COVID-19 concessions to assist prospective Skilled Regional (subclass 887) visa applicants
Subclass 887 visa applicants usually have to lodge their applications in Australia. Immigration regulations also stipulate that the applicant has to be in Australia when the residency is granted.
Due to COVID-19, many visa holders are stuck overseas at the moment.
Australia has thus decided to make temporary concessions to enable some applicants to apply and get their Subclass 887 visa from outside of the country. These changes come into effect on 19 September 2020.
You must meet work and residence criteria to be eligible
As explained above, you’ll now be able to apply for your Subclass 887 visa even if you’re outside of Australia. This is subject to you meeting certain requirements. Specifically, work and residence criteria. You’ll have to be able to provide evidence of at least:
- 9 months full-time work in a specific regional area (or, if a shorter period is specified in a legislative document, that shorter period), an
- 18 months residence in a specified regional area (or, if a shorter period is specified in a legislative document, that shorter period).
These time frames are usually slightly longer at 1 year and 2 years respectively, so the shorter time frames is a further concession to applicants from outside Australia.
Australia has made similar concessions for onshore applicants. You can view these concessions on the website of the Department of Home Affairs.
This is for visa applications lodged on or after 19 September 2020
The concession comes into effect 19 September and thus apply to visa applications lodged on or after this date. It is also only applicable to applications lodged during the COVID-19 concession period.
This concession period came into effect on 1 February 2020 and is ongoing until further notice due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Contact us if you need assistance with your Subclass 887 visa application
The emigration landscape is constantly changing due to COVID-19, so we urge you to work with an immigration advisor who’s up to date on all the latest developments.
You’re welcome to contact us for assistance should you need it! You can reach us at +21 (0) 21 424 2460 or via email at info@intergate-emigration.com. Our advisors are all MARA licensed which means you can rest assured that you’re getting the right advice!
- Published in News, Our latest posts, Working in Australia
Australia is opening its borders to some skilled migrants
UPDATE: On 11 May 2021, Australia added Veterinarian (234711) to the PMSOL, and 25 other occupations were added in June and July.
Acting Minister of Immigration Alan Tudge and Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business Michealia Cash released a joint statement on 2 September 2020 detailing Australia’s plans to support businesses to fill critical skills needs. The aim is to help create jobs in Australia and to rebuild the Australian economy.
New Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List to guide Australia’s efforts
Australia has developed a new priority skills list with 17 occupations called the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL).
This list is going to allow small numbers of sponsored skilled workers into Australia to fill urgent skills needs in critical sectors.
Minister Tudge advised that the occupations on the list are based on advice from the National Skills Commission and consultation with relevant Commonwealth agencies.
As to the reason behind the creation of the list, Minister Tudge said “Our priority is getting Australians back into work but we also need key health workers to help fight the virus and skilled migrants who are going to be job multipliers, to help the economy recover.”
The occupations on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List
The PMSOL includes occupations in the healthcare, construction and IT sectors and applies to subclass 482, 494, 186 and 187 visas.
Existing skilled migration occupation lists will remain active and visas will still be processed, but priority will be given to those in occupations on the PMSOL.
The 17 occupations are:
- Chief Executive or Managing Director (111111)
- Construction Project Manager (133111)
- Mechanical Engineer (233512)
- General Practitioner (253111)
- Resident Medical Officer (253112)
- Psychiatrist (253411)
- Medical Practitioner nec (253999)
- Midwife (254111)
- Registered Nurses:
- Aged Care (254412)
- Critical Care and Emergency (254415)
- Medical (254418)
- Mental Health (254422)
- Perioperative (254423)
- Registered Nurses nec (254499)
- Developer Programmer (261312)
- Software Engineer (261313)
- Maintenance Planner (312911)
PMSOL complemented by strengthened labour market testing requirements
Minister Cash said that her Department would complement the PMSOL with strengthened labour market testing requirements:
“In addition to the current requirements of two national advertisements, employers must also advertise their vacancy on the Government’s JobActive website. JobKeeper is keeping many Australians in work and our $1 billion JobTrainer fund will create 340,700 new training places, but some sectors still need more skilled workers now.
The [17] occupations were chosen after careful analysis of recent changes to the internet vacancy index, changes in employment, and longer-term stability in the labour market for individual occupations.
