News Archives - Page 6 of 9 - Visa Go Australia

Can I apply for an Australian Working Holiday Visa during COVID?

The 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:

Must be 18 to 30 years old (inclusive) – except for Canadian, French and Irish citizens up to 35 (inclusive)
You must have a passport from an eligible country or jurisdiction
Must not be accompanied by dependent children

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.

Speak to a Licensed Migration Agent for professional visa advice

July 6, 2020

1 July Changes – A New Migration Year

News

Every 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?

States delay re-opening – The Federal budget includes visa quotas, which simply states how many visas will be issued for the migration year. Without this number, States cannot begin to offer sponsorship invitations under the 190 and 491 visa programs. State nominations will remain temporarily closed until the Government allocates visa quotas for the 2020-21 migration year.Therefore, we expect states to re-open around October time, meaning invitations to apply will be delayed. We cannot advise your state sponsorship options until the states reopen and publish their new occupation lists.
Visa fee increase – The budget details the new visa application charges (due on visa lodgement). Generally, the fee increase is in line with inflation and is therefore minimal. Once these costs have been published you can view them on the Government website. A minor increase to the surcharge on credit card and PayPal payments has already come into effect.

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:

Completing your skills assessment
Completing your English test (as soon as centres re-open)
Continue working in your nominated occupation (unless furloughed)
Collecting the required documents for EOI lodgement
Ensuring you have the funds available for your State nomination application
Research each state and take notes of what lifestyle and jobs each state offers

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.

We have seen recent 1 July comments stating that Australia’s skilled visa program is closed indefinitely. We would like to reassure you that the program has been closed temporarily by the Australian Government, to allow time to restructure the Skilled Occupations List, visa fees and quota for skilled migration.

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.

July 2, 2020

How is COVID-19 impacting Australian visa applications?

News

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/

June 10, 2020

Photo by Fidel Fernando on Unsplash

Northern Territory announces changes to state nomination

News

Northern 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:

NT international student graduates who wish to apply for a subclass 190 nomination
other NT residents who wish to apply for an NT nomination.

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.

June 8, 2020

Photo by Weyne Yew on Unsplash

Temporary closure of Victoria’s Skilled Nominated Visa Programme for 2019-20

News

Victoria 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.

May 28, 2020

Australian Visa Medical Examinations during COVID-19

News

Australian 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.

May 28, 2020

Protecting Australia’s construction industry during COVID-19

News

COVID and Construction

In response to COVID-19 threatening Australia’s economy, State Governments are working to protect the construction industry, recognising its vital role in Australia’s workforce. In offering stimulus packages, bringing forward projects and minimising tender costs, Australia is aiming to support and save local jobs. Furthermore, this work will provide Australia with much needed upgrades and developments across all states.

Australia’s Construction Industry

Diane Boyce from Hays Globalink is a construction recruitment specialist, and she provides some insight into the current Australian market;

“The NSW government plans to kick start the economy with a A$7.5B Project list in the wake of COVID-19, and the first tranche of “shovel-ready” projects will be confirmed within weeks, planning Minister Rob Stokes has said. Victoria has also fast-tracked approvals for a number of projects worth about $1.5B after establishing a planning task force in response to the crisis.”

Victoria

In Victoria, the plans to build Australia’s tallest tower have been approved for development, commencing in 2021. The ‘Green Spine’ building in Melbourne will have two twisting towers, with the tallest to hit 365m and the other reaching 253m. Moreover, the project is expected to create 4,700 construction jobs and provide $1 billion additional investment for Melbourne’s building industry. This tower is projected to take five years to complete. Two other substantial developments in Melbourne’s CBD and Flemington have also been approved, while Victorian premier Daniel Andrews presented this month a $2.7 billion construction stimulus.

Queensland

In Queensland, a development application has been lodged with Brisbane City Council to construct a proposed $450 million in upgrading Toowong Town Centre. Moreover, the Queensland Government plans to spend $100M to fast-track water pipeline construction.

South Australia

Meanwhile, South Australia is fast-tracking $120M of construction projects. The SA Government has announced a $12.9 billion infrastructure pipeline over a four year period, the largest in the state’s history. This money will be spent on key road and infrastructure projects, to deliver schools, hospitals and affordable housing to South Australia.

New South Wales

The New South Wales Government has announced a $396 million economic stimulus package to safeguard councils, jobs, local services and infrastructure. A project in Auburn worth $269 million has recently been approved and is set to create more than 700 construction jobs.

Sydney Landscape

Western Australia

In Western Australia, Main Roads WA is also fast-tracking the tendering process for several large-scale road projects worth $2.37 billion and estimated to create 13,000 jobs. Additionally, Perth’s $4.1 billion rail programme Metronet will deliver 72km of new passenger rail and up to 18 new stations, generating thousands of jobs.

The Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is preparing to build the largest ship lift in Northern Australia, cementing Darwin as a major marine services industry hub and creating hundreds of jobs. Construction will begin in 2021. Meanwhile, at Charles Darwin University, construction of a new campus is anticipated to bring hundreds of new staff and thousands of students into the Darwin CBD, whilst also creating a significant number of construction jobs.

The Future of Construction across Australia

As COVID-19 continues to impact global movement, it is positive to see the constructions industry maintaining momentum, providing local jobs and strengthening Australia’s economy. If you are contemplating taking your career to Australia, you should consider assessing your visa eligibility and discussing your employability with Hays Globalink.

