COVID-19 almost brought the world to a halt, and it has had the same effect on Australian visa applications. Australian visas are still being processed, however it is evident that the current global pandemic is having some impact.
The MIA (Migration Institute of Australia) and its members are the authority and benchmark for informed, trusted and respected migration practice and leadership. Visa Go Australia’s licensed Migration Agent Darren Chatt MARN:0211214 is a long-standing MIA member.
Last month the MIA surveyed its members on visa processing trends during COVID-19. “The purpose of collecting this data is to obtain a clearer understanding of the characteristics of application grants or refusals and permission to enter Australia requests for the information of MIA members,” the MIA said.
The number of responses MIA received was relatively low, so it is not possible to state that these results represent processing trends. However, the data is useful in providing insight during this current time.
Key findings from MIA survey:
- Processing has slowed and more onshore applications are being granted than offshore (a rate of 5:1).
- Critical sector occupations are being prioritised onshore.
- Case Officers appear to be issuing more ‘requests for further information’ in relation to employer-sponsored applications, checking that roles are still necessary in the current climate.
- Members report that employer-sponsored 482, 186 and 187 are being granted more frequently than other subclasses, even though fewer are coming through than earlier in the year.
- At the moment, 801 partner visas are the second most frequently granted visa type.
- Practitioners have seen a small number of 491 and 489 visa approvals for onshore applicants.
- There are reports of subclass 500 and 485 approvals coming through for onshore applicants.
- ‘Registered Nurse’ is the occupation that has seen the largest number of grants.
Furthermore, these key findings are representative of what we are seeing here at Visa Go Australia; applications are being processed but at a slower rate. We have also seen more movement with onshore visa applications. Since COVID heightened in March/April we have still been receiving skilled visa grants.
Additional factors which may have slowed down progression of visas include:
- English testing centres closed – Many applicants must sit an English language test, for reasons such as gaining extra points toward their skilled application, or to simply meet the English language requirements. COVID created mass closures of testing centres, meaning English tests for immigration purposes have been temporarily suspended.
- Panel Physicians closures – For many Australian visas, applicants must undergo a medical examination. As a result of COVID-19 forcing healthcare facilities to close, applicants have been unable to complete their medical examinations during lockdown which has caused delays. Fortunately, we are now seeing this change – some of our clients have even had their appointments brought forward.
- Priority given to onshore applications – Whilst Australian borders remain closed, it is understandable that priority is given to applicants onshore. It makes little sense for Case Officers to grant offshore visas with short validity entry dates when applicants are unable to enter the country. However, offshore visa applications are still be processed.
- The Department of Home Affairs practising safe work environments – The Department must create safe working practices by setting employees up to work from home and implementing social distancing measures for essential office-based staff. Understandably, this can impact productivity and therefore how quickly visas can be processed.
If you are planning to start your Australian visa journey, then there is nothing to stop you from proceeding. Applications are open, and the sooner you join the queue, the closer you will be to having your visa. We also anticipate that once Australia’s borders open again, there will be a surge in demand for visas. COVID will cause implications in applying for your Australian visa, however with professional guidance and a lot of patience, we are confident that migration to Australia is still achievable.
Speak with a licensed Migration Agent here: https://visa-go.com/about-us/contact-us/
See if you qualify for an Australian visa here: https://visa-go.com/australia/
How to choose a Migration Agent in the UK
Australia, NewsMigration Agents in the UK
Are you searching for a Migration Agent to process your Australian visa? You are in luck – there are a few respected and experienced Migration Agents in the UK who offer a variety of visa services.
A good Migration Agent will identify the best visa pathway available for you, using their extensive knowledge of current migration law. As part of their MARA licensing, agents must undergo continuous learning to renew their license each year. You can read more about the benefits of using a Migration Agent and the professional requirements on the MARA website.
Choosing a Migration Agent
Below, we outline some of the key considerations when choosing a Migration Agent in the UK to process your Australian visa.
Contact reputable Migration Agents and ask for a detailed quote in writing. This will outline the full cost of your visa and detail the level of service you will receive. It is important to remember that the cheapest service may not always be the best.
Some companies offer visa consultations with a licensed Migration Agent. This is a fantastic option if you want reliable and honest advice about your chances of securing a visa, before you spend money starting the process.
At Visa Go Australia, a consultation with our licensed Migration Agent Darren Chatt costs just £60.
