16/9/2024

The Working Holiday 462 visa ballot... opens 01 oct 2024!!!

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The Working Holiday 462 visa ballot

Updates and more information about the Working Holiday Maker Visa (WHMV) program

There are a number of additional bits and pieces to know about the program that aren’t all that well known. You may come to know about it sitting around a hostel lounge or doing some decent online migration research. Hopefully this information blog helps clear it all up for you…

Does everyone who applies for a working holiday visa have it granted?

This can be a yes or no answer – and that all depends on the country passport you hold and how many people are applying. The Department has put an annual limit or 'cap' on the number of first Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visas that can be granted each financial year (1 July to 30 June).

Once the number of allocated visas for that country has been granted, then the program is closed for that financial year. This means that no more applications can be lodged or granted until the next program year.

You can check your country for their visa limits and whether the program is still open for this financial year through this link.

New 462 visa ballot for China, Vietnam and IndiA

In the 2024-2025 program year, the Government have decided to implement a new visa pre-application (ballot) process for some high demand Work and Holiday countries.

The new pre-application process will introduce ballots for first Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa applicants from China, Vietnam and India only.

Does the ballot or cap apply to 2nd or 3rd WHM visa applications?

No. It is only for 1st WHM visa applications and only for Chinese, Vietnamese and Indian passport holders.

Once you have been granted the 1st visa, you are open to applying for the 2nd or 3rd visa online through ImmiAccount at any time, provided you meet the requirements.

The ballot process

The ballot process will have a $25 AUD registration fee.

This process will mean that there will be a random selection of applicants and everyone will have an equal chance due to the high volume of applicants seeking this great visa… it takes away the “first in, first serve” rush.

Once open, registrations will take place through ImmiAccount.

Legislation for the fee and ballot process come into effect on Monday 16/09/2024 however ballot registrations for the first Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa ballots is still to be confirmed.

Is the ballot fee included in the visa application fee?

No, the registration fee is $25 AUD is to enter into the ballot only. If you are selected, you will need to ensure that you have all your documents ready to make your application as you will only have a limited time to apply. The full application fee $650 AUD will requirement payment at this time also.

Shout out to uk passport holders… did you know???

The age to apply for your Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa has increased to 35 years.
UK passport holders can be granted up to three separate Working Holiday visas without having to meet any specified work requirements.

What if I applied for my 1st (or 2nd) Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa using a different nationality passport

If you have obtained your UK citizenship and passport after already being granted the 417 visa with a non-UK passport, that’s still OK. You can apply for the next visas with your new UK passport and you do not need to meet the specified work process. However you can't switch from a 462 to a 417 visa.

Does that mean I can have 3 WHM visas with one non-UK passport, and then another 3 WHM visas using my UK passport?

No – there is a maximum of 3 visas total granted to you – as a person. The passport simply assists you in making further applications without the need to complete the specified work process.

Are you an Australian wanting to do a Working Holiday overseas?

Australians have the opportunity to travel and work overseas in over 40 different programs. Generally, the stay is for up to 12 months and allows for short-term work to supplement your travels along with limited study rights.

You will need to look into each countries program requirements directly – here’s the starting point.

Great Australian Migration is here to assist with all your on and offshore WHM visa applications.
We offer a service to check over your eligible work, hours and location for a minimal fee… or we can take care of the whole application process.

Contact us today, we are ready to help you.

i want to know more...

6/9/2024

The new 482 visa... what to expect

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'Skills in Demand' Visa… replacing the 482 TSS visa

The current 482 Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa is expected to be stopped with a new Skills in Demand (SID) visa set to replace it.

When is this new 482 visa expected to start?

Per the Migration Strategy this is to come into effect towards the end of 2024. This is only 3-4 months away and still no further information has yet been released about this visa. As this is such an important and vital visa for workers in Australia, I welcome any delays to this release date if it means that the visa will have a better and robust eligibility framework. Perhaps this change would be better commenced toward the new financial year, July 2025?

The New 482 visa will have 3 pathways

1. Specialist Pathway:

Recognises highly skilled migrants are hugely beneficial to Australia’s national productivity, including through their support of critical sovereign capabilities and potential to grow the skills and expertise of the Australian workforce. Applicants can be in any occupation except trades workers, machinery operators and drivers, and labourers who are earning at least $135,000 (indexed annually) and no less than Australian workers in the same occupation.

2. Core Skills Pathway:

Designed to bring in the skilled employees Australia needs now and into the future to ensure that we are able to provide ourselves with the goods and services we need to support our way of life. This will include trades workers, machinery operators and drivers, and labourers even if they earn over the $135K.

Applicants will need to meet one of the occupations on the CSOL and will be earning the minimum amount legislated by the Government. As of today it is $73,150 – but will be indexed with the change of financial year.

3. Essential Skills Pathway:

This visa will be sector specific, capped, have minimum standards and embedded with stronger regulation as these skills are in high-demand (such as aged-care workers) however generally not meeting the minimum pay required to meet the Core Skills Pathway.

Will there be changes to the Occupations available for Sponsorship Nomination?

The new occupation list – Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) – will be the core criteria for the SID visa and will target the core skills Australia’s workforce needs. The CSOL will operate in a similar manner to the current Skilled Occupation Lists (STSOL & MTLSSL) for the 482 TSS visa.

A draft CSOL is being formed based on labour market analysis for ANZSCO Skill Level 1 to 3 occupations. These skill levels have been selected as they (for the most part) meet the objective of ensuring that Australia’s skilled visa addresses Australia’s current, future and emerging workforce needs.

Although the list is not set through legislation as yet, there has been a draft proposal showing 3 lists – definitely ON the list; OFF the list; and IN CONSULTATION (so in other words – may be on the list, may be not). Note though that those occupations that are OFF the list, could end up on the list – so don’t organise your migration pathways just yet. Make sure you speak with a registered migration agent who can give you advice and assistance.

on the list...

There are over 180 skilled occupations that are already deemed to make it onto the list - some of these are:

Sales and Marketing Manager
Organisation and Methods Analyst
Variety of Engineering professions
Veterinarian
Teachers at all levels of schooling
Retail Pharmacist
Medical professionals
Registered Nurses
Network or Database Administrators
Psychologists
Many trades such as Carpenters, Electricians, Printing Machinist
Retail Buyer

off the list...

