FAQ for migrating to Australia

What is the General Skilled Migration Visa?

What are applicants awarded points for?

Applicants are awarded points for:

* Skill
* Age
* English language ability
* Specific work experience
* Occupation in demand (and job offer)
* Australian qualifications
* Study and residence in regional Australia/low population growth metropolitan areas
* Spouse skills
* Relationship (for Skilled-Australian sponsored visa applicants only)
* State/territory sponsorship (for Skilled – Independent Regional visa applicants only)

Applicants may also receive bonus points for one of the following:

* Capital investment in Australia or
* Australian work experience or
* Fluency in one of Australia’s community languages (other than English)

Applications which achieve a score below the passmark (but above another mark, known as the pool mark) will be held in reserve for up to 2 years after it is assessed. If the passmark is lowered during this period and the applicant’s score is at, or above, the new passmark, the application will proceed. If it is not, then the application will be refused.

What are applicants awarded points for?

You will be expected to continue in the career path that you have chosen when you migrate to Australia.

Am I guaranteed General Skilled Migration if I pass the self assessment test?

No.

What are the age restrictions on General Skilled Migration Visa?

You must be under 45 years of age when you apply

Are there nationality restrictions?

No.

What documents do I need enclosed to my General Skilled Application?

We have a checklist.

How long will it take?

If your nominated occupation is in the MODL list the application will take up to 4 months, with all documentation supplied.
If your nominated occupation in listed in the SOL list, the application will take 6-11 months.with all documentation supplied.

Who is considered a dependant (member of the family unit)?

A dependant is a member of the family unit of the visa applicant. This may include the spouse/ partner of the applicant, any dependent children (under 18 years of age) or some other dependent relative.

How much does it cost?

Application fee currently is $2060 (for all sets of fees please check the charges spreadsheet)

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?

Once your application has been successfully submitted, you will not be able to receive a refund of the application charge.

Can I bring my parents to Australia?

Once you are a legal resident of Australia you will be entitled to bring your parents to Australia permanently.

When should I do my medicals?

You should wait until the IMMI requests them. Medicals have a short life span so best to leave them until last. The same applies for police checks.

Can I bring a parent on my skilled visa?

You may include other relatives in your application if they are wholly or substantially reliant on you for financial support for their basic needs of food, shelter & clothing and they have been reliant on you for that support for a substantial period. They must also be more reliant on you than on any other person or source. A relative may be considered a dependent on you if they have a mental or physical disability that prevents them from earning a living to support themselves.e.g aged unmarried relative.