As COVID-19 continues to play out both at home and abroad, we will closely monitor labour market trends and respond to any changes in our skills needs.”
How do eligible skilled migrants go to Australia?
Visa holders with sponsorship from an Australian business in a PMSOL occupation can request an exemption from Australia’s travel restrictions from the Department of Home Affairs.
Successful applicants will be subject to a strict 14-day quarantine on arrival in Australia. This quarantine will be at the expense of the visa holder.
The information about how to apply for a travel exemption can be found on the website of the Department of Home Affairs – click here to visit the relevant page.
- Published in News, Our latest posts
Can I take my pet to Australia?
If a dog or cat is part of your family, and you’re considering emigration to Australia, you’re probably wondering, ‘can I take my pet to Australia’? We’re here to tell you the answer is ‘yes’ – but only if you’re from an approved country, and it’s not a cheap or simple process.
Chances are though that you can’t bear the thought of leaving your pet behind. That’s why we’re sharing the most important facts about taking your pets to Australia:
- Approved countries.
- The cost.
- Quarantine requirements.
- Requirements around microchips, vaccinations, etc.
- What happens to old animals or animals with medical conditions.
Let’s start by finding out if you can take your pet to Australia.
Which countries have approval to import pets to Australia?
Australia has approved 96 countries from around the world for pet imports. These countries all have adequate animal health services and a satisfactory animal health status.
Further to this, the 96 countries are divided into three groups:
Group 1:
New Zealand, Norfolk Island and Cocos Island are in group 1. Dogs and cats from New Zealand and Norfolk Island do not need an import permit. Dogs from Cocos Island also do not require an import permit but cats do need a permit to enter Australia.
Group 2:
Group 2 countries are describe as approved rabies-free countries and territories. There are 26 countries in this group and animals from these countries require an import permit to enter Australia.
Group 3:
Group 3 countries, which totals 67 countries, are described as approved countries and territories in which rabies is absent or well-controlled. Just like Group 2, animals from this group need an import permit to enter Australia.
It’s not all dogs and cats that can be imported
Australia prohibits the import of some pure bred dogs, as well as domestic and non domestic hybrid cat breeds. These include but are not limited to:
- Domestic/Non-domestic hybrid cats: Savannah cats, Safari cats, Chausies, and Bengal cats
- Pure-bred dogs: Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, American pit bull terrier or pit bull terrier, and Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario
- Domestic/Non-domestic hybrid dogs: Czechoslovakian wolfdog (Czechoslovakian Vlcak), Saarloos wolfdog, Lupo Italiano (Italian wolfdog), and Kunming wolfdog.
How much does it cost to import a cat or dog to Australia?
When importing your pet to Australia, you have to pay:
- Cat and dog import permit application fees.
- Government animal quarantine station fees.
Together, it will bring the cost of importing one cat or dog that undergoes the minimum quarantine to AU$2200.
Additional fees will also apply if your cat or dog needs extra services such as treatments, veterinary care or an extended quarantine stay.
To get an accurate costing it’s best to get a quote from a reputable pet importer. You can speak to our team to get the details of our preferred pet importer.
How long does my pet have to stay in quarantine?
All cats and dogs must stay in quarantine for at least 10 days. This has to be at the Mickleham post in Melbourne, which meanss your animal must enter Australia at Melbourne International Airport.
Stays will be longer if issues arise that increase the biosecurity risk, for example when a tick is found on your dog.
What else must I have?
To take your pet to Australia, you’ll need the import permit you’ve paid for plus the following:
- Pet microchip: Your pet must have a microchip which was scanned by a vet.
- Vaccinations: Your pet must have had a rabies vaccination within one year of entry into Australia. It is recommended, but not required, that your dog or cat get other common vaccinations too. The type of vaccination will depend on whether you’re emigrating from a Group 1, 2 or 3 country.
- Treatments and blood tests: Additional treatments and blood tests are required before departure. Again, this will depend on the group of country you fall under.
What if my pet is old or has a medical condition?
The good news is that there aren’t any age restrictions on animals. But if you’re concerned about the effect of a long flight and quarantine time on an older animal, please speak to your vet. You vet will be able to advise on any extra precautions you should take.