Some skills are just not seen as necessary (at the moment) as they can be filled by the local market. Some of these are:

PR Manager
Child Care Centre Manager
ICT Project Manager
Cafe or Restaurant Manager
Economist
Graphic Designer
ICT Support Engineer
Welfare Worker
ICT Support
Real Estate Agent / Rep / Property Manager

still in consultation...

There are an abundance of skills that there is still ongoing decisions to be made. Perhaps this is why we are yet to have any more juicier information about this visa:

Finance Manager
HR Manager
Accountant and other financial based roles
Analysts - various fields
Variety of Engineering professions
Middle School and Vocational Teachers
Hospital Pharmacist
ICT Engineers
Trades such as Panel Beaters, Painter, Glazier, Plasterer
Chefs, Cooks, Pastrycook, Baker

There is still much to be considered for this visa, but this is why choosing your area of study and work experience is important. Reviewing this future visa skills list in conjunction with the current list can help you start on the right path. Talk to us if you are looking for more guidance... we are ready to help you!

28/8/2024

skilled migration 2024-2025

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The Skilled Migration Program is now open for 2024-2025

What are the basics you need to know...

The points test has not changed and still sits at a minimum pass mark of 65.
The more points you can account for, the more likely you are to receive a nomination and visa invitation.

what is needed to collect points...

Age – be under 45 years. Ideally be under 40 years if you have not started any of this process. This will give you time to organise your skills assessment, English test, work references; and still have time to wait on an invitation.
Marital status – single is best, but married is fine too.
English – the higher your test score, the better. If you are a native English speaker holding an approved passport, you won’t need to take the test for visa purposes, however you also won’t be given any points. You might want to take a test to obtain extra points.
Tertiary education – A vocational diploma or bachelor’s degree is the very least needed. Certificates are not going to be enough.
Study in Australia – if you studied at least 2 years in Australia for a diploma or degree, Great! There are some more points for you!
Work experience – this needs to have occurred after you achieved your qualification for most occupations. And at least 1 year of full-time work will probably account to you being deemed qualified… so aim to have at the least 3-4 years work experience if you can.

There are some other ways to earn points, but they are under very specific circumstances. Speak to us today and we will happily do a free eligibility check for you.

State nomination...

This is the most valuable thing to do! Registering your interest (ROI) and being nominated by a State government will earn you valuable extra points and guarantee you a visa invitation.
Be open to living, working and studying in a regional area of Australia for at least 3 years and there are even more bonus points coming your way. At the end of all this, what you want to achieve is PR status, so keep your doors and windows open for any opportunity!

Onshore nomination vs Offshore nomination…

Depending on where you are currently living, this can impact which nomination you can pursue. Here’s a very basic rundown per State or Territory:

VICTORIA (VIC)

190 Visa allocation: 3000
491 Visa allocation: 2000
VIC Skilled Migration Visas

Onshore:

Must be living in the state, no timeframe needs to be met.
May need to claim your earnings if working in your skilled occupation.
VIC have indicated that there are priority skilled sectors.
English is also a key selection factor.
Last years ROIs are deleted, new ROIs are needed.
No ROI or Nomination fees apply.

Offshore:

Open to all.
Earnings do not need to be declared.
Priority sectors and English still a priority.

TASMANIA (TAS)

190 Visa allocation: 2100
491 Visa allocation: 760
TAS Skilled Migration

Onshore:

Must be living in the state, minimum period of 6 months.
Occupations are ranked for their priority using a coloured system.
Tasmanian occupation list applies.
Nomination fee payable upon selection. ROI is free.
ROI only valid for 6 months.

Offshore:

Requires a job offer.
Priority to heath and allied health professionals.
Must have been out of the country for at least 12 months.

NEW SOUTH WALES (N.S.W)

190 Visa allocation: 3000
491 Visa allocation: 2000
NSW Skilled Visas

Onshore:

Expected to open in October.
Work location and salary amount criteria will apply.
A NSW skills list will apply.

Offshore:

Expected to open in October.
Invitations may be more limited to offshore applicants.

AUS CAPITAL TERRITORY (A.C.T)

190 Visa allocation: 1000
491 Visa allocation: 800
ACT Skilled Migrants

Onshore:

Matrix system applies – points based that is different to Skill Select - Free.
Critical sectors have been identified.
Minimum 6 months work experience in the ACT.
English level may be required subject to occupation selected.
Nomination fee will apply.

Offshore:

Matrix system applies – points based that is different to Skill Select - Free.
Critical sectors have been identified.
Recent work experience is required – 3 out of the last 5 years.
English level may be required subject to occupation selected.
Nomination fee will apply.

QUEENSLAND (QLD)

190 Visa allocation: 600
491 Visa allocation: 600
QLD Skilled Visas

Onshore:

Not open and details are yet to be provided.

Offshore:

Not open and details are yet to be provided.

NORTHERN TERRITORY (N.T)

190 Visa allocation: 800
491 Visa allocation: 800
Northern Territory Government Visa Nomination

Onshore:

Living in N.T a minimum 12-24 months.
Full time employment for a minimum 6-12 months and a further 12 months available.
Employment needs to be in the nominated occupation.
Nomination fee will apply. ROI is free.

Offshore:

Must have a family sponsor or job offer.
Priority occupations may open later in the year without the need for family or job offer.
Nomination fee will apply. ROI is free.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA (W.A)

190 Visa allocation: 3000
491 Visa allocation: 2000
WA Migration Program

Onshore:

Have waived the nomination fee.
Do not need to be living in the state.
Work contract may be required.
Have indicated that there are priority skilled sectors.
WA occupation list applies.

Offshore:

No work contract required.
WA occupation list applies.
ROI free.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA (S.A)

190 Visa allocation: 3000
491 Visa allocation: 800
SA Skilled Migrants

Onshore:

ROI is free, Nomination fee will apply.
SA onshore occupation list.
Living in SA at least 12 months.
Currently working in your nominated skill at least 12 months.