When you liaise with a company there are a few things to keep in mind:
Why choose Migration Agent Darren Chatt at Visa Go Australia
Darren Chatt MARN:0211214 has helped thousands of people migrate to Australia, and is highly regarded in the Australian migration industry. Darren has been a member of MARA and the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) since 2002, a board member of the European Chapter of MIA, and is also a Registered Migration Agent for New Zealand.
When you use Visa Go Australia to process your visa, you can be assured that Darren is fully involved with your application, at every step, and works closely with his team to secure the best outcomes.
Discover 5 simple tips on how to choose a Migration Agent
Arrange a visa consultation with Darren today
The impact of COVID on Australia’s Migration Programme
NewsCOVID and Australia’s Migration Programme
The Department of Home Affairs has produced a fact sheet which provides new information on the impact of COVID on Australia’s Migration Programme for 2020-21.
The fact sheet addresses questions around how COVID will shape Australia’s Migration Programme, and what the Government is doing to ensure the visa system supports economic recovery post-COVID.
COVID and Migration Policy
The Department emphasises that migration policy must protect Australians’ best interests, ensuring there are job opportunities for locals. Unsurprisingly, Australia’s unemployment rate has risen during the COVID pandemic. Consequently, there is pressure on the Government to tackle Australian unemployment first, before allowing migrants to come to Australia. It is crucial that everyone has access to the jobs and support they need in Australia.
However, the fact sheet also recognises that skilled migrants will play a big part in Australia’s economic and health recovery. Support for critical industries such as health and food production are expected to drive skilled visa invitations.
State and Territory Nominations
The Department confirms that State and Territory nominated visas will continue to be a part of the Migration Programme. This means invitations for skilled visas (subclass’ 190 and 491) can continue to be issued in line with states’ economic shortages.
The Department will “take into consideration the economic conditions in Australia, future skill needs, changes in the labour market and the population objectives of states and territories.” (The Department of Home Affairs 2020).
Visa Allocations
Until otherwise advised, the existing 2019-20 Migration Programme settings will remain in place. Consequently, the 2020-21 planning ceiling will be retained at 160,000 places for the migration year.
This includes:
Given these allocations, we anticipate visa processing times will remain lengthy, as more people apply than there are spaces. You can refer to the Department website for monthly updated visa processing times.
Arrange a consultation to seek professional visa advice.
Seeking Immigration Advice from Unlicensed Advisors
Australia, New Zealand, VisaThe IAA and Immigration Advice
The Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) is an independent body, created to protect the interests of applicants receiving New Zealand immigration advice. This includes advising which visa an applicant is eligible for, or assisting someone in applying for a visa.
Anyone giving immigration advice must hold a current licence, unless they are one of the small number of exempt people such as Citizens Advice Bureaux staff. Providing New Zealand visa advice without a license is unlawful, and will have serious consequences for the applicant and the advisor.
The IAA and Unlicensed Advisors
A recent news story detailed how one businessman has been punished for providing immigration advice without being licensed or exempt. The man promoted New Zealand as a migrant destination and provided immigration advice to seminar attendees. Moreover, he was dishonest about the number of clients he had helped secure visas. Consequently, the businessman was sentenced to six months community detention, 12 months supervision and ordered to pay $5600 reparation to his victims. You can read the full story on the IAA website.
The Dangers of Using an Unlicensed Advisor
For the applicant, seeking visa advice from an unlicensed individual can have dire results too. Lodging a visa on incorrect advice can forfeit your application fee. Moreover, it may negatively affect future applications and travel to New Zealand.
The emigration process involves investing a lot of time, money and emotional efforts. Most applicants spend at least 12 months securing their visa application, so understandably it would be devastating to be subject to fraudulent activity!
You can feel confident in knowing that our primary agent Darren Chatt is registered for both Australia and New Zealand to provide immigration advice.
You can see a complete list of licensed New Zealand agents here: https://iaa.ewr.govt.nz/PublicRegister/Search.aspx
Look over registered Australian Migration Agents here: https://www.mara.gov.au/
Can I apply for an Australian Working Holiday Visa during COVID?
Australia, NewsThe Australian Working Holiday Visa
As lockdown restrictions slowly begin to ease, many people are looking towards future travel plans. The Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is a popular choice for those wishing to spend a year working and travelling around Australia. This visa costs $485.00 AUD and is generally processed within one month, making it accessible to many.
The basic eligibility requirements are:
When can I apply?
You can apply for the 417 visa online by creating an ImmiAccount. This visa is valid for 12 months, meaning you have this period to enter Australia and activate your visa.
