international student
immigration services
Ensure a seamless and error-free immigration journey to Australia with our expert services. Our seasoned in-house immigration managers handle visas, nominations, and compliance with Australian laws, saving you from costly missteps and time-consuming delays.
Experience a tailored, stress-free process, designed to meet your unique needs and deliver the results you seek. Choose our expertise for peace of mind and a smooth path through the complexities of immigration.
Let's get it right the first time and set you on the path to success.
Skills Assessment
Skills Assessment is an essential step in many immigration processes, professional certification applications, and employment procedures. It evaluates an individual's qualifications and professional competencies to determine their suitability for a specific occupation or professional category.
| Category | Skills Assessment |
| Purpose | To verify the skills, qualifications, and professional experience of individuals for immigration, licensing, or employment purposes |
| Typical Applicants |
- Skilled professionals seeking immigration - Individuals applying for professional licenses - Job seekers in specialized fields |
| Assessment Process |
- Application to a relevant assessing authority or body - Submission of qualifications, work experience, and other credentials - May include exams, interviews, or practical assessments |
| Types of Evidence |
- Educational certificates and transcripts - Professional training certificates - Employment references and work samples - Personal identification documents |
| Outcome |
- A report or statement outlining the assessment of skills and qualifications - May determine eligibility for visas, licenses, or job positions |
| Application Process |
- Identify the relevant assessing authority - Prepare and submit necessary documentation - Undertake any additional assessments or interviews as required |
| Important Notes |
- Specific requirements and processes vary by country, profession, and assessment authority - Accurate and complete documentation is crucial for a successful assessment - Fees and processing times vary |
Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (Subclass 186)
The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) is designed for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Australia. This visa allows individuals, nominated by an Australian employer, to live, work, and study in Australia permanently. It's structured into three streams - Temporary Residence Transition, Direct Entry, and Labour Agreement, each catering to different applicant profiles.
| Visa Name | Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) |
| Visa Type | Permanent Residency |
| Purpose | To enable skilled workers to live and work in Australia permanently, nominated by an approved Australian employer |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Nominated by an Australian employer - Under 45 years of age (exceptions apply) - Skills, qualifications, and English language requirements met - Belong to one of the three streams: Temporary Residence Transition, Direct Entry, Labour Agreement |
| Application Process |
- Employer lodges nomination - Employee applies for the visa - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on stream and individual circumstances |
| Benefits |
- Live, work, and study indefinitely in Australia - Access to Medicare - Sponsor relatives for permanent residence - Eligibility for Australian citizenship |
| Important Notes |
- Health and character requirements - Obligations for employer and employee |
Skilled Independent Visa
(Subclass 189)
The Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) is a permanent residence visa for skilled workers who are not sponsored by an employer, a state or territory, or a family member. This visa allows individuals to live and work anywhere in Australia and is granted based on the applicant's skills, qualifications, and points test result.
| Visa Name | Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) |
| Visa Type | Permanent Residence Visa |
| Purpose | To enable skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia without sponsorship |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Invited to apply based on points test - Under 45 years of age at time of invitation - Occupation listed on relevant skilled occupation list - Competent English |
| Application Process |
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and be invited to apply - Apply for the visa - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on application volume and individual circumstances |
| Benefits |
- Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely - Access to Medicare - Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence - Eligibility for Australian citizenship |
| Important Notes |
- Health and character requirements - Points test involves factors like age, work experience, and language proficiency |
Skilled Nominated Visa
(Subclass 190)
The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory. This visa allows individuals to live and work in Australia as permanent residents, provided they have the skills and qualifications needed in the nominating state or territory.
| Visa Name | Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) |
| Visa Type | Permanent Residence Visa |
| Purpose | To enable skilled workers to live and work in Australia as permanent residents, with state or territory nomination |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Nominated by an Australian state or territory - Under 45 years of age at time of invitation - Occupation listed on relevant skilled occupation list - Competent English - Meet the points score on the points test |
| Application Process |
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive a state or territory nomination - Apply for the visa - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on application volume and individual circumstances |
| Benefits |
- Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely - Access to Medicare - Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence - Eligibility for Australian citizenship |
| Important Notes |
- Health and character requirements - Obligations to live in the nominating state or territory for a set period |
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), commonly known as the TSS Visa, is designed for skilled workers to fill labor shortages in Australia. This visa allows eligible workers to be employed in their nominated occupation for their approved sponsor for up to four years.
