Why to move to Australia?
For a very long time Australia has been one of top migration destinations. Those who have visited the country are well aware of opportunities Australia provides, great weather, incredible landscapes, lots of space and generally a better quality of life. Those who have never been, are taking the plunge to immigrate to Australia permanently.
What steps I need to complete?
When emigrating to another country, there is a lot to think about, from getting the right visa to shipping, transferring funds, finding schools for children to securing jobs. While those steps can be achieved in a relatively short time, it is securing the Visa that is the most challenging step for many aspiring migrants.
How to apply for the right Visa?
The Australian Migration Laws and Regulations are complex and constantly changing. Those who feel confident can apply for the Visa themselves. Many prospective applicants however choose to seek a professional advice from a qualified Australian Immigration Agent or Lawyer.
What Visa to apply to?
- Get sponsored by an Australian employer - you need a job offer in an occupation which is currently listed on the relevant Employer Sponsored visa. There are three different lists, so you need to pay attention to which lists your occupation appears in. The list of occupations can be found here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list. In addition, both the employer and the applicant must meet a number of other criteria. Speaking to an Australian Immigration Agent is extremely beneficial for those who secured a job offer in Australia. The agent will advise you on all aspects of the application and assist with the relevant paperwork. The employer sponsored visa can be for up to 2 or 4 years’ duration or a permanent one.
- Apply for the Skilled Migrant Visa – if you don’t have a job offer or you don’t want to be tied to an employer, you can look into applying for the Skilled Migrant Visa. This visa is ‘points tested’ and the current visa pass mark is 65 points, though higher scores might be required in some cases. You can calculate your points here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/skilled-independent-189/points-table. Your occupation has to be on the current skilled occupation list. In most cases, you need to have relevant qualifications and work experience as well as a high level of English language. The Skilled Migrant visa comes in 3 streams: Independent, State Sponsored and State Regional. An Australian Immigration agent or lawyer can explain how to apply for Visa points and which Skilled Migrant Visa is your best and most viable Visa to achieve.
- Get sponsored by a Partner Or Spouse – if your partner or spouse is an Australian Citizen or Permanent visa holder, you can apply for the Partner or Spouse Visa. Those in a long-term relationship may be granted a Permanent residency visa outright. Otherwise, applicants are given a temporary visa leading to residency, usually within 2-3 years if the relationship continues. There are a number of documents you need to provide to prove your relationship is genuine and ongoing. Many couples these days have limited evidence of their relationship, but there might be way to get round it. An experienced Australian Immigration agent or lawyer can advise you on your options and help you to prepare your case.
- If you have a child in Australia- you can apply for the Parent visa. There are at least 5 different Parent Visa options. Some Parent visas can be expensive and some have very long processing times. Having an Australian Immigration specialist to help you to choose the correct Visa matching your individual circumstances will be invaluable.
- Studying in Australia – this might be an option for those who wish to combine experience of living in a different country with furthering their education. A Study visa will allow you remain in Australia for the duration of your course. You course must be registered with the Australian Department of Education and Training (CRICOS: http://cricos.education.gov.au/ ). The Study Visa comes with limited work rights. Studying in Australia does not automatically entitle you to remain in the country upon completion of the course, though some might have further visa options.
- Fancy a gap year? – If you are thinking of taking a time off to travel, a Working Holiday Visa is an ideal option for you. You must have a passport from the relevant country to apply. You need to be between 18 and 30 to apply, unless you have an Irish or Canadian passport where you can apply up to 35 years of age.
Medical conditions
All Visas require applicants to be in good health and have no character issues (that is, a police record). Applicants with medical conditions are recommended to seek advice from an Australian Immigration expert to discuss how the condition might impact chances of securing the visa.
Police records
In December 2014 the Australian government made several changes to character related legislation and policy, reflecting the high priority the government places on protecting the Australian community from the risk of harm.
Applicants with a police record, no matter how old, removed or not, may wish to discuss their Visa application with a Visa expert. The best Australian Immigration Agents and Lawyers have experience in handling Visa applications with character issues. Our team from Emigrate-to-Australia.co.uk hassuccessfully handled a number of Visa applications for clients with a criminal record covering variety of offences.
Applying for a Visa to Australia can be a complex and lengthy process. Having an Australian Immigration advisor to handle the case for you will save time and alleviate stress associated with a relocation to a new country. Whist the Visa process can be challenging, the Australian visa grant is the most rewarding and happiest accomplishment for many applicants.
To discuss your individual Australian Visa application, please contact our Australian Immigration and Visa experts on 0207 427 5676 or by email: enquiries@emigrate-to-australia.co.uk