As for pets with medical conditions, these animals can be imported but they must still be able to meet all Australian import conditions. Please note that medical conditions must be mentioned in the import permit and if your pet is diagnosed after the permit has been granted, you must inform the Australian authorities.
Visit the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources for more
Like we said, importing a pet to Australia is not a simple process. The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has a full list of FAQs on their site, so bookmark it and visit it when the time comes to start your emigration.
Please also remember to speak to us if you’d like to get the details of our preferred pet importer. This company has more than 40 years of experience in pet transport to destinations all across the world. You can rest assured that your furry friend will be in good hands!
If you’d like information on how to move your personal belongings to Australia, we recommend reading this blog post.
- Published in Our latest posts, Your family and Australia
Moving household items to Australia: Your complete guide
It’s one thing to move house. It’s a different thing altogether to move house across continents! That’s why we wanted to give you a complete guide to moving household items to Australia.
In our guide, you’ll find information on:
- Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPEs)
- Fees and charges
- Duty-free concessions
- Clearing your belongings once in Australia
- Tips for preparing your goods
- The best way to pack your belongings
Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPEs)
Unaccompanied Personal Effects include your household and personal items that you’re taking with you to Australia but that’ll arrive separately to you. Usually this means these items arrive in Australia by air, sea or post.
Typical UPEs are clothing, personal hygiene and grooms items, furniture, appliances, sporting equipment and books.
To check if an item you’d like to take with to Australia is allowed or not, you can consult the importing guide of the Australian Border Force.
However, according to Australian import regulations, the following items are not UPEs:
- Cars
- Car parts
- Commercial goods
- Bequeathed goods
- Items that have been bought online
Here’s what you cannot take with you
You are prohibited from bringing certain items into Australia. These items are:
- Fresh fruit and vegetables.
- Live plants and bulbs.
- Prohibited and restricted seeds.
- Unidentified seeds, including spices.
- Live animals that require an import permit, including pets. Find out here how to take pets to Australia.
- Biological products including some plant-based, herbal medications.
- Unprocessed goods of plan or animal origin.
- Soiled goods, or goods containing organic residues.
- Goods knowingly infested with pests or diseases.
To do a search for a specific item, you can go to the Australian Border Force’s website section on prohibited items.
Fees and charges
There are multiple fees and charges you have to include in your budget. These include but are not necessarily limited to:
- Documentation screening charges.
- Inspection fees. Your final inspection fee will depend on the time it takes to inspect your goods.
- Treatment of goods, if applicable.
- Facilitation fees and storage fees, charged by Approved Arrangement (AA) sites.
To get an accurate costing, it’s best to speak consult either the website of the Australian Border Force or to speak to a reputable import company.
Duty-free concessions
You may be eligible for concessions on customs duty and Goods and Services Tax if you and your goods meet certain requirements.
Requirements that you have to meet:
- You arrived on a ship or aircraft from a place outside Australia.
- You meet permanent residency requirements.
Requirements that your belongings have to meet:
The goods must be:
- Your personal property;
- Suitable and intended for use by you in Australia; and
- Personally owned and used overseas by you for a specified length of time. Usually, this is 12 months prior to your departure to Australia.
Please be aware that you won’t receive concessions for:
- Cars or car parts.
- Tobacco and tobacco products.
- Alcoholic beverages.
Clearing your belongings
You can arrange to have your goods cleared yourself, or you can use an agent or representative to arrange to have your goods cleared on your behalf.
To clear your UPEs, you must complete and lodge an Unaccompanied Personal Effects Statement (B543 Form). You can lodge the form in person or online. Read more about both options here.
Tips for preparing your items
As mentioned, Australia wants to prevent pests and diseases entering the country. This necessitates the emptying, draining, cleaning and drying of any items that have come into contact with food, soil, plants, animals, or their products.
Let’s look at some specific examples of what you can do:
- Garden furniture, fencing, pots, ornaments, outdoor toys, tools and implements: Remove all soil, animal and plant debris.
- Waste bins, brooms, and vacuum cleaners: Remove all waste from these items.
- Container and appliances: Clean these items.
- Camping and sporting equipment: Thoroughly clean tents, backpacks, golf clubs, soccer boots and the like.
- Carpets, rugs, and mats: Vacuum.
- Animal bedding, grooming equipment, cages, and fish tanks: Wash and vacuum; remove all traces of pet hair; drain and clean.