| Visa Name | Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) |
| Visa Type | Temporary Work Visa |
| Purpose | To address labor shortages by enabling skilled workers to work in their nominated occupation in Australia |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Nominated for a skilled position by an approved sponsor - Meet skills, qualifications, and English language requirements - Short-term and Medium-term stream available |
| Application Process |
- Sponsor lodges nomination - Applicant applies for the visa - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on individual circumstances and application stream |
| Benefits |
- Work in Australia for up to four years - Bring family members to work or study - Travel in and out of Australia while the visa is valid |
| Important Notes |
- Health and character requirements - Compliance with visa conditions and work limitations |
Temporary Graduate Visa
(Subclass 485)
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. This visa has two streams: the Graduate Work stream and the Post-Study Work stream, each with different eligibility criteria.
| Visa Name | Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) |
| Visa Type | Temporary Visa |
| Purpose | To provide recent graduates of Australian institutions with the opportunity to gain work experience in Australia |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Recent graduate from an Australian institution - Meet qualification and English language requirements - Two streams: Graduate Work (18 months) and Post-Study Work (varies from 2 to 4 years, depending on qualification) |
| Application Process |
- Apply for the visa after completing an eligible qualification - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on application volume and individual circumstances |
| Benefits |
- Live, work, and study in Australia temporarily - Include family members in the application - Travel to and from Australia |
| Important Notes |
- Visa fees and processing costs - Health and character requirements - Specific work rights and conditions based on the stream |
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) is designed for skilled workers who want to live and work in regional Australia. This visa is for individuals nominated by an Australian state or territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
| Visa Name | Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491) |
| Visa Type | Provisional Residence Visa |
| Purpose | To enable skilled workers to live and work in regional Australia |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Nominated by a state or territory government or sponsored by a family member in regional Australia - Under 45 years of age - Meet skill, qualification, and English language requirements - Score sufficiently high in the points test |
| Application Process |
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and be nominated or sponsored - Apply for the visa - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on application volume and individual circumstances |
| Benefits |
- Live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia - Pathway to permanent residency - Bring family members |
| Important Notes |
- Health and character requirements - Compliance with visa conditions including living in regional area |
Partner Visa
Partner Visas allow the spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia. These visas typically involve a two-stage process, starting with a temporary visa leading to a permanent visa.
| Visa Category | Partner Visa |
| Visa Types |
- Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 820, onshore) - Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 801, onshore) - Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300, offshore) - Temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309, offshore) - Permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100, offshore) |
| Purpose | To unite Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens with their overseas partners |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- In a genuine and ongoing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen - Meet health and character requirements - Additional requirements for marriage and de facto relationships |
| Application Process |
- Apply for the temporary visa and subsequently for the permanent visa - Sponsorship by the Australian partner - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on visa type, application volume, and individual circumstances |
| Benefits |
- Live, work, and study in Australia - Include dependent children in the application - Access to Medicare (for certain subclasses) - Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship |
| Important Notes |
- Various visa fees and processing costs - Evidence of a genuine and continuing relationship is crucial - Long processing times for some subclasses |
Parent Visa
Parent Visas allow parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to join their children in Australia. These visas are available in both temporary and permanent options, with varying eligibility requirements, costs, and processing times.
| Visa Category | Parent Visa |
| Visa Types | Includes several subclasses, both temporary and permanent |
| Purpose | To reunite parents with their children living in Australia |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Child must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen - Balance-of-family test (majority of children must reside in Australia or more children live in Australia than in any other single country) - Meet health and character requirements |
| Application Process |
- Apply for the appropriate subclass - Sponsorship by child in Australia - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies significantly based on visa subclass and application volume |
| Benefits |
- Live in Australia with children - Access to Medicare (for permanent visa holders) - Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship (for certain subclasses) |
| Important Notes |
- Various visa subclasses with different fees and requirements - Long processing times for some subclasses - Assurance of Support may be required |
Family Members Visa
Family Members Visas enable various relatives of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to join their family members in Australia. These visas cater to different family members, including partners, children, parents, and other relatives, with both temporary and permanent options.
| Visa Category | Family Members Visa |
| Visa Types |
- Partner Visas (including spouse, de facto partners, and prospective marriage visas) - Parent Visas - Child Visas - Other Family Visas (including aged dependent relatives, remaining relatives, and carers) |
| Purpose | To unite family members with their relatives living in Australia |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen - Meet health and character requirements - Additional criteria vary by specific visa type |
| Application Process |
- Apply for the specific family visa subclass - Sponsorship by an eligible family member in Australia - Decision by Australian immigration authorities |
| Processing Time | Varies based on visa type, application volume, and individual circumstances |
| Benefits |
- Live, work, and study in Australia (specific rights vary by visa type) - Include family members in the application - Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship (for certain subclasses) |
| Important Notes |
- Various visa fees and processing costs - Evidence supporting the family relationship - Long processing times for some subclasses - Quotas and caps for certain visa types |
Sponsorship
Sponsorship plays a vital role in various visa applications, enabling individuals or organizations to support the visa application of an overseas national. Sponsors must meet specific requirements and undertake certain responsibilities to ensure compliance with immigration laws.