Due to the COVID pandemic, Australia’s borders remain closed to most people – including 417 visa holders. So, while you can still apply for this visa, you will be unable to use it in the immediate future.
Moreover, the Department of Home Affairs (Immigration) are prioritising the processing of visa applications for travellers who are exempt from travel restrictions. This is to assist those who need urgent travel to Australia, such as returning Australian permanent residents or immediate family members of Australian citizens. You can read the full and current details on the Department’s COVID-dedicated website. As a result, we expect the processing time for Australian Working Holiday Visas to increase substantially.
I already have this visa – what can I do?
If you currently hold a 417 visa but have not yet activated it, it will be valid for 12 months from the date of grant. The visa expiry date will be explicitly stated on your visa grant letter, which you can access via your ImmiAccount.
If you cannot enter Australia before your 417 visa expires, you will have to apply for a new visa and pay the lodgement fee once more. To re-apply you must still be eligible for the 417 visa, for example still meet the age criterion and have available funds to support you.
The future of the 417 visa
Working holiday makers are an important part of Australia’s economy, filling job shortages and supporting the tourism industry. Once COVID eases and travel restrictions lift, we anticipate that Australia will once more encourage working holiday makers to return.
Read more about how COVID-19 is impacting Australian visa applications
Speak to a Licensed Migration Agent for professional visa advice
1 July Changes – A New Migration Year
NewsEvery year on 1 July, the Australian Government releases the annual Federal Budget which includes information about visa policy. This means new Skilled Occupation Lists, visa fee increases and more.
This year, because of COVID, the budget will be delayed until October 2020.
Below, we have outlined the ways in which this could affect your skilled visa application.
How does the 1 July impact me?
What can I do while I wait?
States will be inundated with applications as soon as they open, so we advise using this time to prepare the best possible application to put forward. It is preferable to be ready to apply once the States re-open their programs.
We recommend:
Should I take migration advice from Facebook groups and forums?
No. We like to remind our clients to proceed with caution when using Facebook groups and forums. Do not post copies of your documents online such as skills assessments, as you leave yourself open to fraudulent activity.
Some of the comments made on forums can create hysteria and false expectations in regard to migration law and visa processing times. Discussion amongst expats is very different to the actual Australian Migration Law. If you are uncertain then speak with an experienced Registered Migration Agent.
To summarise
It will be quiet over the next few months as Australia recovers from COVID, and determines what skills are needed to rebuild their economy.
Skilled visas will remain competitive, so if you can gain extra points from re-sitting the English test or are open to moving to different states, then you will secure your visa more quickly. States have more people apply than there are spaces. This means states generally choose applicants with the highest points and most work experience. You need to be prepared to relocate to where the work is.
It will take longer to secure your skilled visa and you may need to be more flexible about where you initially relocate. Using the services of Visa Go Australia can ensure you put forward the best application possible and remain fully updated throughout the constant changes.
Engineers Australia Competency Demonstration Report
Australia, Skilled VisaIntroducing Engineers Australia
Engineers Australia (EA) is Australia’s largest engineering body, representing around 100,000 engineers and conducting migration skills assessments for several professions.
EA assess over 30 occupations for skills assessments – popular occupations include:
Migration Skills Assessment for Engineers
Assessments are split into two primary pathways:
OR:
It is the applicant’s responsibility to identify the correct pathway for their qualifications; Engineers Australia does not provide any preassessment services. If you require assistance you can arrange a consultation with a licensed migration agent, who will identify your assessment pathway and visa options.
Completing a Competency Demonstration Report
If your qualification is not recognised under one of the accredited accords, you may still be eligible if you can provide a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR).
The CDR assessment is based primarily upon the undergraduate qualification and demonstrated graduate competencies. This consists of evidencing your skilled employment and preparing ‘career episodes’, which are an account of your engineering education and/or work experience. A vast amount of time and effort required to produce a CDR, and all the work must be original and produced by the applicant.
It is unacceptable to have another party complete a CDR on your behalf. All work submitted must be your own, and Engineers Australia have various methods to detect breaches such as plagiarism detection software and investigations. Using a company to produce your CDR jeopardises your skills assessment and chances of migrating to Australia.
We recently discovered a company promoting CDR services “100% plagiarism free” on social media, so we sent the details to Engineers Australia. Their assessment team provided the below response:
You can read more about the skills assessment for Engineers on our website here
You can calculate your skilled visa points here.
How is COVID-19 impacting Australian visa applications?
