The Minister of Religion Labour Agreement (MoRLA) has undergone significant updates, providing a more efficient and streamlined approach for religious institutions seeking to employ overseas ministers and religious assistants. These changes aim to speed up processing times and offer clearer pathways to permanent residence for workers in these roles.

What’s New in the MoRLA?

The updated MoRLA simplifies the application process for religious organizations and offers faster routes to permanent residence. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and requirements:

1. Simplified Application Process: Until the online system is updated, applicants will need to enter “n/a” in the nominee section of the form. This temporary measure ensures that you can proceed with your application smoothly. The Department of Home Affairs expects the updated request form to be available in early 2025.
2. No Labour Market Testing: Organizations seeking to hire overseas workers under the MoRLA no longer need to conduct labour market testing. Instead, they must provide a justification explaining why the position cannot be filled by an Australian worker, given the unique skills required for the role.
3. Occupational Requirements: The main occupations eligible under MoRLA are:
   • Minister of Religion (ANZSCO 272211)
   • Religious Assistant (ANZSCO 451816)

   These roles must meet the specific definitions outlined in the labour agreement program.

4. Salary Considerations: For Ministers of Religion, salary requirements are flexible:
   • Standard skilled visa salary applies, but non-monetary benefits (such as housing) can contribute up to 10% of the total salary calculation.
   • For workers with a vow of poverty or vow of service, salary concessions may be granted.
   • Religious Assistants must meet the standard salary requirements, with no concessions available based on religious vows.
5. Skills and Qualifications: To be nominated for a Minister of Religion position, candidates must:
   • Have been ordained or have professed a religious life.
   • Hold qualifications equivalent to an AQF bachelor degree or have completed at least five years of relevant structured training.
   • If qualifications or training are not met, candidates must have at least five years of relevant work experience.

   For Religious Assistants, candidates must either:

   • Hold qualifications equivalent to an AQF Certificate II or III (ANZSCO Skill Level 4) or
   • Have at least two years of relevant work experience.
6. English Language Requirements: Applicants must meet the standard English language proficiency requirements for Skills In Demand (subclass 482) or Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visas. However, exceptions apply for workers in cloistered or monastic environments, where English proficiency may not be required.
7. Permanent Residence Pathway: After two years of employment under the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, workers can apply for permanent residence. This is especially true for those employed in senior positions, such as Archbishops or equivalent roles, who have been ordained for at least five years.
8. Age Limit for Permanent Residency: For the ENS visa, applicants must be under 60 years of age at the time of lodging the application. There is no age limit for Skills In Demand (subclass 482) visa applications.
9. Additional Requirements:
   • The organization must be a registered religious institution and must provide evidence of its charitable status.
   • Salaries must be paid from the organization’s Australian bank account.
   • The Department will not consider a MoRLA request if any immigration matter for a nominee is pending.

How MRG Global Can Help

If you are looking to migrate to Australia under the Minister of Religion Labour Agreement, MRG Global is your trusted partner. We specialize in assisting religious institutions and candidates navigate the complexities of the MoRLA process and secure permanent residency pathways for religious professionals and assistants.

Whether you are seeking guidance on the visa application process, need help with English language requirements, or want advice on your immigration options, MRG Global is here to assist you every step of the way. Our team of experts will ensure that your application is handled efficiently and accurately.

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