Offshore:

ROI is free, Nomination fee will apply.
Home Affairs occupation list applies.
Some trades require a minimum work experience period.

As you can see, the Skilled Migration Program is competitive and can be confusing – it is highly recommended you engage with a Migration Agent to guide and assist you with ALL the steps of this process – even the “free ROIs or Nominations”. This is an investment towards your bright future!
Contact Great Australian Migration today for your free eligibility check!

23/8/2024

Student to permanent resident

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Studying and Permanent Residency in Australia

Australia’s skilled and employer sponsorship PR visa programs all start with your tertiary education and work experience. Without this, it will be difficult to obtain PR status unless you seek it through the Partner visa program. This blog though is focusing on studying and the skilled or employer sponsor visa programs. Learn more about the Partner visa and discover which option is best for you.

Step 1 – Tertiary StudY

If you are in a position to study in Australia this will be the best start to your PR journey. It is given good weight when it comes to the visa program requirements (points for Skilled Migration) and employers alike; as you will be able to demonstrate your communication capacity in English and be deemed qualified just like any Australian who is also in that field of work. It is understandable though that this is not always possible, primarily due to the international student fees associated to studying in Australia.

How do you choose what to study?

This advice is applicable to anyone studying in Australia or back in their home country.
A good starting place is to work out what you are passionate about. It is said that if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life. That can be hard to determine, especially if you are young and haven’t really had enough life experience to figure it all out. For others, they have known from a young age what they wanted to be.

So, another way to decide where your study pathway starts is to ask yourself this…

Do I like to study through books and lectures? Or do I like working more with my hands?

If you like to study with texts and teachers, then perhaps a diploma or university degree is something to aim for.

If you are more able to learn through hands-on processes, then it sounds like a trade skill is more your calling.

Step 2 – Choosing the right course for PR succes

Once you have determined the style of education that works for you, you need to decide what occupation specifically you should study for.

Selecting a broad degree such as Business Management or Humanitarian Arts may seem like a good start, however you will need to select a major and this might mean doing even more study. Another options is to study at a lower level such as a certificate and build your way up to at a minimum level Diploma. This will give you the opportunity to work out what you like, or don’t like, without investing too much financially and potentially changing courses along the way. The main thing is that if you can be more specific early on, it will avoid further studies, fees and time, getting you into the workforce quicker.

So how can you be “more specific”?

I suggest you have a look at the Skilled Occupation list to see which occupations might peak your interest. Some occupations will only require a diploma whilst others will require a university degree.

Great Australian Migration can help you narrow down your options and guide you towards good schools and courses that will be the most beneficial towards permanent migration.

Step 3 – English

No matter if you are studying in Australia or plan to study at home, you are going to need a good command of the English language. This is in 4 areas – reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Australian tertiary schools will need you to prove your English level to enrol you in a course. The Department of Home Affairs may also need this to grant you a student visa… and the two may not have the same pass marks. It may be necessary for you to complete an English (ELICOS) course or a foundation course before starting your qualification studies. Again, this is where Great Australian Migration can guide you.

If you are in your home country studying, it is recommended that you study English also. Whether that is part of your formal studies or separately. For any skilled visa or employer sponsored visa you will need to demonstrate your English level through formal testing such as IELTS or PTE. So the more you study and practice early on, the better mark you will receive and this is invaluable. An employer who interviews you for a position will be impressed by your command of the language and your commitment to studying. And for the independent skilled migration visa, the higher your pass mark, the more points you will achieve and more likely will be selected for invitation.

Step 4 – Work experiencE

Whilst studying if possible, and definitely once you have graduated, you should enter the workforce in your field of qualification. Your work should be full-time and formally paid accordingly. This must be demonstrated through formal documents such as a work contract, pay slips, salary bank deposits and tax lodgments. Avoid casual cash-in-hand work as this will not be suitable when it comes time to prove you are skilled in your field.

How do you prove you are skilled? This is through the appropriate skills assessing authority for your occupation. As this is a lengthy process it's best you seek out the assistance of Great Australian Migration to do this process too.

As you can see – there is more to Great Australian Migration that just knowing about visa requirements. We can guide and assist you with all the items you need pre-visa application.

Contact us today to work on your migration pathway – we are ready to help you!

15/8/2024

New Zealand Citizens Living in Australia

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New Zealand Citizens Living in Australia

The AUS-NZ relationship

The relationship between Australia and New Zealand is super strong and at times the migration process may start in New Zealand but end in Australia.

New Zealand citizens are not required to be granted a visa prior to boarding their flight across to Australia. They will be issued with a Special Category Visa (SCV) TY444 visa on arrival – but there is a caveat to this. You must be of good character and health (for what this means - click here). If you have had issues with your character or health, you should apply and be granted a visa before you travel across to Australia. Failure to do this could mean you are denied entry and flown back home.

Special Category TY444 VisA

Most New Zealanders are holding a TY444 visa that allows you to stay indefinitely in Australia with full work rights – but you are not a Permanent Resident. You can only have PR status if you specifically applied for a PR visa and have had it granted to you. A TY444 visa is a Temporary Resident visa only.

With that said though, there is a special date in Australian-New Zealand immigration history that can affect your status in Australia… ~ 26 JAN 2001 ~ This date determines whether you are a Protected/Eligible New Zealand Citizen or not in the eyes of Immigration, Centrelink and possibly other governmental services.

What is a Protected/Eligible NZ citizen?

You are a P/ENZ citizen if you were either:

in Australia on 26 February 2001;
if not in the country on the above date then you must have been in Australia for 12 months in the 2 years immediately before this date;
you have been given a certificate by Centrelink that has assessed you as a protected SCV holder, issued before 26 February 2004.

Basically, if you have this special status, you are meeting the same requirements as an Australian Citizen when it comes to sponsoring someone for a visa; applying for Citizenship and possibly other government services.

But if you do not have this status, your ability to sponsor someone for a visa, obtain Centrelink payments or other government services may be limited or simply not available to you.

