How difficult is it to Emigrate to Australia?

It’s no surprise in these economically challenging times that many Britons are considering moving to pastures new. In a survey conducted by a currency company recently, 75% of those questioned were considering moving abroad and, for many, Australia is their country of choice. So how difficult is it to emigrate to Australia? And what exactly do you need to do to ensure that the process of getting there is as quick and as trouble free as possible?

A visa system is in operation in Australia for all but New Zealand citizens. You need to lodge your application with the Department of Immigration and Culture (DIAC) under one of their visa programs, and pay the applicable fee.

Australian immigration and visa regulations are amongst the most complex in the world, and they are constantly changing. Mistakes in your documentation or application may mean that your visa is either delayed or even rejected altogether. That’s why many people prefer to use a specialist emigration company; their knowledge and experience can prove invaluable, but this comes at a price. Fees can range from around £500 to £2,000.

There are a number of visa options to choose from:

Skilled Visas
With this visa applicants must be able to satisfy skill requirements. Points are granted for qualifications, work experience, employer references etc.

Working Visa
Managers, qualified professionals and skilled trades’ people are especially in demand.

Working Holiday Visa or Travel Visa
This applies if you are between 18 and 30. It permits you to travel within the country for a year and to work on a temporary basis only.

Family Visa
If you have an Australian partner or members of your immediate family are permanently based in Australia then you may qualify for one of several family visas. Under this option, potential migrants must be sponsored by a close family member living in Australia. There are 4 schemes to choose from and the sponsor must be either an Australian citizen, permanent resident or an eligible New Zealand citizen of 18 years or older.

Business and Investment Visas
If you have had a successful business career either at a senior executive level or as an owner of your own business you may qualify for this option. There are 4 schemes available under which a business applicant may apply.

Sponsored Work Visas
If you are an employee who is head-hunted or moved to your company's Australia office then this will apply.

Retirement Visas
For this visa, you’ll need to be financially secure. Retired people may also choose to work part time if they so wish, so there is a degree of built-in flexibility.

Once DIAC has assessed and processed your application, they will ask for police clearance (provided by The Association of Chief Police Officers in the UK) and medical checks for you and your family here in the UK. Then hopefully you are on your way!

Carol Dunning
http://www.emigrationguide.com