- Fresh water sporting equipment: Drain and dry equipment like reservoirs, wetsuits, and fishing tackle.
- Household items made from wood or with wooden components: Check wooden artefacts and toys, musical instruments, furniture, kitchenware, timber and items with wooden components for any signs of insect infestation. Either treat affected items or leave these items behind. Also check furniture and baskets containing materials such as bamboo, banana leaf, cane, rattan, and wicker.
- Everyday household items: Check for plant material such as seeds, flowers, leaves and pine cones. Think ornaments, photos albums, pot pourri, artefacts, decorations, and the like. Don’t forget to check the fillings of heat bags.
- Fresh food or opened packages of dry foods, and herbs and spices: Do not pack these items. You could import these items but it might be easier to simply buy fresh once you’re in Australia.
Packing your belongings
If you pack properly when moving household items to Australia, you’ll minimize the time it takes the Department to inspect your goods. This in turn will help keep the costs of the inspection to a minimum.
Here are tips from the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources on how to make their job easier:
Create a packing list:
Record all boxes and what is in each box. Also include a description of what the goods are made from. For example, metal bed frame or cane basket. The Australian authorities will ask for this list.
Label and number:
Number the packing boxes and match the numbers on your packing list. Be sure to use permanent marker to write on boxes when you’re labelling them. Don’t use sticky labels, as these often fall off during the move.
Cartons and packing materials:
It is best to not use second-hand boxes or bags, unless you’re absolutely certain these are free from animal or plant material. Additionally don’t use straw, sawdust, wood shavings or other plant materials as packing or filler.
Pack items in groups:
Pack goods that the biosecurity officer may be interested in together and group the boxes together.
Pack for safety:
Securely wrap sharp or breakable objects such as knives or ceramic items. Clearly mark boxes with medical items, dangerous goods, or any items that could pose a safety risk. Do not pack flammable items such as fireworks or paint thinners.
Let’s recap what to do when moving household items to Australia
Your personal belonging and household goods are classified as Unaccompanied Personal Effects. The biosecurity officer will be interested in items that originated from animals or plants, or that have been in contact with animals, plants, water, food or soil.
To minimize the time it takes to inspect your goods, you should clean your belongings and pack the boxes in a way that makes it easy for the officer to check your belongings. The inspection is charged on time, so the shorter the inspection has to be, the less you’ll have to pay.
If you meet certain requirements, you’ll be eligible for concessions on customs duty and Goods and Services Tax.
For more information, please see the website of the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. If you’d like information on how to move your pet to Australia, we recommend reading this blog post.
- Published in Our latest posts, Tips for your move
6 Important things to do if you want to emigrate to Australia
Everyone who wants to emigrate to Australia looks for a magic formula – a step-by-step plan to guarantee success. The truth is that the success of your emigration depends on many factors.
However, there are things you can do to make your emigration as smooth as possible. This starts long before you apply for the visa!
1. Have an immigration eligibility assessment done
To emigrate to Australia, you’ll need a visa to do so. There are a number of visas available for all kinds of purposes, from working to investing in a business.
The best way to find out if you qualify for one of these visas, is to do an eligibility assessment.
There are online assessments available but our advice is to get a licensed immigration agent to do the assessment with you.
You’d want to do this as a first step so that you know that you’re spending your time and energy on a dream that’s possible.
2. Do your homework if you’re going to work with an immigration agent
If you do decide to work with an immigration agent, ensure that this person is licensed and registered with MARA. That’s the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority of Australia.
By doing this, you’ll ensure that the advice you’re getting is based on the latest immigration regulations.
You’ll also have the peace of mind of working with an immigration agent that’s held accountable for the advice he or she gives you.
3. Research life in Australia
Hopefully you’ve been to Australia a few times and you know what to expect. But if you’ve never set foot Down Under, it’s wise to do some research. Find out:
- If the quality of life is what you’re looking for
- How cities and territories compare
- What the cost of living is
This is just a starter list, so add to it whatever else is important to you. If you’re a parent, that might be information on schools. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be.
4. Start exploring the job market now
Exploring Australia’s job market will give you insight into the types of jobs that are available, the salaries within your industry, and the skills and experience employers ask for.
