The federal government is expected to confirm whether it will relax English-language rules for skilled migrants under a review of the 457 visa scheme.

That review called for a relaxing of language requirements for migrants – which the government has previously hinted it would adopt.

It’s also warmed to making the scheme easier for companies with a proven track-record of compliance, either through sponsorship renewals or making it illegal for sponsors to get paid by applicants.

Employers will still have to advertise jobs locally before hiring skilled workers from overseas.  Assistant Immigration minister Michaelia Cash said there will be penalties imposed on businesses that accept payments in exchange for sponsoring visa holders.

“We will proactively prosecute and name and shame offenders exploiting overseas workers and misusing the program,” she told News Corp.

Unions are opposed to any changes that could raise an already high unemployment rate.