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.