Read more about Taking your career to Australia.

See if you are eligible for an Australian Skilled visa.

May 20, 2020

A happy man plays on the beach with his dogs

Lead a more satisfying life in Australia

News

Research into life in Australia

Australians are more satisfied with their lives according to the Better Life Index.

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Better Life Index suggests that, based on the OECD average, more Australians are content with their current lives.

The Better Life Index is an interactive web-based tool that measures and compares the well-being of people in OECD countries. The Index captures 11 aspects of life, including housing, income, jobs and quality of lifestyle (through community, education, health, life satisfaction, safety and work-life balance and so on).

Lead a happier life in Australia

Happiness or subjective well-being can be measured through life satisfaction, the presence of positive experiences and feelings, and the absence of negative experiences and feelings. Such measures, while subjective, are a useful tool when comparing the quality of life across countries.

When asked to rate general satisfaction with life on a scale from 0 to 10, Australians gave a 7.3 with little difference between men and women. This is higher than the OECD average of 6.5. Life satisfaction measures focused on how people evaluate their life as a whole.

The Better Life Index is updated every year and allows individuals to create their own ‘index’ to compare life in different countries.

How does your home country compare?

To see the full report on Australia and see it compare your own country, please visit the OECD Better Life Index

Interested in starting a new life in Australia? Find out your visa options by completing our free assessment.

May 7, 2020

Taking your career to Australia in 2020

Australia, News

Transitioning your Job to Australia

As COVID-19 continues to impact global movement, preparing for your move to Australia can feel a bit daunting. So, together with Hays Globalink, we bring you some practical tips on how to transition your career to Australia and move forward with your relocation plans.

Upskill with Hays Thrive

Hays Thrive is a new online training platform and available completely free to all organisations. These engaging online courses and training sessions comprise of videos, quizzes and assessments. Find ways in which to prioritise your wellbeing, practice remote professional excellence and learn vital health and safety tips around COVID-19.

Not only are these courses perfect for honing your home-working practice, the skills you learn will help you prepare for future jobs and increase your working skillset.

Speak to a Specialist Recruiter

Hays Globalink is a dedicated team of Recruitment Specialists who are available to support you with your career transition to Australia. Based in London, they can assist professionals who have experience in the following sectors:

Accountancy & Finance
Construction & Property
Engineering
Human Resources
Information Technology
Marketing & Digital
Office Support

Hays Globalink can help you better understand the Australian job market, providing advice on salary expectations and market guidelines. Depending on the demand in your field, Hays Globalink can arrange Sykpe interviews with employers prior to your arrival in Australia.

Making the time to contact Hays Globalink is a positive step towards your Australian job search, before you have even left the UK!

Utilise your LinkedIn Profile

Joining an Australian career forum on LinkedIn can put you in contact with employers and give you a general idea of the roles available. We recommend joining Hays Careers Forum – Moving to Australia, a LinkedIn group which provides the latest market insights, job information and advice for professionals looking to move to Australia.

We spoke to Diane Boyce from Hays Globalink about how they can assist candidates with opportunities in Australia. “Many employers remain active with speculative recruitment, working with us to proactively source the best talent for when the borders open up. Use this time to update your CV and Linked in profile, upskill on remote interviewing techniques and of course enjoy researching your chosen location in Australia.”

Prepare to Migrate

While migration plans may feel temporarily on hold, we hope we have inspired you to keep forging ahead towards your new life in Australia. Using a licensed migration agent to process your visa, and a specialist recruitment team to assist with your job search, you can be confident of staying fully informed throughout your relocation journey.

April 30, 2020

SkillSelect Invitation Round April 2020 UPDATE

News

Each month the invitation round results are published on SkillSelect. This is a good indication of determining if you have enough points to secure a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) visa, and how long it may take you to secure an invitation. Invitations are not guaranteed and your EOI will expire after 2 years.

The latest invitation round – 11 April 2020 – saw 100 invitations issued.

Visa subclass	Number of invitations issued
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)	50
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family Sponsored	50

The minimum points score for a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) was 95. The latest date of effect was 25/03/2020. This means applicants needed 95+ points to secure an invitation, and those who had the minimum 95 points waited less than one month to secure an invitation. This is an increase of 5 points from the previous March invitation round, meaning the threshold to secure an invitation has become more competitive.

The minimum points score for a Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491) – Family Sponsored was 95. The latest date of effect was 10/04/2020. This means applicants needed 95+ points to secure an invitation, and those who had the minimum 95 points waited just weeks to secure an invitation. This is an increase of 10 points from the previous March invitation round, meaning the threshold to secure an invitation has become more competitive.

The above minimum points scores do not apply to pro-rata occupations. Due to high levels of demand, certain occupations are subject to pro-rata arrangements to ensure invitations are available throughout the year. This includes various occupations in Finance, Engineering and ICT. You can check if this applies to you by visiting SkillSelect. The minimum points score and date of effect for pro-rata occupations are also listed on SkillSelect.

Visa Go Australia’s Migration Agent Darren Chatt explains that, “With less invitations being issued, there are limited spaces available to applicants, and this causes the minimum points score to increase. This is typical as we come to the end of the Australian migration year (30 June 2020), and we would expect this to change around August/September 2020.”

You can calculate your skilled visa points score by completing our free online assessment.

April 21, 2020