

It is beyond the published standard processing times of 12 to 13 months.

That's not really true as each would be a client in their own right. There would need to be a contract between the Agent and the employer and the Agent and the visa applicant. In these cases I make it very clear to each party that they are each a client in their own right and I cannot disclose confidential information from either party to the other. I work in the interest of both parties to obtain a successful outcome.

I would recommend that your son obtain professional advice on planning a viable visa pathway forward, based on his specific circumstances. Second hand advice from his father, based on second hand advice from a public forum, based on very scant details, is probably not ideal.

Your situation can be complex to navigate and you should speak with you Migration Agent for instructions on how to proceed.

TRA skills assessments can be difficult and require a lot of documentation. The chance of success will depend on the specifics of your qualifications and experience. As there is a technical interview component, the outcome will also depend on you.

Unfortunately, this is not uncommon. Many of the "agents" working for the colleges are student agents or overseas operators. Student Agents are not allowed to give Migration advice, but unfortunately often do to sell courses. Overseas operators are not regulated in any way and can do or say anything. A Registered Migration Agent is not allowed to guarantee any outcome as this is against the very strict code of conduct which we are regulated by. The reality of the situation is that obtaining a student visa and studying in Australia, does not guarantee a Permanent Visa outcome in the future.

I would suggest obtaining advice from a human Registered in the field.

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There are rumors circulating that there may be a round before the end of the year.

Not that it is not an extension. If your visa is expiring, a whole new application would be required, providing all documentation again. There is no age restriction on the subclass 482 visa. You can transfer your current visa to a different employer/sponsor at any time, provided all requirements can be met. If your intention is to apply for Permanent Residency, it may be difficult after the age of 45 as there are only limited exemptions available.

It depends which stage of the JRP you have completed. It sounds like you have only completed stage 1 which is a provisional assessment. Your Agent would be in the best position to correctly advise you.

The Regulations and Policy regarding when one is considered skilled can be complex and vary between different occupations. If you are not sure, you should consider professional advice.