Immigration Advice Work Permits

November 11, 2009

Australian immigration – the facts

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Working Abroad — New Thirteen @ 10:52 am

The Australian Department of Immigration deals with businesses and private clients who have immigration issues in Australia. The team is composed of highly trained MARA consultants and former immigration officers who are best qualified to help applicants understand the country’s immigration policies.

Australian immigration had seen a substantial growth in the past 15 years and among the millions of immigrants are families becoming reunited and skilled workers. The number of Immigrants rose from 30,000 in 1992-93 to 177,600 in 2006-07. In current 2008-09 year, Australian visa figures are still quite high, at 115,000, mainly because the nation has managed to avoid the worst effects of the recession, unlike many other parts of the world.

Most skilled workers are from the UK, at an estimated 1.1 million, while Irish immigrants total only 57,338. One of the reasons why the employment level in Australia has grown is the huge number of skilled immigrants who have moved into the country.

Australia has an extensive list of temporary and permanent visas for skilled, unskilled and family immigrants, Australia Spouse Visa, Australia Child Visa, Australia Parent Visa, Australia Remaining Relative Visa, Australia Business Owner (Provisional) Visa, Australia Senior Executive (Provisional) Visa, Australia Investor (Provisional) Visa, Australia State/Territory Sponsored Business Owner (Provisional) Visa, Australia State/ Territory Sponsored Senior Executive (Provisional) Visa, Australia State/Territory Sponsored Investor (Provisional) Visa, Australia State/ Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa, Australia Skilled (Independent) Visa, Australia Skilled (Sponsored) Visa, Prospective Marriage Visa Australia, Spouse (Provisional) Visa Australia, Investor Retirement Visa Australia, Working Holiday Visa Australia, Educational Visa Australia, Entertainment Visa Australia, Sport Visa Australia, Dependent Child Visa Australia, Australia Business (Short Stay) Visa, Australia Business (Long stay) Work Visa, Australia Sponsored Business Visitor (Short Stay) Visa, Australia Skilled – Recognised Graduate Visa, Australia Skilled – Graduate Visa, Skilled-Regional Sponsored Visa Australia and Australia Skilled-Independent Regional (Provisional) Visa.

October 28, 2009

Australia Visa Guide

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Visa Applications, Working Abroad — New Thirteen @ 11:56 am

If you wish to live and work in Australia, the following are the types of visas you might consider, the skilled independent visa, skilled sponsored visa, spouse visa, contributory parent visa, De Facto visa, last remaining relative visa and prospective marriage visa.

The skilled migration visa is one of the best ways to enter Australia. This is because skilled workers can easily fulfil and complete the requirements for a permanent Australia visa. Applicants can use their skills, work experience and language proficiency.

The Australian General Skilled Migration programme is intended for people who don’t have firm employment contracts, but have the expertise required in the Australian labour force. There are certain requirements, one of which is that the work experience and skills must qualify for Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.

Recently, the programme has highlighted the importance of effective English skills, so more points are awarded to proficient English speakers. There are two different categories of visa, sponsored and independent.

Sponsored visas have more requirements than independent visas. People who apply for this particular version must be sponsored by an Australian relative or by the Australian government. In addition a bond has to be paid.

Independent visas are issued to applicants who have the necessary skills and qualifications, but do not have employment contracts. Since they are more likely to meet the requirements, they have fewer restrictions and are considered to be the preferred category of skilled workers.

Australia visa have subclasses that are assessed on the basis of a points system. Applicants who fail to reach the number of points required are listed on the reserve pool in case the system is amended at some point.

October 16, 2009

Living in Australia

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Visa Applications — New Thirteen @ 11:19 am

Over the years, Australia has attracted millions of immigrants. The usual procedure for a candidate is to apply in his or her country of origin. The process is completed when the applicant has successfully complied with the Australian Immigration Laws during his or her stay in the country. However, the Australian Immigration service is strict in applying both the rules and the quotas. Many factors, such as professional skills, work experience and English language skills are considered. The system has become more challenging and demanding in recent years and the process now requires considerable time and effort to be expended by the applicant.