An example of this is the Partner visa

My partner is a NZ citizen living in Australia. I’m not a NZ citizen and my visa is coming to an end. I don’t want to go home, I want to stay with my Partner; what options do I have to stay?

If your partner is a P/ENZ

Your NZ partner could sponsor you under the standard partner visa program and you will receive Permanent Residency upon successful grant.

If your partner is not a P/ENZ

Your NZ partner could sponsor you under the NZ Family Relationship visa. This is temporary visa valid for 5 years and provides you with full work rights. You will need to renew this visa to continue staying in Australia. And if your relationship ends, you can still have this visa provided you have not entered into another relationship.

If your NZ partner becomes an AU citizen

You will need to be sponsored under the partner visa as they will no longer hold the status of a NZ citizen in Australia for the purposes of the NZ Relationship Visa. It is best to check your visa expiry date as it could affect your next visa application timeframe. Timing is EVERYTHING!

New Zealander’s becoming Australian Citizen

From 1 July 2023, the Albanese Government legislated that New Zealand Citizens no longer needed to become Permanent Residents first in order to qualify for Australian Citizenship; a huge and costly hurdle taken away and brings them inline with Australian citizens living in New Zealand.

As a TY444 visa holder, you need to meet the same eligibility requirements as a Permanent Resident. Becoming an Australian Citizen will bring you so many more benefits compared to being a Temporary Resident TY444 visa holder that it really is worth obtaining. For more citizenship information – click here.

Children born in Australia to New Zealand parents – are they Australian or New Zealanders?

They could be both!

For a child born to New Zealand parents prior to 1 July 2022, your child will need to be registered with the New Zealand government to obtain their citizenship status and passport. They can then be issued with a TY444 visa.

How can they become an Australian Citizen?

If they have lived in Australia since their birth until 10 years of age, they will automatically obtain Australian Citizenship on their 10th birthday. This can be confirmed through an application of “Evidence of Citizenship” and will be needed for an Australian Passport application.

If they left Australia to live back in NZ or any other country, then upon their return they will need to meet the standard eligibility for citizenship as discussed above.

If they are born on or after 1 July 2022, they automatically become an Australian citizen at birth. Again its a good idea to obtain an "Evidence of Citizenship" certificate, especially to make an application for an Australian Passport. You may look to registering them with the New Zealand government as well to establish their dual citizenship.

HELP!!! i have an application ban!

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Application ban

Waivers, Re-Entry Bans and other minor but MAJOR details to note –

For most people, the simple equation to check if you qualify to make an application for a visa is simple…

Do I have a clear immigration, health and character history? YES = Yes you can lodge and be granted a visa.

But what happens if your answer is NO?

Answering NO does not automatically disqualify you from applying or being granted a visa. What it does mean is that you will have additional items to address – and if you can overcome these things, then your application will move forward.

What does Immigration History mean?

If you have ever had a visa refused or cancelled; or if you have overstayed your visa (expired) or you departed Australia whilst on a Bridging Visa C,D, or E then you most likely do not have a clear immigration history – something at sometime has gone a little wrong and most likely you have some sort of bar or exclusion period applied to you. You are best to seek the assistance of a registered migration agent to assist you on your next application.

What does Health History mean?

Simply – are you of good health? Yes, then there should be no issues. However, if you have now, or had in the past, medical issues that required treatment via ongoing medications and could incur substantial costs it is best you discuss your case with an agent. Most visas will require that you undertake a medical examination, and at times a visa can be refused based around your medical condition.

What does Character History mean?

Australia wants to ensure those that are entering the country are “good” people. All criminal issues should be declared, however minor you think they are. If you have gone to court, you should declare. Fines are not considered. If you wish to discuss your case, speak with a Registered Migration Agent, they are bound by confidentiality and Privacy laws, so you can speak freely about your situation. They can assess your case and discuss the threshold of what is considered being of good or not good character.

What laws, regulations or conditions could be imposed and restrict you from lodging or being granted another visa?

The most common are:

Condition 8503
Public Interest Criteria 4014, 4013, 4020
Schedule 3 Partner visa

CONDITION 8503 “NO FURTHER STAY”

This is imposed on your visa and does not allow you to lodge for another visa whilst you are in Australia – expect for a Protection Visa.

You can request this be waived in order to lodge another visa whilst in Australia only if there is a major change in your circumstances.

The change must be something that is out of your control; in a manner that you could not have prevented or stopped it.

For example – you are unable to travel due to a medical episode; there has been a major incident in your close family; there has been a natural disaster, war or civil unrest in your home country that came about whilst you are in Australia…. The list is not exhaustive; but this is where a migration agent can certainly review your case and make an informed opinion.

A waiver request should be lodged as soon as possible, do not wait for your visa to expire. If your visa is due to expire and a decision has not been made, you should look to departing as you will become unlawful without a visa. If this happens, again, speak with an agent who can help you. It is always your responsibility to ensure you have a valid visa for the whole of your stay in Australia.

PUBLIC INTEREST CRITERIA 4014, 4013 & 4020

These are items that will restrict you from being granted another visa. This is better known as a “re-entry ban”. It does not apply to all visas.

PIC 4014 relates to your departure from Australia when you did not hold a valid visa to do so (unlawful departure) or you left whilst holding a Bridging Visa E, D or C.

PIC 4013 relates to a previous visa that was cancelled.

PIC 4020 relates to a current application being lodged or a previous application where false information or bogus documents have been provided to the Department.

Having one of these PICs imposed on you means that you may be subject to an exclusion period from being granted a visa – you can still make an application but you will need to request a waiver of the PIC in order to then be granted the visa. An approved waiver will only apply to that specific application.
A request to waiver must be made at the same time as the application. The waiver will need to demonstrate that compelling circumstances affect the interests of Australia (as a country); or there are compassionate or compelling circumstances that affect the interests of an Australian citizen, an Australian permanent resident or an eligible New Zealand Citizen.

Should the waiver NOT be approved, the visa will be refused and there will be no refund of the application fee. As you can see, it is very important you have a migration agent assist you with this process if you know or believe you are subject to a PIC.

