How to immigrate to Australia: professional and student immigration. Immigration for labor, business, or investment. Requirements for documents and assessing chances of getting a visa.
Are immigrants welcome in Australia?
Australian immigration policy is one of the most open in the world. First of all, Australia cares about the wellbeing of its society and welcomes the immigration of businessmen and professionals, as well as talented students. In addition, immigration law allows immigrants and their families to fully live and work in the country thanks to a well-thought-out visa system. Immigrants have the opportunity to obtain a permanent residency, and then, after matching a certain number of criteria, obtain citizenship.
10 reasons to immigrate to Australia
Australia has the happiest people. Australia is among the top 10 countries with the happiest people on the planet according to the UN happiness rating[6]. The ranking measures such factors as the level of social support, GDP, corruption assessment, life expectancy and freedom of choice.
Australia welcomes immigrants. About a third of the population here are immigrants, and one in five has immigrated to Australia over the past seven years[1]. People of different cultures come here from all over the world, so it is easy to become “at home” here.
A tolerant society. Thanks to the incredible cultural diversity of Australian society, the risk of being discriminated against is almost zero. In addition, same-sex marriage is legal in Australia, and the country provides asylum to people who have suffered human rights violations.
Australia has a great ecology. Australians are more satisfied with the quality of water and air in the country than anyone in the world[7].
An opportunity to enjoy the unique nature. The flora and fauna of Australia formed for millions of years separated from other continents: Australia has 6000 species of animals, many of which do not live anywhere else on the planet[8]. Due to the low population density and the care Australians devote to nature, Australia has preserved many places untouched by civilization.
Free and high-quality medical care for citizens and residents. Australia has a mixed health care system: both public and private medical insurances are available for free. At the same time, not only citizens but also immigrants with a permanent residence status can use free medical services. At the same time, medicine in Australia is one of the best in the world along with the countries of Western Europe and North America[9].
Sense of security. Australia is one of the safest countries in the world. This means that the level of violent crimes, as well as death in car accidents in Australia, trends to a world minimum[10].
The whole world will be open to you. The European Union, the USA, Canada and many other countries do not require Australian citizens to apply for a visa[2] — a convincing argument in favor of obtaining Australian citizenship.
Comfortable climate. Australia has a mild climate, and the number of hours of sunshine per year in some regions reaches 3000 hours[11].
The opportunity to take a family with you. Australian immigration policies allow immigrants to bring loved ones with them, including their partner, even before they legally marry.
5 reasons not to immigrate to Australia
Expensive flights. Due to the remoteness of Australia from other continents and countries, travel and flying to one’s homeland will be expensive.
Dangerous animals. Australia has many species of poisonous animals and insects. For example, the Sydney funnel-web spider is one of the most poisonous in the world.
Expensive kindergartens. Price can be 1,148 USD/month or even higher[12].
Expensive housing, especially in large cities. in Sydney, the minimum price for renting a one-room apartment away from downtown is around 923 USD/month[13].
Paid post-secondary education. Students pay for their education themselves, although you can try to find a scholarship.
In order to immigrate to Australia, you need to get an immigrant visa that automatically gives the right for permanent residence in Australia. One of the features of the immigration process is that you can apply for a visa online. Submission of biometric data is the only step at which you will need to visit the Australian embassy because a visa is issued by e-mail. However, this does not mean that immigration to Australia is quick and easy. The candidate will need to collect a lot of documents, the preparation of which may take longer than applying for the visa itself: this includes a language certificate, confirmation of professional qualifications by the Australian authorities, and a job offer. For this reason, you should start preparing for immigration in advance, but take your time, buying tickets right away is not worth it.