Of course you’ll need also need a visa. Read more about Australia’s skilled migration visas here and see here for information on employer sponsored visas.
5. Decide what you want to with your home and its contents – and whether you want to buy or rent once you’re in Australia
When it comes to your belongings, you can choose to ship everything, to store some or all of it, or to sell everything before emigrating to Australia. Compare the costs to see which route will make the most sense for you.
The next decision to take is whether or not to sell your current home or keep it. If you keep it, you could rent it out. The extra money could come in handy.
Of course there is the possibility that you’ll be forced to sell your home to finance your emigration. If you’ve gotten those cost estimates we discussed, you’ll know if this will be necessary or not.
Then the time will come to decide between renting and buying in Australia. Renting is a good place to start. It gives you time to find your feet before having to make huge property decisions.
6. Get cost estimates
We strongly advise getting estimates of costs to see exactly how much your emigration is expected to set you back financially. Many people don’t realise just how expensive moving countries can get.
Flights and visas are often just the beginning!
It’s also advisable to add initial living and housing costs to your budget, as well as emergency funds for at least the first 6 months.
Get in touch when you’re ready to emigrate to Australia
Intergate Emigration’s immigration agents are all licensed and registered with MARA. We’ve also helped hundreds of families emigrate to Australia!
To see how we can help you too, simply book a consultation call. Our advisors are ready to assist you.
- Published in Immigration Advice, Our latest posts
How do I know which Australian immigration agents I can trust?
There are many stories of people ripped off by unscrupulous Australian immigration agents. Often people are left without savings in their bank accounts.
Even worse – deported, because the visa turned out be fake!
The best way to make sure that the person you are dealing with is the real deal, is to check that they are a migration agent listed on the website of the Office of Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).
If you cannot find the ‘agent’ on MARA’s website, walk away and do not deal with them.
There are also other ways to tell if you’re dealing with the ‘real deal’ or not. Usually the signs come in the form of false promises or, plain and simple, outright lies.
Here are the most common of those that you’ll hear:
I can guarantee that you’ll get a visa
This is false. No-one can guarantee you’ll get a visa. Only authorised Australian immigration officers can grant you a visa and only when you have met all the visa requirements.
Pay now to register for the migration program
This is not how things work. You only pay for your visa application when you lodge it.
Please note: Your migration agent is allowed to charge for their services and most likely will do so. These charges will never come a surprise though. According to the MARA code of conduct, all charges for services rendered by an immigration agent must be detailed in your contract with your agent.
This is a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’
It might be hard to believe, but some fraudulent agents actually call people to offer them visas. It’s then framed as an opportunity not to be missed. All to get money out of you!
MARA registered agents will never call you first to offer you migration ‘opportunities’. This a relationship that always start with the client, i.e. you’ll contact the agent.
Only I can pay the charges. Give me your money and I will pay the charges for you
False again. You can pay your own visa application charge. However, you might still choose to let your migration agent do it for you – but only do so if you’re sure you’re dealing with a registered agent!
I have a special relationship with the Department of Home Affairs
No-one has a ‘special relationship’ with the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA). It’s just not how it works. The DoHA treats all visa applications in a fair and impartial manner.
I am a skilled migration service provider/Australian Government registered/department registered
The only Australian immigration agents you should deal with are agents with a Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN). Do not take any agent on their word only! Look for a MARN number on the agent’s website or in their advertising.
Don’t worry, the Department of Home Affairs is still processing your visa
Do not just accept this. Your agent is obliged to let you know, in writing, about the progress of your application. Ask for a copy of the confirmation letter if necessary.
If the person can’t give you a confirmation letter, contact the DoHA directly for feedback on your application.
Keep in mind though that some applications do take longer than others, so there will be times when your immigration agent won’t have any feedback for you.
I need to keep your original passport/birth certificate/idendity document to give to the Department of Home Affairs
The DoHA usually only wants certified copies of original documents. In the event that the DoHA wants to see original documents, a DoHA visa officer will ask you for them.
Why is important to know this? Because you don’t want to be a victim of identity fraud – which you could easily be if you give your personal documents to a fraudster.
Want to know if you can trust our Australian immigration agents?
Yes, you can. Our immigration agents are licensed and registered with MARA. You can find their details on our website or on the MARA website:
If you’d like to get in touch with us to discuss your Australian immigration journey, please feel free to contact us.