SCHEDULE 3 FOR AN ONSHORE PARTNER VISA

When applying for a Partner visa in Australia, generally this is done whilst you are validly holding a substantive visa (eg visitor visa, work visa, student visa). But it is also a visa that can be applied for even if you have overstayed your visa and are therefore unlawfully in Australia or you are holding another type of Bridging Visa.

If this is the case, then some additional criteria do need to be met to be granted the visa.

At a basic level these are compassionate and compelling reasons that convince the Department there is no way that you can go overseas to lodge this visa offshore and to wait there whilst it is being processed. Failure to do this will mean that the visa is refused. This can be costly considering that, as of today, an onshore Partner visa is over $9000 and seeking review of the decision will cost another $3000+ and 2-4 years will have passed.

A good migration agent will review your case and help you determine if its actually better for you to depart to lodge offshore, where Schedule 3 does not need to be met and you will not be subject to a re-entry ban based on PIC 4014. You may even be back in Australia before an onshore application would have been decided!

As you can see, there are many minor details that are not readily known to those who are not registered migration agents. This is why it is essential to seek your immigration information from a registered MARA agent who studies and keeps up to date with immigration laws. They are passionate about what they do and have made it their career. Do not rely on your neighbour, friend, cousin or boss! They are not qualified to guide you through your immigration journey.

Contact Great Australian Migration as soon as you can to ensure you have the best advice and strategy. Investing in a paid personalised consultation is money well spent!

30/7/2024

PR's Travelling Overseas

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PR's Travelling Overseas

The basics...

As the name says – a person holding a permanent resident (PR) visa is permitted to stay in Australia indefinitely. Your visa does not expire, unlike a temporary visa. However, what does expire is the capacity to travel outside of Australia. This is a temporary component and upon initial granting of your PR visa, you are given a 5 year travel period.
During these 5 years, you can come and go from Australia and upon returning stay as long as you like. But once those 5 years have passed, if you wish to travel again, or if you are overseas and want to return to Australia, you must have renewed your PR visa. This new visa is called a Resident Return Visa (RRV).

If you do not hold a valid visa for re-entry to Australia you might be refused boarding onto your flight at the airport or have your entry into Australia delayed until your identity and claims to enter have been verified.
Ideally, as a permanent resident in Australia you should ensure your travel visa (PR or RRV) is still valid. If it has expired, or close to it, it is highly recommended that you apply for your RRV whilst you are still in Australia.

If you migrated to Australia before 1987 or travelled overseas between 1 March 1976 and 31 December 1986, you could have been issued with an Authority to Return (ATR) or a Return Endorsement (RE). If this is your case, you should not apply for any other visa because, if your application is approved, this will legally cease your Authority to Return or Return Endorsement. Contact Great Australian Migration if you think this is your situation.

I’m overseas and my PR travel visa has expired… maybe I’ll just apply for an ETA or Visitor VISA to come back to Australia since it’s free?

Short answer…. No, don’t do this!
Entering Australia on an ETA or visitor visa actually means that you have re-entered Australia for that purpose – not as a PR. You will have no permission to work or study, it will affect any government benefits you may receive, no Medicare; and upon expiring, will leave you in Australia without a valid visa. You must re-establish yourself as a PR by applying for a RRV – do this ASAP. Entering as a visitor will also affect your time period towards applying for Citizenship.

Applying for a Resident Return visA

You should apply for a Resident Return visa if any of the following apply to you:

you are a current or former Australian PR and your last PR visa was not cancelled
you were previously a citizen of Australia and have returned to PR status
you want to return to Australia as a PR
you are departing and might not return to Australia before your travel visa expires

You can apply for this visa before or after it has expired. You can also apply for this visa both within Australia or once you are overseas. It is highly recommended that you obtain your new RRV before you leave Australia. The process for applying for this visa before you depart is much easier and processes faster. Lodging whilst overseas could leave you stranded overseas for longer than you expected, should there be any issues.
Apply online through ImmiAccount - Visa fee $475 AUD.
If you can’t apply online, a paper form can be filled but it will cost more - Visa fee $555 AUD.
Great Australian Migration can assist you with applying; the service fee will be determined based on any outlying issues you may have. Starting price is $300 AUD.

5 YEar RRV, 12 month rrv or 3 month rrv?

Check which one of these applies to your case:

If you were living in Australia for a total period of at least 2 years over the last 5 years as a PR visa holder or as a previous Australian citizen, then you meet what is known as the ‘residence requirement’ and you will be granted with 5 years. This visa should be granted quickly – within 5 working days!
If you have not met the ‘residence requirement’ but have demonstrated you have substantial ties with Australia, then you should be granted with a period of 12 months. And in the most extreme circumstances, 3 months. This visa will take much longer to process – possibly 3 months or more! Another reason to apply from within Australia if you can.

If you do not meet the requirements, it’s best you contact Great Australian Migration to help you with your application.

Transferring your visa details to your new passport

If you have been given a new passport, your visa remains valid but is still connected to your old passport. You must provide your new passport details to the Department of Home Affairs for the visa information to be updated. This is not automatically done. You might be able to update this online using your ImmiAccount. If you are having troubles with ImmiAccount, you can complete Form 929 – Change of address and/or passport details (193KB PDF) and return the form by post to the Department. There is no fee for this service.

Other important information - Incoming Passenger Card

People arriving into Australia (visa holders or citizens) must complete a Passenger Card. It is an official document that identifies the person entering the country and their declaration regarding their health, character and declarable items. Failure to complete the card can lead to fines and possible visa cancellation.

Completing an incoming passenger card

When answering questions on the front about items you are bringing into Australia, if you are in doubt, it is best you tick ‘yes’. This will allow you to speak with an officer who can check the item/s and confirm if it’s OK to pass. If not, the item may be taken from you for processing or destruction; but the main thing is you should not face any penalties. This applies even to items you brought from Australia to take with you overseas and then return. https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/can-you-bring-it-in

Great Australian Migration is here to assist you with all your visa and citizenship needs. Reach out to receive service that is personalised for you...

