Types of Immigration Visas
Skilled Migration Visas
Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189): For those highly skilled individuals who can meet the points-based assessment criteria without employer or state/territory government sponsorship. Applicants need skills in in-demand occupations and score sufficient points based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications. It offers permanent residency and allows visa holders to work and live anywhere in Australia. For instance, a proficient software engineer with relevant experience and good English skills may be eligible if the occupation is on the skills list.
Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): Requires nomination by an Australian state or territory government. Applicants must also meet similar skills and points requirements as the subclass 189 visa. The state/territory nomination provides additional points, enhancing the chances of being invited to apply. Visa holders must live and work in the nominating state/territory. Suited for those with skills needed in a particular region and willing to contribute to its local economy.
Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491): A provisional visa for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia. It requires nomination by a state/territory government or a relative in a regional area. Applicants must meet specific skills and points criteria. After a minimum of three years in a regional area and meeting other requirements, visa holders may be eligible for permanent residency, aiming to address regional skills shortages and encourage population growth.
Family Migration Visas
Partner Visas: Include the Partner (subclass 820/801) visa and the Prospective Marriage (subclass 300) visa. For people in a genuine and continuing relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The subclass 820 is provisional, and after a while, if the relationship remains genuine, applicants can apply for the subclass 801 permanent visa. The Prospective Marriage visa allows entry to marry an Australian partner within a specific time.
Parent Visas: Such as the Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143/173) and the Non – contributory Parent visa (subclass 103) for parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents. The contributory visas require a fee but have a shorter processing time compared to the non – contributory ones. They have income and health requirements, and the waiting times can be long, enabling parents to join their children in Australia.
Child Visas: For children dependent on an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. There are different types depending on the circumstances, like the Child (subclass 101) visa for adopted children outside Australia and the Child (subclass 802) visa for children of temporary visa holders in Australia.
Humanitarian and Refugee Visas
Refugee and Humanitarian Protection visas: For people fleeing persecution, war, or other humanitarian crises and in need of protection. Based on the United Nations Refugee Convention criteria, the Australian government assesses applications and provides support to help them resettle. Includes visas like the Refugee (subclass 200) and the Humanitarian Stay (subclass 449) visa, offering a safe haven to the vulnerable.
Special Humanitarian Program: Designed for those in special circumstances like victims of domestic violence, trafficking, or abuse. It provides an opportunity for a new life and access to support services to rebuild their lives in Australia.
Business and Investment Migration Visas
Business Innovation and Investment visa (subclass 188/888)：For business owners and investors looking to establish or invest in a business in Australia. Has several streams, including the Business Innovation stream for new business starters, the Investor stream for those investing in Australian assets, and the Significant Investor stream for high-net-worth individuals. Applicants must meet business and investment requirements and may be eligible for permanent residency (subclass 888) after the provisional residency (subclass 188) if they meet the criteria.
Entrepreneur visa (subclass 188E): For entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea and support from an approved Australian venture capital firm. Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation, requiring a viable business plan and a certain English proficiency level.
Visa Application Process
Eligibility Assessment
Understanding the Requirements：Before applying, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility requirements for the specific visa category. This involves checking the skills lists for skilled migration visas, relationship criteria for family visas, humanitarian criteria for refugee and humanitarian visas, and business/investment requirements for the relevant visas. For example, for a skilled migration visa, applicants must ensure their occupation is on the approved list and can score enough points based on various factors.
Documentation Preparation
Gathering Necessary Documents：Depending on the visa type, applicants need to gather a range of documents. For skilled migration visas, this may include educational certificates, work experience proofs, English language test results. Family visas require relationship evidence like marriage certificates, shared living proofs. Humanitarian visas need documentation related to the persecution or crisis situation. Business and investment visas require business plans, financial statements, and investment details.
Application Submission
Online or Paper Application: Most applications are submitted online through the relevant immigration department’s website. However, in some cases, paper applications may be allowed. Applicants must fill in the required forms accurately and completely, providing all the necessary information and attaching the supporting documents.
Processing and Waiting
Timeframe and Updates: The processing time for visas varies depending on the type and complexity of the application. Some visas may take several months, while others can take longer, especially family and some humanitarian visas. During this time, applicants can check the status of their application online or through the provided channels. The immigration department may request additional information or conduct interviews if needed.
Visa Grant and Conditions
Receiving the Visa:If the application is successful, the visa is granted, and the applicant receives notification with the visa details and any conditions attached. For example, skilled migration visa holders may have conditions related to working in a specific occupation or region. Family visa holders may need to maintain the relationship status. Business visa holders may have requirements regarding business operations and investment.
Post-Visa Arrival and Settlement
Settling in Australia:Once in Australia, visa holders need to comply with the visa conditions and start their new life. This may involve finding accommodation, enrolling in schools for children (if applicable), looking for employment (for work visas), and integrating into the local community. There are also support services available for new immigrants to help them adjust to the Australian way of life.
Conclusion
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