Australia offers several visas for skilled workers, including the Skilled Independent Regional Visa, Skilled Independent Visa, Skilled Sponsored Visa and the Employer Nomination Scheme. The rules for these visas are always changing and being updated.

The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship is responsible for the implementation of the various requirements for an Australian Skilled Visa. It is advisable to apply for this type of visa as soon as possible, because new criteria are always being introduced. Of course, the main requirement for obtaining this visa remains the same, which is to possess skills currently in short supply in Australia. In addition, the government needs to be sure that immigrants will help boost the economy and not be a burden on society.

Australia promises tremendous advantages, with its rich culture and traditions, which are admirable and a source of great pride for the country. It provides many benefits to its citizens, such as excellent education, comprehensive medical and dental facilities, low levels of crime, high standard of living and a wonderful natural environment.

The government issues Family Visas to those who have relatives living in Australia. One way to obtain a family visa is to apply for the Contributory Parent Visa or the Last Remaining Relative Visa.

The Last Remaining Relative Visa is an Australian permanent residence visa, intended for anyone who wants to settle there because they have no other close relatives in their country of origin. The Contributory Parent Visa is designed for those whose children are living in Australia and can meet sponsorship requirements.

Spouse Visa, De Facto Visa and Prospective Marriage Visa are other ways by which a spouse or single person can join his or her loved ones in Australia. In the case of the Prospective Marriage Visa, applicants are usually engaged to be married to Australian citizens, permanent residents or even to holders of eligible New Zealand passports.

The STNI (State/Territory Nominated Independent Visa) allows people with businesses to move to Australia. They can choose an appropriate Australian Business Visa, which is sub-divided into Investor Visa, Business Owner Visa, Business Talent Visa or Senior Executive Visa.

September 30, 2009

Moving to Australia with a Student Visa

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Student Visas — New Thirteen @ 5:03 pm

Australia is one of the premier destinations for foreign students. Foreign nationals who plan to move to Australia require a student visa, which comes in various types, depending on the course to be studied and the educational level of the academic programme. In order to qualify for student visas, applicants must have no overdue debts, good moral character and be in good health.

Independent ELICOS Visa (Subclass 570), as its name suggests, is intended for students who want to move to Australia to take up English Language Intensive Courses. Schools Visa (Subclass 571) is for those taking up primary, junior secondary or senior secondary education. Students enrolling in Certificates I, II, III and IV, Diplomas, and Advanced Diploma courses need a Vocational Education and Training Visa (Subclass 572). For university courses leading to Bachelor Degree, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Associate Degree, there is the Higher Education Visa (Subclass 573). Students enrolling in bridging or foundation courses, where there is no degree involved, need to obtain a Non-award Visa (Subclass 575). Postgraduate Research Visa (Subclass 574) is intended for students who wish to move to Australia in order to take Masters or PhD courses.

On being granted a student visa, you can move to Australia not only to study, but also to take a full-time job, though this is only possible during school vacations. Foreign students are also allowed to take a part-time job during the school season, for a maximum of 20 hours per week. In addition, family members of postgraduate visa holders, along with AusAid dependents, are eligible for unrestricted work rights.

September 24, 2009

Moving Down Under

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Working Abroad — New Thirteen @ 11:24 am

Life in Australia is both exciting and relaxing at the same time. The country is unquestionably beautiful from the wilderness of the Outback to the bustling city life. There are plenty of activities and places to explore, from the stunning architecture of Melbourne to the breathtaking Gold Coast beaches.

Australia also has a rich economy, with its first world status boasting an amazing range of job opportunities that are open to immigrants. If you would like to apply for a permanent residence status in Australia, as a worker, you can qualify as long as you have the skills that are in demand by Australian government. However, there are certain measures you have to take note of.

