Skilled Visa Archives - Visa Go Australia

Changes to skills assessment for automotive trades

Australia, Skilled Visa, Skills Assessment, Vehicle Painters & Panel Beaters, Visa Update

Read the changes to skills assessment for automotive trades

TRA (Trades Recognition Australia) is removing the mandatory OSAP assessment requirement for some passport countries for automotive jobs.

Instead, qualified applicants from countries with similar qualification systems can use the simpler and cheaper MSA (migration skills assessment) program.

This decision came after discussions with industry reps and considering countries with standards like Australia’s.

This change now allows qualified applicants from 1 April 2023 to choose the cheaper MSA program (managed by TRA). OSAP (offshore skills assessment program) assessments are still an option for those needing an Australian qualification.

The below occupations and countries are now eligible for the MSA program:

Occupations:

Automotive Electrician [321111]

Motor Mechanic (General) [321211]

Panelbeater [324111]*

Vehicle Painter [324311]

Diesel Mechanic [321212]

Countries of passport:

China*

Ireland

Sri Lanka

United Kingdom

* Chinese applicants under the Panelbeater occupation will still be required to be assessed under OSAP, consistent with the nominated country/occupation combinations under Migration (IMMI 18/039: Mandatory Skills Assessment—Subclass 482 Visa) Instrument 2018.

An example: If you’re a UK qualified Motor Mechanic, you can now apply through TRA and bypass the technical interview stage. This will save you $2,000 in fees and bypass the lengthy wait for a technical interview.

See full details on the TRA website.

Do you need a skills assessment for automotive trades? Book a visa consultation to see if you’re eligible to apply.

June 14, 2024

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an Australian Visa

Australia, News, Skilled Visa, Visa, Visa Update

Australia is a popular destination for people looking to move abroad for work, study, or to start a new life. However, the process of applying for an Australian visa can be complex and overwhelming.

Many people make mistakes during the application process that can result in delays or even rejection of their visa. To ensure a smooth and successful visa application, here are some common mistakes to avoid when applying for an Australian visa.

Not Seeking Professional Help

One of the biggest mistakes people make when applying for an Australian visa is not seeking professional help. While it may seem like a simple process, there are many intricacies and requirements that must be met in order to be granted a visa.

A migration agent can provide valuable guidance and assistance throughout the application process, increasing your chances of success.

Not Understanding the Visa Requirements

Each type of Australian visa has its own set of requirements that must be met in order to be granted. Many people make the mistake of not thoroughly understanding these requirements before applying.

This can result in a rejected application or delays while trying to gather the necessary documents. It is important to carefully read and understand the visa requirements before beginning the application process.

Providing Incomplete or Inaccurate Information

When filling out the visa application, it is crucial to provide complete and accurate information. Many people make the mistake of leaving out important details or providing incorrect information, which can lead to a rejected application.

It is important to double check all information before submitting the application to ensure its accuracy. Migrations agents check over applications and documents on multiple occasions throughout the visa process.

Not Meeting Health and Character Requirements

In order to be granted an Australian visa, applicants must meet certain health and character requirements. This often includes undergoing a medical examination and providing a police clearance certificate.

Many people make the mistake of not completing these requirements or not providing the necessary documents, resulting in additional paperwork. It is important to carefully follow all health and character requirements to avoid any delays or rejections.

It is also important to declare all criminal convictions, cautions and charges.

Not Applying for the Right Visa

Another common mistake is applying for the wrong type of visa. Australia offers a variety of visas for different purposes, such as work, study, or family sponsorship.

It is important to carefully research and understand which visa is most suitable for your situation before beginning the application process. Applying for the wrong visa can result in a rejected application and may also negatively affect future visa applications. Consulting with an experienced migration agent before starting the visa process is advisable.

Book a visa consultation for $120 with Visa Go Australia

Waiting Until the Last Minute

The visa application process can take several months, so it is important to start the process as early as possible. Many people make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to apply, which can result in delays or even missing important deadlines.

It is important to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to complete the application and gather all necessary documents.

See the latest visa processing times on the Department website

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a successful Australian visa application. Remember to seek professional help, thoroughly understand the visa requirements, provide accurate information, meet health and character requirements, apply for the right visa, and start the process early.

With careful planning and attention to detail, you can make your dream of moving to Australia a reality!

April 17, 2024

Understanding Australia’s Migration Program

Australia, Skilled Visa, Visa, Visa Update

Australia’s migration program runs from 1 July to 30 June. Each year, the Government sets the size and composition of the migration program. Understanding Australia’s Migration Program can give you insight into your chances of securing a visa.

