Introduction
Have you ever dreamt of watching a picturesque sunset over the Great Barrier Reef? Or perhaps, sipping some world-class Australian wine amidst the sprawling vineyards of Barossa Valley? If such visions get your heart racing, it’s high time you considered securing an Australian Skilled Visa and turn these dreams into a reality. But first, let’s start with the basics, shall we?
Understanding Australian Skilled Visas
Australian Skilled Visas are a broad category of visas aimed at skilled workers looking to migrate to Australia. These are points-tested visas and applicants are scored based on their qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, age, and other factors. Sound complicated? Don’t worry! We’ll break it down for you.
Diverse Visa Types Under the Australian Skilled Visas Umbrella
From plumbers to professors, Australia’s skilled visa program is designed to attract a diverse range of occupations. Here are some of the key categories:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): This visa allows skilled workers to live and work in Australia as permanent residents. Applicants do not need sponsorship for this visa.
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): This is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government agency.
- Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491): This visa allows skilled workers to live and work in specified regional areas in Australia for five years.
How Does the Points System Work?
With so many potential migrants, Australia uses a points system to cherry-pick the cream of the crop. Points are given for age, English proficiency, skilled employment history, qualifications, and more. Remember, the higher your score, the higher your chances of securing a visa.
Applying for Australian Skilled Visas: The Walkthrough
Applying for an Australian skilled visa may seem daunting, but fear not. We’re going to take you through the process step by step.
Step 1: Determine your Eligibility
Before you go any further, you must determine if you’re eligible for an Australian Skilled Visa. This involves assessing your occupation, skills, qualifications, and meeting other criteria like health and character requirements.
Step 2: Complete a Skills Assessment
A positive skills assessment is a must-have for the visa application. This assessment is done by the relevant assessing authority for your nominated occupation.
Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
An EOI is essentially a declaration of your interest in applying for a skilled visa. It’s submitted through the SkillSelect system, which is an online service that helps Australia manage its skilled migration program.
Step 4: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your EOI meets the criteria, you’ll receive an ITA. After receiving the ITA, you’ll have 60 days to submit your visa application.
Step 5: Lodge Your Visa Application
The final step is to lodge your visa application. It’s important to provide all the required documents to avoid delays in processing.
The Perks of Having an Australian Skilled Visa
Getting an Australian Skilled Visa is more than just a ticket to live and work in Australia. There’s a whole bunch of other perks that come with it. Let’s dive into them.
1. Access to World-Class Healthcare
Australia’s healthcare system is lauded as one of the best in the world. As a skilled visa holder, you and your family will have access to this top-notch healthcare system.
2. High Standard of Living
Australia boasts a high standard of living with excellent infrastructure, low crime rates, clean environment, and high-quality education system. You’re not just moving to a new country; you’re stepping into a better life.
3. Pathway to Citizenship
Australian Skilled Visas often provide a pathway to Australian citizenship. After fulfilling certain requirements, you can apply to become a bona fide Aussie!
FAQs
1. How long does it take to process an Australian Skilled Visa?
The processing time varies depending on the visa subclass and the number of applications received. On average, it can take anywhere between 6-12 months.
2. How many points do I need to apply for an Australian Skilled Visa?
As of my knowledge cut-off in September 2021, you need a minimum of 65 points to apply for an Australian Skilled Visa. However, the points threshold can vary based on the specific visa subclass and changes in immigration policies.
3. Can my family members be included in my visa application?
Yes, certain family members can be included in your visa application. This generally includes your spouse/partner and your or your spouse’s dependent children.
4. Can I study in Australia with a Skilled Visa?
Yes, with an Australian Skilled Visa, you have the right to study in Australia.
5. What is SkillSelect?
SkillSelect is an online system that manages applications for skilled migration to Australia.
6. How do I apply for Australian citizenship after getting a Skilled Visa?
After living in Australia on a valid Australian visa for four years, including the last 12 months as a permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
Conclusion
Securing an Australian Skilled Visa is like grabbing the golden ticket to the land of opportunities. The process might seem a bit overwhelming at first glance, but with the right guidance, you’ll be saying G’day to the kangaroos in no time. So, are you ready to pack your bags for the Down Under adventure?