| Category | Sponsorship |
| Purpose | To support visa applications by ensuring applicants have the necessary backing, whether for employment, family reunification, or education |
| Types of Sponsorship |
- Employer Sponsorship for work visas - Family Sponsorship for partner, child, and other family visas - Education Sponsorship for student visas |
| Responsibilities of Sponsors |
- Ensure the visa applicant meets the visa requirements - Provide necessary support, such as employment or accommodation - Notify authorities of any changes affecting the sponsorship - Meet financial obligations, if applicable |
| Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors |
- Meet specific legal and financial requirements - For employers, demonstrate genuine need for overseas workers - For family, prove the relationship and ability to support the visa applicant |
| Application Process |
- Apply to be a sponsor (if required by the visa type) - Provide necessary documentation and information - Approval by immigration authorities |
| Obligations |
- Ensure compliance with immigration laws and visa conditions - Maintain records and provide information to authorities when requested - Support the visa holder as per the sponsorship agreement |
| Important Notes |
- Legal and financial penalties for failing to meet sponsorship obligations - Duration of sponsorship responsibilities varies by visa type - Specific requirements and processes depend on the country and visa category |
Sponsorship Transfer
Sponsorship Transfer is a process where a visa holder under a specific work visa category, such as the TSS visa in Australia, changes their employer or sponsor without changing the visa itself. This process is crucial for ensuring that the visa remains valid under the new employment or sponsorship arrangement.
| Category | Sponsorship Transfer |
| Purpose | To allow visa holders to change their employer or sponsor while on the same visa type |
| Eligibility |
- Visa holder currently under a sponsored work visa category - New employer or sponsor must be eligible to sponsor under the same visa program |
| Process for Visa Holders |
- Notify the current employer and the immigration authorities about the change - Ensure the new employer lodges a sponsorship/nomination transfer with the immigration authorities - May require submitting an updated visa application in some cases |
| Process for New Sponsors |
- Apply to be an approved sponsor (if not already) - Nominate the visa holder for the specific position - Provide necessary documentation and information to immigration authorities |
| Considerations |
- Ensure minimal gaps between ending one employment and starting another - Compliance with all visa conditions during the transfer process - Understanding any changes in roles or responsibilities that might affect visa status |
| Important Notes |
- Processing times and requirements can vary - Legal and financial responsibilities for the new sponsor - Visa holders should not commence new employment until the transfer is approved |
Visa Appeals
Visa Appeals are a critical aspect of the immigration process in Australia, allowing applicants to contest a visa refusal or cancellation. The appeal process is handled by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), which reviews decisions made by the Department of Home Affairs.
| Category | Visa Appeals |
| Purpose | To provide a mechanism for individuals to challenge visa refusals or cancellations by the Department of Home Affairs |
| Eligibility for Appeal |
- Decision to refuse or cancel a visa must be appealable - Applicant must be the visa holder or sponsor in some cases |
| Appeal Process |
- Apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) within a specified timeframe - Pay the application fee - AAT reviews the decision and provides a new determination |
| Processing Time | Varies based on the complexity of the case and AAT workload |
| Possible Outcomes |
- AAT affirms the original decision - AAT sets aside the original decision and substitutes a new decision - AAT remits the matter to the Department of Home Affairs for reconsideration with specific directions |
| Important Notes |
- Legal advice is often recommended - Time limits for lodging an appeal are strict and vary by case - Not all visa decisions are eligible for appeal |
Visa Refusals
Visa Refusals in the context of Australian immigration occur when an application does not meet the set criteria outlined by the Department of Home Affairs. Understanding the common reasons for refusal and the available options afterwards is crucial for applicants.
| Category | Visa Refusals |
| Common Reasons for Refusal |
- Incomplete application or lack of supporting documents - Failure to meet health or character requirements - Failure to meet the specific criteria of the visa subclass (like financial stability, skills assessment) - Issues with authenticity of information or documents provided |
| Immediate Actions Required |
- Review the refusal letter for specific reasons and advice - Assess the possibility of rectifying the issues for a new application - Consider lodging an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), if eligible |
| Appeal Process |
- Determine if the decision is reviewable by AAT - Lodge an appeal within the specified timeframe - Prepare for the review process with possible additional evidence or clarification |
| Reapplication Considerations |
- Address the reasons for refusal in the new application - Ensure all documentation and information are complete and accurate - Seek professional advice if necessary |
| Important Notes |
- Timely response to a refusal is crucial - Not all refusals are eligible for appeal - Professional advice can be beneficial in navigating the process |
Visa Cancellations
Visa Cancellations in Australian immigration can occur for various reasons, often related to non-compliance with visa conditions or changes in circumstances. It's important for visa holders to understand the reasons for visa cancellations and the options available in case their visa is cancelled.