NewsCOVID-19 almost brought the world to a halt, and it has had the same effect on Australian visa applications. Australian visas are still being processed, however it is evident that the current global pandemic is having some impact.
The MIA (Migration Institute of Australia) and its members are the authority and benchmark for informed, trusted and respected migration practice and leadership. Visa Go Australia’s licensed Migration Agent Darren Chatt MARN:0211214 is a long-standing MIA member.
Last month the MIA surveyed its members on visa processing trends during COVID-19. “The purpose of collecting this data is to obtain a clearer understanding of the characteristics of application grants or refusals and permission to enter Australia requests for the information of MIA members,” the MIA said.
The number of responses MIA received was relatively low, so it is not possible to state that these results represent processing trends. However, the data is useful in providing insight during this current time.
Key findings from MIA survey:
Furthermore, these key findings are representative of what we are seeing here at Visa Go Australia; applications are being processed but at a slower rate. We have also seen more movement with onshore visa applications. Since COVID heightened in March/April we have still been receiving skilled visa grants.
Additional factors which may have slowed down progression of visas include:
If you are planning to start your Australian visa journey, then there is nothing to stop you from proceeding. Applications are open, and the sooner you join the queue, the closer you will be to having your visa. We also anticipate that once Australia’s borders open again, there will be a surge in demand for visas. COVID will cause implications in applying for your Australian visa, however with professional guidance and a lot of patience, we are confident that migration to Australia is still achievable.
Speak with a licensed Migration Agent here: https://visa-go.com/about-us/contact-us/
See if you qualify for an Australian visa here: https://visa-go.com/australia/
Northern Territory announces changes to state nomination
NewsNorthern Territory
On 5 June 2020, MigrationNT announced changes to their state nomination under the General Skilled Migration programme (Skilled visa subclasses 190 and 491).
“Changes to eligibility criteria for Northern Territory (NT) nomination under General Skilled Migration Program will take effect from 1 July 2020.
Changes to state nomination
Key changes include extra residency and employability requirements for:
View detailed information on eligibility criteria and detailed guidelines on how to apply.
For further information contact MigrationNT.” (Source: 2020 Northern Territory Government)
Australian Visa Advice
As we approach the end of the migration year – 30 June 2020 – it is common for states to introduce new criterion and temporarily close. If you require visa advice you can arrange a consultation with an experienced licensed migration agent at Visa Go Australia.
Temporary closure of Victoria’s Skilled Nominated Visa Programme for 2019-20
NewsVictoria closes Skilled Nominated Visa Programme for 2019-20
Effective immediately, Victoria’s skilled visa nomination programme is temporarily closed. This includes both the Skilled Nominated (Permanent) visa (subclass 190) and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).
This closure is a result of the state’s annual quota being filled for the 2019-20 programme year. We would expect other states to close in the coming weeks as the migration year comes to an end (30 June 2020) and places fill up.
Applications lodged before the closure
Victorian applications received prior to 28 May 2020 will continue to be assessed, and applicants will be advised of the outcome in due course. New applications will be accepted in 2020-21 (date TBC).
The Victorian Government website advises, “Victoria is facing economic and health challenges posed by coronavirus (COVID-19). To help us respond to this challenge, priority will be given to occupations in sectors critical to the coronavirus response in allocating remaining nomination places.”
See what you skilled visa options are by completing our free online assessment.
Australian Visa Medical Examinations during COVID-19
NewsAustralian Visa Medical Examinations
Most visa applicants must undergo a full medical examinations to ensure they satisfy the health criterion set out by the Australian Government. This primarily includes skilled, parent and partner visas applications. You can check if you require a health examination here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/health/who-needs-health-examinations
Medical Examinations during COVID-19
As a result of COVID-19 forcing healthcare facilities to close, applicants have been unable to complete their Australian visa medical examinations during lockdown. However, we are now seeing our clients’ appointments being rescheduled and new bookings taking place as restrictions ease in Australia and the UK.
You will visit a specified Panel Doctor to complete your Australian visa medical examination
Advice from Immigration
Immigration has advised that their visa processing officers are aware of these disruptions and will consider extended timeframes when processing your visa application. You do not need to contact Immigration if your Australian visa medical examination appointments has been rescheduled. We recommend uploading a copy of your medical appointment confirmation to your visa application via Immi Account.
Further COVID-19 information can be found on the Australian Government website here: https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/coming-australia
Arrange a consultation and speak to a Licensed Migration Agent today.