Hi Lace
technically a lot of criteria are time of decision criteria but they relate back to the circumstances that existed at time of application - So, Practically speaking, nearly everything on the points side of things is as it is at time of application:
Age is at time of application Threshold recent work experience and specific work experience relate to periods up to the date of the application. MODL points can be at time of application and-or time of decision, whichever is in your favour.
So the scoring of points is pretty much as at time of application with a possibilty of picking up extra points if your occupation comes onto the MODL list but keeping the 15 points if it comes off after you have applied.
The pbutt-mark is a bit more frightening with legislation in place that states that that you must meet the pbutt-mark that exists at time of decision. In the past this has been devastating when an increase of the pbutt-mark always occurred without notice and was retrospective - Except the last time it increased. The last increase in April 2004 was announced a week before it happened and DIMIA allowed all applications received before the change date to be considered under the low pbutt-mark and only applications received after the change date to be considered under the newer higher pbutt mark. However, there is no guarantee that DIMIA will act fairly (and out of character) in any future pbutt mark hike so this has to remain a possible worry to you.
Health and character is also something that has to be met at time of decision. Dependent children included in the application have to be under 18 (or financially dependent) at time of decision.
So keep worrying a little until the visa is in your hand.
Tony
--