Australia’s Migration Program

The program consists of three streams: Skilled, Family and Special Eligibility.

The skilled stream is created to attract highly skilled workers into Australia. This stream supports the Australian economy and fills labour shortages.

Popular skilled stream visas include skilled, employer sponsored, business and talent applications.

The family stream enables Australian citizens, permanent residents, or Eligible NZ citizens to reunite with immediate family members. This includes partners, parents, orphan relatives, aged dependent relatives, and carers.

Popular family stream visas include partner, parent and remaining relative applications.

The special eligibility stream includes applicants who do not fit into skilled or family streams. This stream is very small.

An example is former permanent residents returning to Australia.

How many visas are available?

There are two primary considerations for each year’s migration program:

How many visas will be available?
Where will visas be allocated?

The skilled stream is crucial for supporting Australia’s economy, whilst the family stream is important for social cohesion.

Traditionally, the skilled stream receives the majority of visa allocations in each migration program. In 2019–20, the skill stream accounted for 70 per cent of the total Program. However in 2020-21, the Government created a more equal balance in attempt to reduce the partner visa backlog.

There is increased pressure on the Government to bring back this balance, especially for parents. The processing time for contributory parent visas has ballooned to 12+ years.

By understanding Australia’s Migration Program, you can appreciate why some visas take longer to process.

To discover your chances of securing an Australian visa, book a consultation with our Migration Agent.

Read the 2022-23 Migration Program Report

Learn more about Australian visas by completing our free online assessment.

January 23, 2024

WA State Sponsorship Program re-opened 2023-24

Australia, Skilled Visa, Visa Update

WA State Sponsorship Program re-opened 2023-24! Western Australia have re-opened their state sponsorship program for 2023-24. This allows eligible candidates to apply for state nomination from WA.

State sponsorship is a requirement in obtaining a subclass 190 and 491 visa.

Learn more about state sponsored visas.

WA State Sponsorship Program re-opened 2023-24

The WA Government is making it easier for skilled migrants to obtain sponsorship. This includes:

No application fee;
Equal ranking for interstate and overseas applicants;
Prioritised invitations for applicants in ‘critical’ industries (refer to ranking system below below);
Reduced employment requirements; and
No employment contract requirement for candidates invited through a WA building and construction industry sector occupation.

WA has also created the Construction Visa Subsidy program, whereby eligible trade occupations can receive a grant of $10,000!

Learn more about Western Australia’s Construction Visa Subsidy program.

Before applying, we recommend paying close attention to the work experience and contract of employment requirements. You can assess your eligibility by visiting the Migration WA website. Alternatively, book a visa consultation with us.

WA Invitations – Rankings and issue dates

WA continue to operate a ranking system, as outlined below:

currently residing in Western Australia
currently residing offshore or in another Australian state or territory
occupations in priority WA Industry sectors (in no particular order):
– building and construction;
– healthcare and social assistance;
– hospitality and tourism; and
– education and training.
occupations in all other WA industry sector
highest EOI points score
oldest EOI submission date

This means that someone living in WA will receive an invitation before someone on higher points for example.

Invitations for WA State nomination are likely to be issued monthly. The number of invitations issued each month may vary, depending on the number of applications being processed by WA. If you are invited, WA Migration Services will contact you via email with a link to the state nomination application form.

Having an eligible EOI submitted in SkillSelect does not guarantee you will receive an invitation for State nomination.

Move to WA

Interested in moving to Western Australia? Book a consultation with our Migration Agent to discuss your visa options in detail.

We also have some WA jobs here: https://visa-go.com/jobs-in-australia/

August 24, 2023

Get paid to build a life in WA!

Australia, Employer Sponsored Visa, News, Skilled Visa, Visa, Visa Update

Introducing WA’s Construction Visa Subsidy Program – a monetary incentive for migrants to build a life in WA. Claim up to $10,000!

Build a life in WA!

WA Construction Visa Subsidy Program

The WA State Government created this program to entice skilled construction workers to relocate to WA. It aims to fill construction jobs, as the demand for housing in WA continues to grow.

There are a variety of construction and building occupations included. From electricians, to architects, surveyors, bricklayers and more!

This program is for skilled migrants wanting to build a life in WA. No other states or territories are currently offering this program. but watch this space…

How much money can I claim?

Skilled migrants outside Australia – $10,000 paid in 2 instalments
Skilled migrants inside Australia – $5,000 paid in 2 instalments

Am I eligible for this grant?