Ways to immigrate to Australia
Type of immigration
Exam*
Cost
Consideration
Condition
Student
5.5+
366 USD
1-10 weeks
Education at a university or a language program
Professional
6.0+
2,390 USD
12-15 months
High qualifications
Labor
6.0+
2,390 USD
5-10 months
Job offer
Business and investment
4.5+
1,448 USD
May vary
Opening or acquiring a business and investing in the Australian economy
Marriage
No
760 USD
12-29 months
Groom, bride, spouse or partner is a citizen or resident of Australia
To immigrate to Australia, you can choose to go there to study with a student visa, find work after graduation and stay there permanently. Student visas are given to students of secondary schools, vocational schools, and universities. After graduation, a foreign student can obtain a temporary graduate visa for employment. To obtain an Australian student visa, you must first go to an educational institution and receive a confirmation of admission. After obtaining a visa, a student can enter the country and start studying. The cost of a student visa starts from 366 USD and depends on the level of training and other factors — you can calculate the cost for yourself using a special pricing estimator.
Work while studying
In Australia, students can work while studying, which allows them to reduce the cost of living. You can start to work immediately after beginning your studies. There is a restriction on working hours — the student has the right to work no more than 20 hours a week. It should be noted that working on your free time, most likely, will not provide you with a sufficient income to lead a leisurely life and will only serve as a part-time job.
Written statement explaining the applicant’s ties to the homeland (Genuine Temporary Entrant). It needs to show substantial evidence of the candidate’s intent to return home after graduation. Supporting documents like certificates of family ties, current employment, documents on previous education, etc. are attached to the statement. This does not obligate the student to return back immediately after graduation since after obtaining a degree the student is free to seek employment. This serves more as a precaution to prevent illegal immigration under the guise of education;
Other documents upon request (police certificate, medical certificate, etc.)
The most convenient choice for work after university is a temporary graduate visa and a skilled-recognized graduate visa. They are designed for those who intend to build a career in Australia. To obtain such visas, you must be under the age of 50 and confirm your qualification in a profession that is on the skilled occupation list (SOL) or complete a course from the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). After obtaining this visa, you can apply for a permanent residence visa and apply for citizenship.
To attract qualified professionals from around the world, Australia created a separate immigration method for professionals using the Skilled Independent Visa (189). The main difference between professional and labor immigration is that the candidate does not need to have a standing job offer in order to get a visa. The Immigration Service evaluates the applicant’s Expression of Interest on SkillSellect, where he describes himself and his qualifications. A professional may also request the support of the country, state or territory. If he is chosen, he will be able to apply for a Skilled Nominated Visa (190). A candidate’s application must score at least 65 points in a special test (189, 190) to be invited to apply for a visa. For professional immigration to Australia, you must know English at B2+ level and confirm a degree and work experience.
Does Australia need professionals?
Australia encourages the immigration of professionals for two reasons. Firstly, it seeks to fill the labor market with people with the highest possible qualifications. Secondly, the state needs specialists in certain states and territories due to a labor shortage, which is caused by a low population density. Therefore, the chances for successful immigration are higher for those whose profession is on the skilled occupation list and are able to confirm their education and work experience in accordance with Australian standards.
The most sought-after professions in Australia
Requirements for obtaining a skilled nominated visa
18-45 years old (there are some exceptions for researchers, professors, and other categories);
The presence of higher or vocational education;
Sought-after profession;
Work experience;
Nomination from an Australian state or territory for a 190 visa;
Invitation to apply for a visa (after approval of Expression of Interest);
Other documents upon request.
The cost of applying for a visa starts from 2,390 USD. Expression of Interest is free.
How to prove qualifications
How to prove qualifications
Confirmation of English proficiency
Confirmation of English proficiency
The immigration process for professionals
Make sure that the requirements are met;
Confirm professional qualifications;
Submit Expression of Interest on SkillSelect. For a 190 state/territory sponsored visa, indicate the need for a sponsorship;
Wait for an invitation to apply for a visa;
Collect documents and apply for a visa online within 60 days after receiving the invitation;
Submit biometric data by invitation;
Wait for the results (5-10 months);
Receive and print a digital visa;
Relocate to Australia.