CONTACT GREAT AUSTRALIAN MIGRATION

26/7/2024

Australian citizenship... extras you need to know

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Australian Citizenship

How you can become a Citizen:

By Conferral. This means that you must meet requirements and apply to become a citizen. More information about this process is available on our dedicate Citizenship page.
By Descent. You are born overseas to an Australian citizen, but this does not automatically make you Australian. You need to apply to the Australian Government to confirm this fact and issue you with a certificate. You can do this overseas, in which case you will then need an Australian Passport to come to Australia. Or you can travel to Australia on another type of visa and then make you application onshore. If you take this route, you must ensure you remain on a valid visa whilst you await the outcome and you must also abide by the conditions of that visa. So for example, if you come to Australia on a visitor visa, this means no work. Once your citizenship is approved, yes you are now permitted to work and seek all the benefits available to Australian citizens.
By Birth (subject to location, parent status, your age). Again, just by being born in Australia does not automatically mean you are a citizen. Your citizenship relies on the status of your parents at the time of your birth. To become a citizen by birth in Australia, you must be born onshore and at least one of your parents must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen. If you are born overseas, you will need to meet the criteria for “Citizenship by Descent”. A parent who is a PR only will not qualify.

There is also special provision for children not born to a qualifying parent. A child will automatically qualify for citizenship on their 10th birthday provided they have lived, studied and resided in Australia as their primary residence during that time. If this is the case, they will apply for “Evidence of Citizenship” – see more about this process below.

Citizenship Certificate:

Why is this document so important and how to obtain one?

Ceremony presentation.
The certificate is given to you at your ceremony after you apply and have been approved for citizenship by conferral. Adult applicants will be given their own certificate and it will have your name on the front. If you have conferred children with you as part of your application, they will be listed on the back.
Evidence of Citizenship.
This is the process of obtaining your own certificate through application.
You may need to do this because you have lost your certificate; maybe it was damaged or destroyed due to flood or fire; you may need a certificate to prove your status to obtain a passport; you were born in Australia to non-qualifying parents and you are now 10 years of age; or you are listed on your parents certificate and now you want your own.

Important information about your Certificate:

Once you are issued with your own certificate, you are no longer deemed listed on your parents’ certificate and you can’t use the original certificate in the future.
Do not alter your certificate – e.g. laminate, frame with glue; write on your certificate; amend a misspelling or date.
If you have lost or destroyed your certificate, you should make a statutory declaration as soon as you are aware and your statement should note about how/when you became aware that it was lost/damaged, and in which manner (eg moving house, fire, flood, etc).
This certificate is THE MOST important document you hold, even more than your passport – so keep this new certificate SAFE.
If there is an error on your certificate such as your name is misspelt, or the date of birth is wrong you must inform the Department as soon as possible. Depending on when the error is noted, you may not need to formally make another application or pay for a new certificate. If you have changed your name and also want your Citizenship certificate to reflect this, you will need to apply for another certificate.

Overseas travel:

If you are waiting on your Citizenship approval or ceremony, you will need to ensure you travel on a current overseas passport and ensure you have a valid visa.
Once you are conferred as a Citizen, you will need to travel on an Australian passport. You should wait at least 10 days before applying for the passport to allow the Department time to notify the Passports office of your citizenship details.
Try to limit your travel plans as you must undertake your citizenship ceremony within 12 months of being approved. Travel overseas can delay you attending your allocated ceremony and there is generally a substantial wait for another.
If you do plan to travel outside Australia before your ceremony, you should advise the Department at the time of your citizenship appointment if possible, or if you have already had your appointment and approval, your local council as they will be conducting your ceremony.

For all your Citizenship needs, please look to Great Australian Migration. We are ready to help you!

16/7/2024

working holidays and permanent residency

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Want to Work whilst you Visit Australia? How can this type of visa help me towards permanent migration?

As a general rule, those who visit Australia are not permitted to work… but if you are looking to migrating to Australia, a working holiday visa can be a great starting point. This visa is granted for 1 year and will give you time to see different cities and towns to decide what might suit your work and lifestyle. You are also open to work in any occupation or job. This gives you the opportunity to show your worth to an employer who may be in a position to then sponsor you on to a proper full-time working visa. It is also one of the rare visas that still allows you to apply for a student visa whilst in Australia if you need to upgrade your skills. And at just $650 AUD its great value!

working holiday visas – subclass 417 and subclass 462

Common criteria:
~ starting age 18 years… maximum age 30 years or 35 years (depending on the country of your passport)
~ for your first visa, you must be outside of Australia to apply
~ if you are a dual citizen, you can only qualify for your first visa provided you have not previously held a 417 visa or 462 visa, so no swapping from one visa subclass to another using different passports.
~ have enough money to support yourself upon your initial arrival into Australia as it can take you some time to find employment. The expected amount to show is $5000 AUD plus the cost of a ticket to depart Australia
~ be in good health (you will be required to undergo an official medical check)
~ be of good character (you will need official police certificates to show this)
~ generally, you have not previously had a visa cancelled or refused, this could cause you to have an exclusion period applied to you.

Which country passport qualifies for a subclass 417 – Working Holiday Visa:

Belgium	Canada	Cyprus	Denmark
Estonia	Finland	France	Germany
Hong Kong SAR	Ireland	Italy	Japan
Korea (South)	Malta	Netherlands	Norway
Sweden	Taiwan	UK & Nth Ireland	---

Which country passport qualifies for a subclass 462 – Work and Holiday Visa:

Argentina	Austria	Brazil	Chile
China	Czech Republic	Ecuador	Greece
Hungary	Indonesia	Israel	Luxembourg
Malaysia	Mongolia	Papua New Guinea	Peru
Poland	Portugal	San Marino	Singapore
Slovak Republic	Slovenia	Spain	Switzerland
Thailand	Turkiye	Uruguay	USA
Vietnam	To be opened: Philippines	---	---

Other requirements for subclass 462 eligible countries:

~ Education:
Many countries require that you have completed a tertiary education or at least 2 years of an undergraduate university degree. Acceptable tertiary qualifications: degrees, graduate certificates, diplomas. Higher level (certificate I to IV) and High School certificates are generally not accepted.
~ Functional level of English (not applicable to all countries, check with us):
There are different ways you can prove your functional English level. The most common is you hold an approved passport (USA, UK, Canada or Ireland); have completed schooling delivered in English; or you pass an approved test – eg IELTS, PTE, Cambridge.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER and know:

How can you qualify for another visa to stay longer in Australia?
A great bonus of this visa is that by doing a few months of specified work in regional Australia will open the door for you to apply for a second, and possibly, a third visa! That’s 3+ years of building your work experience and possible sponsorship to staying more permanently in Australia.