- Published in Immigration Advice, Our latest posts
Immigrating to Australia: Expectation vs Reality
Where are you getting advice about immigrating to Australia?
If it’s from anyone but a licensed immigration advisor, you might have the wrong information.
That’s not the position you want to be in if you’re about to spend thousands on visas and relocating your family.
Let’s rather get your immigration off to a good start by clearing up 10 common misconceptions about immigration to Australia.
1. All I need to do to immigrate is get a relative in Australia to sponsor me.
WRONG. This a common assumption, but the truth is that a family member can only sponsor you in these specific instances:
- You’re a skilled migrant with an occupation on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) list and you have an eligible family member who lives in regional Australia.
- You have an eligible child in Australia who can sponsor you for a parent visa.
- You’re the only remaining relative of an eligible family member in Australia – and even if you are, the remaining relative visa has a processing time of up to 30 years!
If you don’t meet these requirements, you’ll have to explore other avenues to immigrate to Australia.
2. I only need 65 points to apply for an Independent Skilled Visa (Subclass 189)
NOT ENTIRELY TRUE. Yes, you must get at least 65 points in your points test but that’s only to enter the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool for the Independent Skilled Visa.
The demand for Skilled Independent visas is very high and only the highest ranked applicants by points score are selected to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
3. I don’t have to take an English test for my skilled migrant application because I hold an eligible passport
NOT QUITE. Some passport holders are indeed exempt from doing a compulsory English test but most skilled migrants still have to take an English test because they need the extra points.
If you decide to take one of the approved English proficiency tests and you score ‘proficient English’, you’ll add 10 points to your application BUT if you have ‘superior English’, you can add 20 points to your Expression of Interest points score.
4. I’ll easily find a job once I’m in Australia
MAYBE, MAYBE NOT. It’s quite possible that you could find a job in a week or two but it could also take a couple of months.
How quickly this happens would depend on a number of factors like what you can offer employers, the job market in your specific industry and Australia’s overall economic health.
That’s why it’s a good idea to go to Australia with enough funds to survive for at least 6 months without an income – plan for the worst, but hope for the best.
Have a read through our blog posts on how to get a job in Australia and how to ace your interview to make your job hunt more successful.
5. If I study in Australia, I’ll get permanent residency
NOT QUITE. Studying in Australia in itself does not grant you permanent residency – but studying in Australia could put you on the path to becoming a permanent resident.
Your eligibility for Australian residency after studying in the country would depend on a number of factors, including the occupation you’re in, your work experience, your age and your English language proficiency.
6. My work experience will definitely be recognised in Australia when I apply for a skilled migrant visa
NOT NECESSARILY. Your work experience must meet the requirements as set out in ANZSCO. This includes the tasks you must be able to perform in your job.
Your industry’s relevant assessing authority will assess your experience, skills and qualification and then make a recommendation as to your suitability to work in Australia. The outcome of this assessment can be that your skills are ‘suitable’ or ‘not suitable’.
Some assessing authorities might also make a recommendation that you must register with professional body or complete certain additional tests or programmes.
7. I can live and work wherever I want to in Australia
PERHAPS. You can live and work anywhere in Australia if you manage to qualify for a Skilled Independent Visa.
However, if you qualify for any other work visa, the criteria dictate that you have to work in regional Australia or in the city where your sponsoring employer requires you to work for the sponsoring company.
‘Regional Australia’ is most locations outside of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
8. Our pets move in on the same day we do
NO. Australia has strict pet import regulations and all pets entering Australia, except those from New Zealand or Norfolk Island, are subject to 10 days of quarantine.
When entering Australia from another country through New Zealand, your pet must be quarantined in New Zealand, then remain on the island for 90 days in quarantine before entering Australia.
Our advice is to arrange your pet’s quarantine organised as soon as you’ve received the import permit.
9. I’m getting free healthcare in Australia!
NOT NECESSARILY. Australia’s public healthcare system, Medicare, is available to Australian citizens and permanent residents and some temporary residents, and it covers certain medical costs in part or in full. These medical costs are:
- Seeing a GP or specialist
- Test and scans, like x-rays
- Most surgery and procedures performed by doctors
- Eye tests by optometrists
If you don’t qualify for Medicare, you’ll have to have private health insurance to cover your health and medical costs.