It is true that the Australian immigration system is less stringent than that of many other countries. For example, if your spouse is a sponsored worker with a temporary or permanent entry visa, you will be given unrestricted work rights. If you are already in Australia and currently hold a temporary principal visa, you can apply for a permanent visa. There is no limit to the number of visas that can be granted to a skilled worker with a temporary entry pass.

However, for your Australian immigration process to be successful, the number one rule is for you to do it right the first time, as mistakes can delay or disqualify applications. Forms have to be accurate, supporting documents have to be legitimate and paperwork and other requirements have to be complete.

If you are applying as an individual skilled worker, be selective with the skilled occupation you are applying for. Qualified occupations may change from time to time, so it’s important that your skills match what the Australian government needs. Employment experience, in your chosen field is also necessary and your previous experience can lift your status.

Finally, avoid taking unnecessary risks. Go to qualified agencies or those that are properly affiliated with the Australian Embassy. Even if you have to wait for the processing of your application, make sure that you are dealing with professional Australian immigration consultants.

September 3, 2009

Information on emigrating to Australia

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Visa Immigration, Work Permit — New Thirteen @ 3:06 pm

Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world, blessed with its beautiful environment, less expensive lifestyles, and strong economy. Having all those things, a lot of people choose to work and be a citizen of this ‘Lucky Country.’

There are certain requirements that must be achieved when emigrating to Australia. An immigrant must be 18 years old, and not more than 45. There are consultants from the country’s Department of Immigration who can be contacted to guide in applying for migration to their country. Filling out a form online is another way of assessing the eligibility of migrants. However, this doesn’t guarantee eligibility.

Being able to speak and use the English language appropriately is another factor to be qualified, as everybody knows that knowledge of the language is an important factor to survive in any country in the world.

The Australian government is looking for qualified professionals and skilled workers. Therefore, applicants must have post-secondary qualifications that must be related to the Nominated Occupation that will be selected from the Skilled Occupations list, Form 1121i. Then an Australian authority will test the skills of the migrant depending on the occupation that he has selected on the form he filled out. Health is another aspect that is monitored – before moving to their country, one must undergo a medical examination to be assessed for his general health condition.

After accomplishing all those requirements, the immigrant will have to sign the Australian Value Statement that encompasses all that is for the benefit of all citizens and of the country.

Emigration is something that most people tend to do in order to improve their quality of life. However, there are important things to consider before anyone can experience the pleasure of living in another country like Australia.

August 18, 2009

Immigration and Visas

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Canadian Immigration, Immigration Requirements, South Africa Visas, Work Permit — New Thirteen @ 3:39 pm

There are countless reasons why a person might want to immigrate to a different country. Perhaps they want to try a new way of life, or to sample the different cultures that the world has to offer. Perhaps they want to try working in a different nation, or studying in an entirely new environment.

Whatever the driving force behind your decision to immigrate, it’s vital to find out about how immigration works and what services are available to you. It’s worth planning your date of travel well in advance so that you have time to discover all there is to know about living and working in your chosen new country.

If you are planning to immigrate to Australia, South Africa, Canada or the USA, there are plenty of things to do before you leave. Of course one of the first things you’ll need to do is to find out about each country’s respective immigration policies, and make sure you can comply with them.

For example if you intend to immigrate to Australia you will need to obtain an Australian Visa. This can be applied for online, and you’ll have to undergo an assessment which will help determine your suitability for living and working in Australia.

Likewise if you want to move to South Africa, Canada, or the USA you will have to obtain the necessary Visa; and for each you will be assessed with regards to why you intend to immigrate to your chosen country. Much of the reason behind these Visa assessments is to find out what kind of skills you have and what you can bring to the country, if you do decide to work there.

August 13, 2009

Working in Australia

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Work Permit — New Thirteen @ 3:28 pm

You may decide to immigrate to Australia for many reasons. If you are moving there to work, there is a lot of support available to facilitate your settling in the country.