How to increase the chances of getting a visa?
Get high English exam scores;
Confirm the presence of work experience;
Ask a partner or spouse to also apply for a visa — this will give an extra 5 points if the partner meets the established criteria for age and qualification.
If you find work in Australia, you can immigrate there with an Employer Nomination Scheme (186). Visa review takes 12-15 months with the cost of 2,390 USD.
Sample list of documents for Employer Nomination Scheme 186
Sample list of documents for Employer Nomination Scheme 186
Labor immigration process
Verify that your application meets the requirements;
Confirm professional qualifications;
Find an employer for nomination application. The employer will receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN), which then must be forwarded to the candidate;
Immigration to Australia for business innovation and investment
Immigration of entrepreneurs and investors is important for Australia, as well as for many other countries: foreign entrepreneurs and investors provide capital inflows, create jobs, and fill up the shortages of goods and services in the market. Before immigration, the businessman must analyze the local market, negotiate with potential partners, states and territories, if necessary, present a business plan. When everything is ready, you need to submit an Expression of Interest and wait for the invitation to apply for a visa. Visas can also be obtained for investing in the Australian economy. For both categories of candidates visas of one subclass are provided.
Requirements for obtaining a business innovation and investment visa
Be younger than 55 years old. The Migration Service allows exceptions if the state/territory needs the proposed business;
Confirmed professional and business experience;
For a 188 visa, the score of at least 65 points in the Points Test;
Own a business or manage it in Australia for 4 years, or
Intend to open a business in Australia, have at least 636,385 USD and provide a detailed business plan, or
Invest from 954,577 USD in Australia.
Sample list of documents
Copy of the information page of the passport (photo, personal data, passport validity period);
2 pcs 35x45 mm photographs on a white background and with the name printed on the back;
Bank statement;
Documents confirming business experience (business ownership, financial history, etc.);
Confirmation of qualifications;
Confirmation of state/territory support;
A business plan (including a description of how the business will help Australia's economy);
Information about the partner and children under 18 years of age or dependent relatives;
Police certificate from Australia, if the candidate has lived there for more than a year in the past 10 years;
An invitation to submit an application that a candidate receives after the Expression of Interest is reviewed;
Other documents upon request.
The immigration process for entrepreneurs and investors
Sending an Expression of Interest to receive support (sponsorship) from a state or territory in order to start a business. This is also true for those who already conducted business in the country;
Confirm professional qualifications and experience;
Receive an invitation;
Receive a medical certificate;
Collect the documents and apply for a visa;
Submit the biometric data when invited;
Wait for results, the time required for the application review may vary on a case by case basis;
Receive the digital visa via email;
Print your visa and travel to Australia;
Get a permanent visa 888 after a few years (the period may vary on a case by case basis).
How to increase the chances of getting a visa?
Plan a business based on the needs of the Australian economy;
Start negotiating with companies and states/territories in advance.
For business/investment owners in Australia who already have a 188 visa
1,531 USD
Learn more about visas for businessmen on the official website (select the business or investment section).
Marriage immigration and family reunification visa in Australia
This is the easiest way to immigrate to Australia that does not require language skills, education or professional experience. For marriage immigration, you need to get a special visa for the bride/groom — such a visa is needed to enter the country and marry a citizen or resident of the country. After that, you can easily get a visa for a permanent stay in Australia. Australians also recognize same-sex marriage.
Requirements for obtaining a marriage visa
18+ years old;
The willingness of the spouse/partner to sponsor the applicant;
Need to take care of a sick relative living in Australia, or are in the need of care yourself and seek help from an Australian relative.
For these purposes, a system of temporary and permanent visas is implemented, which are selected on a case by case basis. Information on the Department of home affairs website.
Humanitarian immigration to Australia
People, who have left their home country and cannot or do not want to return, due to the existing risk of facing persecution, may be granted an asylum in Australia. In this case, the candidate must provide evidence that will convince Australian authorities to grant the candidate asylum. A refugee may apply for a visa from another country or directly from Australia.