10. I’m going to spend my weekends exploring all the different parts of Australia!
NOT SO FAST. Australia is not only a country – it’s also a continent and it’s massive. In fact, Australia is the 6th largest country in the world. It’s larger than India and most of Europe could find into Australia!
Finding that hard to believe? Europe covers an area of 10,18 million km² – Australia is not much smaller at a size of 7,692 million km².
You’re definitely going to need more than weekends to explore this vast country! And you’re probably going to be better of flying to where you want to go.
Feel like you need more realistic advice?
Our Australian immigration advisors have helped hundreds of families and individuals with their immigration to Australia. They’ve encountered just about scenario you can imagine!
To speak with our team, simply book a consultation call. We’ll set you up with the correct information – the reality not the expectation – about immigrating to Australia.
- Published in Immigration to Australia, Our latest posts
4 Tips on how to prepare for your English language test
If there is one part of the immigration process that’s underestimated by many, it’s the English language test. “But I can speak English, it won’t be a problem”.
Sure, but can you speak it to the level Australia requires? Can you demonstrate your reading, listening and writing skills well? And when was the last time you were subjected to the nail-biting anxiety of having to complete an exam in a certain time?
The score of your English language test could determine whether or not you can submit a visa application. Won’t you want to be as prepared as can be?
Tip 1: Understand the test format
The most common English language tests are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic).
Both of these tests consist of four parts:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
In turn, each part consists of a set of questions and tasks. Familiarising yourself with all the parts, questions and tasks will prepare you for what’s coming on test day. Going in blind is setting yourself up for failure!
Let’s give you the Listening component of the IELTS as an example:
You’ll listen to four recordings. Each recording is done in a different accent and only played once.
After listening to the recordings, you’ll have to answer questions based on what you’ve heard. This part of the test is broken down into four parts with 10 questions each. The formats of the questions include:
- Multiple choice.
- Matching.
- Sentence completion.
- Plan/map/diagram labelling.
- Form/note/table/flow-chart/summary completion.
Can you already see why it’s important to prepare for your English test?
Tip 2: Practice with sample tests
Completing sample test materials will help to prepare you for the test in a big way! You’ll be able to:
- Familiarise yourself with the test format.
- Experience the types of tasks you’ll be asked to do.
- Test yourself under timed conditions.
- Review your answers and compare them with model answers.
This is like the tests that came before the big end-of-year exams at school. Do you think you would’ve done half as good in the exam if you didn’t write the tests beforehand?
Both IELTS and Pearson have sample tests available on their websites, and you download it here and here.
Tip 3: Consider working with an English language teacher
If you’d prefer someone to guide you, instead of preparing on your own, working with an English language teacher is the way to go.
Usually teachers offer tutor sessions over Skype and – big plus – it’s one-on-one. The teacher will introduce you to the test format, take you through sample tests, give feedback, and focus on your developmental areas.
Clients of Intergate can access our list of recommended English language teachers. If you haven’t asked for it yet, do so today.
Tip 4: Know what to expect on test day
Think back to your finals at school. Remember how you had to be seated at a certain time? Remember that you had to have at least two pens?
The English language test environment is similar. You’ll have to bring stipulated items with in order to be able to write your test. And you’ll have to be on time!
Your English language teacher, if you work with one, will be able to prep you on all the requirements. If you’re a client of ours, you can also speak to our advisors to find out what to expect on test day.
In summary…
This is not ‘just’ an English test.
This test forms part of Australia’s eligibility criteria for anyone who wants to live and work Down Under. Scoring well is crucial to increasing your overall points score and thus your chances of immigrating.
If you don’t prepare for your English test, you’re doing yourself a great disservice. You might also end up having to pay for another test – and we’re sure you wouldn’t want to do that.
- Published in Immigration Advice, Immigration to Australia, Our latest posts
4 Uncomfortable truths about emigrating – Plus the good news
Immigrating is a huge undertaking. Especially if you’re doing it as a family! However, most people entering the emigration process do not fully realise what lies ahead.
Is it worth it? Of course! You’re opening doors to new opportunities and a better life for yourself and your family.
But how do you prepare yourself for the journey? A good way to start is by reading the uncomfortable truths (and the good news) below.