What is specified work in regional Australia?
Australia is a BIG country and there is work in all the 4 corners of the land. The government wants to encourage you to explore and help the smaller cities and towns. It’s possible you may actually fall in love with the people, area and work – enticing you to stay longer or even to seek permanent residency.

What areas of Australia are “regional”?
Put simply – stay away from most capital cities – especially Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. Amazingly some capital cities are still deemed regional – like Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin.

How long do you need to work?
To qualify for a 2nd visa – you will need to work at least 88 days (3 months) full-time or equivalent time to qualify. And to qualify for the 3rd visa – double this again, 179 days (6 months).

What is “specified work”?
There are a range of jobs that can meet this criteria. Examples of this are:
- Tourism and Hospitality industry (in very remote areas)
- Fruit and/or vegetable picking and packing
- Taking care of animals being reared for consumption such as cattle herding
- Fishing and Pearling directly related to commercial operations
- Building construction
- Work in bushfire effected areas to help with re-building/re-growth of the area
As you can see, there is a variety of work and ways to meet criteria for a 2nd and 3rd visa.

Great Australian Migration offers a "work, time and location check" service to those in Australia and to those that have gone back home and now want to try for their 2nd or 3rd year visa. We will check your documents such as reference letters, pay slips, contract and/or other proof in support of the work you have done, the location of where it was done and that you have enough hours/days to satisfy criteria. This is $300AUD. And if you are looking to obtain your first visa and need help with it all, we are here to help with that too – full service for $1250AUD.

Contact us for more information, whether its this visa or another… we are here to help you 😊

8/7/2024

The Alphabet of Bridging Visas

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The Alphabet of Bridging Visas

Basically speaking, there are 2 types of visas – substantive visas such as a visitor visa, partner visa, student visa, employer sponsored visa – the reason and purpose why you are in Australia … and then there are bridging visas which are the “in-between visas” to take you from one substantive visa to another. You may also hold this visa if you are seeking appeal of the visa decision, either at the AAT or through the Courts.

Why are there so many Bridging Visas and what does each one mean?

There is a basic but important rule to note about Bridging Visas (BVs) – the lower down the rank you go, the more restrictive it is. And no, a BVA is not better than a BVB – go figure!

Here are the most commonly granted Bridging Visas and the order that is most beneficial to you as the visa holder!

1. Bridging Visa B (BVB)

This visa can only be obtained by paying an application fee. It is for the purpose of obtaining permission to travel. This visa can only be granted if you are holding an active BVA, so don’t jump the gun by applying for a BVB simply because your BVA has been granted and is waiting in the background. You should make your application for a BVB as far in advance to travel as possible, ensuring you have documents in support of your plans. Also look to include as many trips you think you will take in your application so the Department can look to granting you a visa with a multiple travel facility. This may avoid you needing to lodge again for a future trip. But don’t be surprised if the visa isn’t granted straight away – it could be granted only a few days prior to your planned travel! Most importantly – DO NOT LEAVE AUSTRALIA without this visa first being granted and especially do not let the travel facility expire whilst you are overseas. It CAN’T be granted to you from overseas and you may be stuck there! Should the travel component expire whilst you are back in Australia, you do not need to apply again unless you plan on travelling again. The BVB stays active for you to remain in Australia until a decision is made.

2. Bridging Visa A (BVA)

This BV will be granted to you when you are doing everything right. What does that mean? The normal scenario is that are holding a substantive visa in Australia, and you apply for another substantive visa. The Department grant you this BVA to keep you lawful in Australia should your first substantive visa expire and the 2nd visa application hasn’t had a decision yet. The BVA will only become active once the 1st visa is expired. If not, it will stay in the background, inactive. For this basic scenario, you do not normally need to apply for this visa separately. If you are undertaking other immigration matters or if you are unsure, please speak to a Registered Migration Agent who can look into this for you further. Work rights on this visa are generally determined by the visa you had previously, so for example if you had a visitor visa with no work rights, then the BV will have that too.

3. Bridging Visa C (BVC)

This is when things are starting to go a little amiss. Now what does that mean? Generally, this BV is granted in 2 scenarios – you are applying for another substantive visa whilst on a BVA or BVB; or you are applying for another visa from an unlawful state, meaning you are not holding another visa at all. This visa can’t be granted to you if you have ever held a BVE. A BVC will allow you to stay in Australia whilst your application is processing but does not allow you to travel, nor can you apply to travel. Generally, you will have no work rights either.

4. Bridging Visa E (BVE)

Now we are at the end of the line for bridging visas. It is called a Status Resolution Visa. This visa is normally granted to those who have gotten themselves into a sticky situation. You may have had a visa cancelled and are seeking review of the decision; you have overstayed your visa and are looking into options; you have made the decision to go home; or you may be asking the Minister to intervene in your case. You understand and don’t want to be in Australia without a valid visa – this can lead you to potential detention and removal from the country; which can then affect other visa applications, even for other countries! So do the right thing and take action asap. Before applying directly to the Department for this visa, I highly recommend you book yourself a consultation and speak with a Registered Migration Agent about your case. You may still have options open to you. Remember as noted above, a BVC might be open to you still… but not if you have a BVE granted to you first.

Great Australian Migration’s principal agent – Emily Surina (MARN 2318036) left the Department as a Status Resolution Team Leader and Trainer to open this agency, so she understands exactly the process and is sure to guide you in the right manner – with honesty and integrity.

For BVE packages, see our specials!

How can I change the conditions on my Bridging Visa?