| Category | Visa Cancellations |
| Common Reasons for Cancellation |
- Non-compliance with visa conditions - Provision of false or misleading information - Changes in circumstances that affect eligibility - Character issues, including criminal offenses |
| Immediate Actions Required |
- Review the cancellation notice for specific reasons - Assess the possibility of resolving the issues or challenging the decision - Consider legal advice or contacting a migration agent |
| Appeal Process |
- Determine if the cancellation decision is reviewable by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) - If eligible, lodge an appeal within the specified timeframe - Prepare for the review process, potentially with new evidence or clarifications |
| Reapplication Considerations |
- Understand the impact of the cancellation on future visa applications - Address the reasons for cancellation in any future application - Ensure compliance with all Australian immigration laws and regulations |
| Important Notes |
- Timely response to a cancellation is crucial - Not all cancellations are eligible for appeal - Legal advice can be critical in navigating the process |
Changing Visas
Changing Visas involves applying for a different type of visa while you are already in Australia. This process is common for individuals whose circumstances have changed or who now meet the criteria for a different visa category. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and potential impacts on your current visa status is crucial.
| Category | Changing Visas |
| Purpose | To apply for a different type of visa based on new circumstances or eligibility while in Australia |
| Eligibility Criteria |
- Must meet the criteria for the new visa type - Abide by the conditions of the current visa, including any 'No further stay' conditions |
| Application Process |
- Research and ensure eligibility for the new visa type - Prepare necessary documents and evidence - Apply for the new visa before the current visa expires - Follow instructions from the Department of Home Affairs for the application process |
| Processing Time | Varies based on the new visa type and individual circumstances |
| Important Considerations |
- Understand the conditions and rights associated with the new visa type - Be aware of the impact on your current visa status during the application process - Potential for bridging visa to maintain lawful status while the new visa is processed |
| Potential Outcomes |
- Approval of the new visa - Denial of the new visa application with potential implications for current visa status |
| Important Notes |
- Seek professional advice if unsure about the process or eligibility - Consider the timing of the application to avoid gaps in lawful status - Be aware of the conditions that might restrict visa changes, like 'No further stay' |
Compliance and Monitoring
Compliance and Monitoring are crucial aspects of the visa and immigration process. They involve adhering to the conditions of the visa and ensuring that all requirements are continuously met. This is essential for both visa holders and sponsors to avoid potential legal issues or visa cancellations.
| Category | Compliance and Monitoring |
| Purpose | To ensure visa holders and sponsors adhere to the conditions and legal requirements of the respective visas |
| Responsibilities of Visa Holders |
- Abide by all conditions of the visa, such as work limitations, study requirements, and residency stipulations - Update immigration authorities about any significant changes, like address, passport, or marital status - Maintain legal status, including applying for visa extensions or renewals as needed |
| Responsibilities of Sponsors |
- Ensure compliance with sponsorship obligations, like providing correct and legal employment conditions - Notify authorities of any changes affecting sponsorship, such as changes in employment status or business closure - Maintain records and provide information to immigration authorities when requested |
| Monitoring Process |
- Regular checks and audits by immigration authorities - Reporting systems for changes in circumstances - Investigations into potential non-compliance |
| Consequences of Non-Compliance |
- Visa cancellation - Legal penalties or fines - Future visa applications being impacted - For sponsors, potential barring from future sponsorship and legal penalties |
| Important Notes |
- Always stay informed of the conditions attached to your visa - Consult with immigration experts or legal advisors in case of uncertainty - Prompt response to any inquiries or requirements from immigration authorities |
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT IMMIGRATION SERVICES
Ensure a seamless and error-free immigration journey to Australia with our expert services. Our seasoned in-house immigration managers handle visas, nominations, and compliance with Australian laws, saving you from costly missteps and time-consuming delays.
Experience a tailored, stress-free process, designed to meet your unique needs and deliver the results you seek. Choose our expertise for peace of mind and a smooth path through the complexities of immigration.
Let’s get it right the first time and set you on the path to success.
the primary source of delays in visa processing are incomplete or incorrect applications
Our seasoned in-house immigration managers handle visas, nominations, and compliance with Australian laws, saving our clients from costly missteps and time-consuming delays. Experience a tailored, stress-free process, designed to create a faster immigration process.
Tailored Migration Consultation
Navigating the complexities of Australian immigration can be challenging, but with the right consultation, it becomes a journey of opportunity.
Our in-house immigration managers provide tailored advice, ensuring you understand the diverse visa options and processes.