Seeking asylum after entering the country legally
Australia provides political asylum to people whose rights are violated or who face persecution for political reasons in their own country. You can apply for a refugee visa from abroad (refugee visa, global special humanitarian visa), or if you arrived in Australia legally with any other visa (protection visa). Travel expenses are reimbursed to holders of refugee visas 200, 201, 203 and 204. Holders of a 202 visa must pay for the flight themselves.
Seeking asylum after entering the country illegally
Arrivals in Australia can only apply for a Temporary Protection visa 785 or Save Haven Enterprise visa 790. However, a border violator will be sent to an immigration prison. The living conditions in such establishments are decent — you can use free medical, dental and legal services — a free lawyer is assigned to conduct asylum proceedings. However, staying in prison may take a long time: it takes months to process an application, as there are a lot of people seeking asylum in Australia. If the asylum application is rejected, the illegal must immediately leave the country at his own expense. The fact of the illegal border crossing and visa rejection remains in the personal file.
Who is a viable candidate for an asylum in Australia?
Asylum in Australia can be obtained by people who are persecuted in their home country on the basis of:
Race;
Nationality;
Membership in a social group (including sexual minorities);
Religion
Political views.
Those who fled from their country because of a humanitarian catastrophe like war, famine, genocide and massive violations of human rights can also count on protection.
Requirements for obtaining a refugee visa or protection
Match the definition of a refugee (as defined by the UN and 1958);
Provide evidence of persecution or violation of rights in one’s own country;
Have no debts to Australia;
Agree to obey Australian laws and respect the Australian way of life.
How to prove the fact of the persecution
It is necessary to provide as much evidence of the persecution as possible:
Inquiries from medical institutions;
Photo evidence;
Received letters with threats;
News articles;
Evidence of engagement with human rights organizations.
It must be reported if the refugee was subjected to torture, serious bodily harm was inflicted, or there is a threat of execution at home due to persecution on the basis of the indicated reasons.
Documents for obtaining asylum or protection:
Copy of the information page of the passport (photo, personal data, passport validity period);
2 pcs 35x45 mm photographs on a white background and with the name printed on the back;
Copies of visas and residence permits;
Relationship documents (certificates of marriage, divorce);
Information about dependent children and family members;
This is the last stage of immigration for those who want to get certain rights that are not available to permanent residents — for example, the right to vote in elections and be elected. An Australian passport will also allow you to travel without a visa almost all over the world[2]. To obtain it, you need to prove your close ties with Australia and show excellent knowledge of Australian culture.
Citizenship requirements
Permanent residence status;
To live in the country for at least 4 years;
To live outside Australia for no more than 12 months in the last 4 years and no more than 90 days in the last 12 months;
To have a positive personal characteristic. Relations with the law enforcement in Australia and other countries are taken into account;
Understand Australian societal and cultural values and English proficiency;
Intent to stay in Australia or maintain close contact with the country.
Any other documents confirming compliance with the requirements.
Stages of obtaining citizenship
Collect the documents;
Pay a fee of 181 USD;
Apply for citizenship online;
Pass an interview and a citizenship test;
Wait for a decision;
Attend the official ceremony of awarding a citizenship.
Where to seek help — MARA agencies
To immigrate to Australia, you can collect all the documents and apply for a visa yourself or use the services of immigration agents. Immigration agents are professionals who help you to choose the right type of visa, collect the required documents, draw up and apply for a visa, and, if necessary, communicate with the Australian Department on behalf of the client. The state controls the quality of services in this area, so all agents who work in Australia are registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA). A qualified agent is a specialist in immigration law. You can find an agent on the official website of the Registration Chamber of Immigration Agents.
You can apply for a visa yourself by contacting the Department of Home Affairs Australia on their website. There, you can use the convenient navigation system to choose a suitable visa and apply online.
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