To apply, you must meet all the following:

Be granted a subclass 190 or 491 visa (with WA sponsorship);
Work for a WA business headquartered and undertaking building and construction work in WA;
Work in an eligible occupation (refer to this occupation list)

There are currently 34 construction occupations on the WASMOL.

Alternatively, WA employers sponsoring skilled migrants can claim this grant. This includes visa subclasses 482, 494 and 186 and DAMA’s.

See the full terms and condition of this program on the Migration WA website.

How do I apply?

Follow these steps:

Obtain WA state sponsored visa (subclass 190 or 491).
Register your arrival in Australia and visa approval with WA Migration Services here: Register your arrival · WA Migration Services (powerappsportals.com)
Start employment with an eligible employer and submit first claim here: https://migrationservices.powerappsportals.com/cvsp-snmp/
After six months working in WA’s construction industry, submit your final claim here: https://migrationservices.powerappsportals.com/cvsp-snmp/

Visa Go Australia can process the first stage by helping you obtain a skilled visa. Following this, there’s help available from the Construction Migration Office.

Build a life in WA and enjoy the best beaches in the world!

August 24, 2023

482 visa update: TSMIT to increase on 1 July

Australia, Employer Sponsored Visa, Skilled Visa

From 1 July 2023, the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) will increase to $70,000.

The TSMIT is the minimum annual wage a 482 visa holder can be paid. Since 2013, the TSMIT has been $53,900.

By raising the TSMIT to an acceptable market rate, it protects against undermining the Australian workforce. It’s hoped that increasing the TSMIT will encourage Australians to take up local jobs.

Are you interested in employer sponsorship? Learn about the 482 visa on our dedicated webpage.

May 12, 2023

Increased Processing Times for Vetassess Trades

Australia, Chef, Hairdresser, Motor Mechanic, News, Skilled Visa, Skills Assessment

Are you a tradesperson applying for a skills assessment through Vetassess? Read the latest update on processing times.

Processing Times for Vetassess Trades

The processing time for Vetassess skills assessments continues to grow. If you’re lodging a trade skills assessment, you should allow for extra processing time.

You cannot apply for a skilled visa without first obtaining a positive skills assessment.

Vetassess executive director Rob Thomason provides an explanation.

“We are currently dealing with an unprecedented number of trade applications, which has extended our processing times.

We understand this is causing frustration for you and your clients and want you to know that we are cognisant of the issue and are working to reduce our assessment times.

As you are aware, we are the only Trades Recognition Australia (TRA)-approved registered training organisation for occupations such as Diesel Motor Mechanic (321212), Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic (342111), Toolmaker (323412) and Hairdressing (391111), and only one of two providers of assessment services for Motor Mechanic (General) (321211) and Automotive Electrician (321111).

An increase in demand for these occupations along with a shortage of qualified assessors in Australia, particularly for motor mechanics and engineering trades, has resulted in extended processing times.

We continue to recruit qualified assessors to deal with this increase and have resumed face-to-face assessments in the Philippines and elsewhere. We will hold practical assessments in South Africa from 28 – 31 March and hope to advise of other dates and venues soon.

It is important to note that all applications we receive are processed based on the lodgement date, i.e., the date in which we received payment approval from TRA.

We would like to apologise to you and your clients for the delays and assure you we are working hard to process skills assessments as quickly as possible.”

At Visa Go Australia we can assist with your skills assessment and visa application. We prepare you for each step of the visa process.

Learn more about your skilled visa options

February 16, 2023

Are you an Electrician moving to Australia?

Australia, Electrician, Employer Sponsored Visa, Future Skills International, News, Skilled Visa, Skills Assessment, Visa

Are you an electrician moving to Australia? At Visa Go Australia we understand it can be a daunting process. Below, we outline key considerations when moving to Australia.

Electrician visa options

Electricians are in demand in Australia. This means there are lots of jobs and visa options available to you. Before you start spending money on the visa process, ensure you’re eligible to apply for a visa first.

Seeking advice from an experienced Migration Agent will help you understand which visas you can apply for. We offer visa consultations with our Migration Agent for just $100 AU. We think it’s a worthwhile investment before spending thousands on a skills assessment and visa.

Book a visa consultation with our Migration Agent Darren Chatt

Attend our free Electrician moving to Australia webinar

Complete your electrician skills assessment

Future Skills International conduct skills assessments for electricians

If you’re an electrician moving to Australia, you need to ensure you can work. The skills assessment is a part of this process.