There are normally 3 conditions people want to change on their Bridging Visas…

Travel rights: As mentioned earlier, only a person who holds a BVA can apply for a BVB to travel. This is applied for through ImmiAccount and costs $180 AUD.
Work rights: You may have restrictions when it comes to your work rights. But now that you have applied for another visa and will be in Australia longer than first planned, you may need to work in order to support yourself. You will need to demonstrate that you have a compelling need to work, and this is usually because you are in financial hardship. In some cases, you may also need to show a reason in your delay in applying for the next substantive visa – in particular if you are the holder of a BVE. Apply for a change of conditions on the same type of visa that you already have through ImmiAccount, there will be no visa application fee. However, you may want to consider engaging the services of a Registered migration Agent to do this application for you, they will usually charge a fee for this.
If you are the holder of a BVB with no work rights, you will unfortunately need to apply for another BVA in which case the travel facility will be removed and you will need to apply for another BVB after the work rights have been granted.
Study rights: You may have been imposed with a restricted permission to study. Generally, this is difficult to have removed as someone who is in Australia looking to study should have applied for a student visa. However, there are some situations where very limited study rights may be given (3-4 months permission). We again, highly recommend you speak with a Registered Migration Agent if this is your case.

If you are in a position where you find your immigration pathway is not going as smoothly as you thought, don’t delay! Contact and pay for a consultation with a Registered Migration Agent – they really are worth every cent to provide you with reassurance and a plan to straighten your way. Yes, it might mean that you are given advice that isn’t what you want to hear and you may need to leave and start again, but it's better to do that than to have your visa cancelled or to face exclusion periods to apply for another visa all because you didn’t want to pay for a consultation.

At Great Australian Migration we want to help you as best we can – with honesty, hard truths and integrity.

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FROM THE DESK OF EMILY SURINA~ REGISTERED migration AGENT ~

The Working Holiday 462 visa ballot

Updates and more information about the Working Holiday Maker Visa (WHMV) program

Does everyone who applies for a working holiday visa have it granted?

New 462 visa ballot for China, Vietnam and IndiA

Does the ballot or cap apply to 2nd or 3rd WHM visa applications?

​The ballot process​​

Is the ballot fee included in the visa application fee?

Shout out to uk passport holders… did you know???

What if I applied for my 1st (or 2nd) Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa using a different nationality passport

Does that mean I can have 3 WHM visas with one non-UK passport, and then another 3 WHM visas using my UK passport?

Are you an Australian wanting to do a Working Holiday overseas?

'Skills in Demand' Visa… replacing the 482 TSS visa

When is this new 482 visa expected to start?

The New 482 visa will have 3 pathways

1. Specialist Pathway:

2. Core Skills Pathway:

3. Essential Skills Pathway:

Will there be changes to the Occupations available for Sponsorship Nomination?

on the list...

off the list...

still in consultation...

The Skilled Migration Program ​is now open for 2024-2025

What are the basics you need to know...

what is needed to collect points...

State nomination...

Onshore nomination vs Offshore nomination…

VICTORIA (VIC)

TASMANIA (TAS)

NEW SOUTH WALES (N.S.W)

190 Visa allocation: 3000 491 Visa allocation: 2000 NSW Skilled Visas Onshore:

AUS CAPITAL TERRITORY (A.C.T)

QUEENSLAND (QLD)

NORTHERN TERRITORY (N.T)

WESTERN AUSTRALIA (W.A)

SOUTH AUSTRALIA (S.A)

Studying and Permanent Residency in Australia

Step 1 – Tertiary StudY

How do you choose what to study?

Step 2 – Choosing the right course for PR succes

So how can you be “more specific”?

Step 3 – English

Step 4 – Work experiencE

New Zealand Citizens Living in Australia

The AUS-NZ relationship

Special Category TY444 VisA

What is a Protected/Eligible NZ citizen?

An example of this is the Partner visa

If your partner is a P/ENZ

If your partner is not a P/ENZ

If your NZ partner becomes an AU citizen

New Zealander’s becoming Australian Citizen

Children born in Australia to New Zealand parents – are they Australian or New Zealanders?

How can they become an Australian Citizen?

Application ban

Waivers, Re-Entry Bans and other minor ​but MAJOR details to note –

What does Immigration History mean? ​

What does Health History mean?

​What does Character History mean?

What laws, regulations or conditions could be imposed and restrict you from lodging or being granted another visa?

CONDITION 8503 “NO FURTHER STAY”

PUBLIC INTEREST CRITERIA 4014, 4013 & 4020

SCHEDULE 3 FOR AN ONSHORE PARTNER VISA

PR's Travelling Overseas

The basics...

I’m overseas and my PR travel visa has expired… maybe I’ll just apply for an ETA or Visitor VISA to come back to Australia since it’s free?

Applying for a Resident Return visA

5 YEar RRV, 12 month rrv or 3 month rrv?

Transferring your visa details to your new passport

Other important information - ​​​Incoming Passenger Card

Completing an incoming passenger card

Australian Citizenship

How you can become a Citizen:

​Citizenship Certificate:

Why is this document so important and how to obtain one?

​Overseas travel:

Want to Work whilst you Visit Australia? How can this type of visa help me towards permanent migration?

​working holiday visas – subclass 417 and subclass 462

Which country passport qualifies for a subclass 417 – Working Holiday Visa: ​

Which country passport qualifies for a subclass 462 – Work and Holiday Visa:

FROM THE DESK OF EMILY SURINA
~ REGISTERED migration AGENT ~

The ballot process

The Skilled Migration Program is now open for 2024-2025

190 Visa allocation: 3000
491 Visa allocation: 2000
NSW Skilled Visas

Onshore:

Waivers, Re-Entry Bans and other minor but MAJOR details to note –

What does Immigration History mean?

What does Character History mean?

Other important information - Incoming Passenger Card

Citizenship Certificate:

Overseas travel:

working holiday visas – subclass 417 and subclass 462

Which country passport qualifies for a subclass 417 – Working Holiday Visa:

Other requirements for subclass 462 eligible countries:

2. Bridging Visa A (BVA)

How can I change the conditions on my Bridging Visa?

Great Australian Migration