For example you might have recognised skills and have been sponsored by an employer in the UK to work in Australia. Or, you may be visiting the country on business grounds – perhaps to start a business there, or help one grow.

Whatever the reason behind your decision to live and work in Australia, you will need to undergo certain clearance checks. One of these checks is called a ‘character requirement’ and involves an assessment to determine if you are of good character. Similarly you will need to meet certain health requirements which will involve having a health examination to determine your medical needs.

As well as your Australian Visa, you may need other travel documents for entering the country that prove your identity and nationality. These will include your passport and a signed Incoming Passenger Card. A Passenger Card is a document required by Australian law that will provide a record of when you enter and leave Australia.

If your reason for going to Australia is more of a temporary one, for example if you are on a Working Holiday, slightly different rules will apply. Still you will have to obtain a Visa that gives you the legal right to work in Australia. The Australian Government make it clear that working in the country is a right, not a privilege.

August 4, 2009

Types of Australian visas

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Visa Immigration — New Thirteen @ 2:39 pm

Skilled workers can work and live in Australia by having a skilled immigration visa. Under the Australian General Skilled Migration programme, workers and migrants that are highly skilled can apply using their work experience, language ability, and other qualifications to pass the requirements for Australian immigration and obtain a permanent visa.

The programme, called General Skilled Migration, is for people without a sponsor, but who have the skills for various occupations that are needed to fill the labour shortages in Australia. Individuals who want to apply must be 18 to 45 years of age and speak English. Recent experience in their skilled work is also required, as well as an Australian eligibility requirements, and qualifications for one of the jobs in the Skilled Occupation List.

Recently, changes have been made in the General Skilled Migration programme involving the additional points that are awarded to migrants who show excellent English skills. The changes also include the reduction of 15 visa subclasses to only nine subclasses. These subclasses of visas are organised into offshore and onshore categories, and divided into independent and sponsored sub-categories. Onshore visas are applicable for individuals who are already in Australia who have an eligible visa to pass the requirements for the program. Offshore visas are available for people to obtain a permanent visa from abroad to work as a skilled migrant in the country.

The sponsored sub-categories of visas are for individuals sponsored by a relative who are already living in Australia. This type of visa has additional requirements, and in some cases a payment for a bond must be made.

The immigration process in Australia follows regulations that are quite similar to other countries. There are certain rules that should be followed to ensure that only skilled workers and eligible persons will enter the country.

July 31, 2009

Requirements for obtaining an Australia visa

Filed under: Australia Work Visa, Immigration Requirements, Visa Immigration — New Thirteen @ 11:42 am

Certain requirements must be met in order to obtain an Australian visa. Depending on the type of visa, such requirements vary, as with other visas.

For those applying for skilled immigration visa, applicants should not be older than 45 years. In cases where age is an issue, a waiver is not applicable. Applicants are also expected to possess proficiency in the English language, as Australia is an English-speaking country. An English assessment test must be taken by those applicants whose primary language is not English. Applicants must also include the occupation that they are applying for, in the Skilled Occupation list that the government of Australia has issued. In order to validate the applicant’s qualification for his/her desired occupation, authorities for that specific occupation conduct an exam that applicants must undergo. Aside from that, a history of related work experience with documented proof must be provided by these applicants.

Applicants who are sponsored by certain companies must certify first the legality of the sponsor’s business, and if the business abides by documented sponsoring obligations, such as meeting the applicant’s costs, salaries, and tax deductions from the employee’s salary. For most occupations, the sponsor must agree to pay the applicant $39,100, and for information technology work the employee must be paid $50,775.

For visiting purposes, certain criteria must also be met. Those applicants who reside in a high-risk country must provide proof of commitment to their home country. For tourist visas, funds amounting to $1,000 per month, and return airfare, must be shown as proof of their capacity to travel.

Although there are a lot of requirements in order to get an Australian visa, obtaining one is usually well worth it.

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