You must be licensed to work as an electrician in Australia. Obtaining a positive skills assessment will issue with an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR). Once you have an OTSR, you can apply for a provisional electrical license.

Learn more about the skills assessment process for electricians

Having a positive skills assessment will also give you the option of applying for a permanent residency visa. This is the best pathway for those looking to move to Australia on a long-term basis.

If you’re applying for a short-term visa like the working holiday, you can use our skills assessment only service. This includes a dedicated case processor to help you obtain a positive skills assessment. It’s cheaper than our full visa service.

To summarise

Are you ready to move to Australia as an electrician? There may be several visa options available to you, so it’s best to speak with a Migration Agent to find out what’s best suited.

Electrician is on Australia’s skills list. This means skilled visas and employer sponsored visas are available. Australia’s working holiday visa is another popular option to live in work in Australia as an electrician.

To work in Australia, you’ll need to become licensed. To get your Australian electrical licensing you must complete a skills assessment with Future Skills International. The skills assessment is also the first part of applying for an Australian skilled visa, so it’s a necessary investment.

If you need help in moving to Australia, you can contact us for reliable and helpful advice.

February 10, 2023

Attending a Vetassess Technical Interview in Perth

Australia, Employer Sponsored Visa, Skilled Visa, Skills Assessment

If you’re a tradesperson moving to Australia, you may need to complete a Vetassess technical interview. These interviews take place across many cities worldwide, including Perth Australia.

At Visa Go Australia we host Vetassess technical interviews in our Perth and Edinburgh offices.

Directions to your Vetassess technical interview in Perth

Our office is in Perth’s CDB at Level 13, 37 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000.

We have many public transport options including trains, buses, and the underground. Alternatively, there are city centre car parks. We recommend pre-booking a space and arriving early.

Our Perth Office – 37 Citibank House

Our building is called Citibank House which you will see written on the outside of the building. When you arrive make your way to level 13 in the lifts. Here you can take a seat in reception and wait for our assessing co-ordinator Kimberley. There are toilets on this level.

The Perth office

The interview takes place in a private office. The space is fully air-conditioned with lots of natural light. Kimberley will provide you with water and set up your call with Vetassess. The technical interview is conducted over video call and headset. We sanitise all equipment and furniture after each use.

Our beautiful office view

If you require anything during your interview you can ask Kimberley. She will be in the room quietly working at a separate desk. There will be no phone calls or interruptions during your interview. You will also be asked to turn off your mobile and hand it to Kimberley.

Vetassess will advise you what to bring to your interview, and what time and date to attend. If you arrive early, you are welcomed to sit in our reception. Alternatively, you can try a local coffee shop or visit the supreme court gardens next door.

Final words

We understand it can be nerve-wracking attending your Vetassess technical interview in Perth. We aim to make the process as comfortable as possible. If you need advice about your interview, we encourage you to speak directly with Vetassess. You can also refer to the candidate guide on their website.

We are unable to tell you if you’ve been successful on the day of your interview. Vetassess will contact you directly with your results at a later date.

We look forward to welcoming you at our office for your technical interview.

December 13, 2022

Move to Australia as an Electrician Webinar

Australia, Electrician, Employer Sponsored Visa, News, Skilled Visa, Skills Assessment, Visa, Webinar, Working Holiday Visa

Want to move to Australia as an electrician? This webinar is for you!

Move to Australia as an Electrician Webinar

Join Visa Go Australia and Future Skills International for an exclusive event.

When: Thursday 23 March 2023
Time: 5pm Queensland ‎(UTC+10)‎/7am United Kingdom ‎(UTC)‎
Where: Online Zoom – Register here

This webinar is for electricians wanting to live and work in Australia. Learn about electrician skills assessment, licensing and visas.

You can expect reliable advice from industry professionals. This is an interactive session with plenty of time for questions. Numbers for our ‘Move to Australia as an Electrician Webinar’ are limited.

What to expect from our webinar

Hear from Jeff Harman, an electrical assessor from Future Skills International. He will be talking about the electrician skills assessment, electrical licensing and more.

Migration Agent Darren Chatt will talk over the many visa options available to electricians. Learn about employer sponsorship, working holidays and skilled visas. Discover which Australian visa best suits your relocation plans.

Following a brief presentation, the speakers will be available to answer your questions. Both Jeff and Darren have years of experience in their industries. This is an excellent opportunity to seek free advice about moving to Australia as an electrician.

Register here to join this webinar.

November 11, 2022