1. You’re going to have a lot of admin to do
Many applicants are surprised by the amount of admin that’s involved in the application.
You have to gather the required documents, complete the necessary paperwork, do the applicable tests, and complete a skills assessment if your visa asks for it.
Everything has to happen at the right time too and it also has to happen in a way or format that meets the requirements of Australia’s Department of Home Affairs.
The good news
Our licensed immigration advisors can guide you through everything that’s required and ensure that it happens as and when it should. Our team even go as far as booking English tests for you, leaving you with more time to focus on those behind-the-scenes things.
2. Your emigration might not happen as quickly as you’d like
You can’t wait to pack your bags and get on that aeroplane! And who can blame you? Australia is a dream destination.
Unfortunately, your emigration might not always happen as quickly as you want it to.
For instance, the Department of Home Affairs might get an influx of applications for a new visa category which means everyone has to wait a bit longer on the outcome of their visas. Or, as we all now know, a pandemic could strike!
The good news
You can rest assured that we always compile your application as quickly as possible to submit it as soon as it’s possible. And while we cannot influence the Department of Home Affairs in any way, we do undertake to ensure that you’re never left in the dark about what’s happening with your application.
3. Emigration is not cheap
There are a lot of costs involved in emigrating, from paying the movers to putting down a deposit on a place to stay or importing your pet. You’ll also have to pay government fees and you might need to pay for English tests and registrations too.
The good news
When you deal with us, you’ll know exactly how much your visa application will cost. Simply book a consultation call!
Firstly, and most importantly, you’ll discover during the consultation call if you are eligible to move to Australia. You don’t want to spend money on a visa application if you don’t!
If you are eligible to immigrate to Australia, the licensed advisor will also discuss your visa options with you. However, if you aren’t immediately eligible, the advisor will discuss the best way forward.
After the call, if you are eligible to apply for a visa, you’ll get a complete quote outlining the costs of your application. Our team can also refer you to reputable pet importers and English language teachers so that you have an even better idea of the costs involved.
4. Emigration is not for the faint-hearted
Moving countries is a huge undertaking, so prepare for elevated stress and anxiety during your immigration! Take comfort in the fact that this is normal and that you can get through it. Don’t forget either that you’re doing one of the most exciting things any person can do!
The good news
You don’t have go it alone with our advisors at your side! Our team will ensure that your stress and anxiety is kept to a minimum by seeing to it that all requirements are met, and by giving you realistic timelines and expectations.
Here’s what some of our recent clients had to say:
Applying for an emigration visa is a big and important decision. Having a professional agency at your side that guides and solves the tasks in a structured manner, step by step, is essential for success!
I am enthusiastic about the fantastic service, the professionalism and the understanding, calm action even in challenging situations. Precise and reliable like a Swiss watch with heart! A big compliment and thank you to Katrin Maja O‘Flynn!
I will finally be able to meet again and marry my husband in South Australia. We were separated for so long. A painful and endless time is coming to an end thanks to the fantastic work of Katrin Maja O‘Flynn and her team.
~ Andrea
Hi Maike, Katrin and Natanya,
This has literally been the most swift and efficient process I have ever experienced in my life. Less than 6 months from start to end…where we were expecting closer to 2 years. You have all been fabulous to work with and trust me, I have already referred many people to you.
I want to thank you so much for all you have done for us and giving us the key to start the chapter of our lives that we have been wanting to start.
I will read all the documents later and advise on any queries, etc.
Have a great week!
Thanks so much again!
~ Dale and Kate
Hi Maike,
We are delighted to receive the news that our visa has been approved!
On behalf of my family I thank you and your team for your dedication and sense of urgency right through the application process. Thank you for your guidance and professionalism throughout the journey.
We are privileged to be in position of the visa and we know it wouldn’t have been possible without your valued contribution.
We will definitely recommend you to our friends and family.
~ Johan and Sunet
Ready to make your emigration easier?
Then book a consultation call! You’ll speak directly with one of our licensed immigration advisors who’ll take you through visa options and share the costs involved.
If you choose us as your immigration advisor, our team will guide you through your application, providing support and advice every step of the way.
- Published in Immigration Advice, Immigration to Australia, Our latest posts
Familiar with the Australian skills assessment? You should be
The Australian skills assessment is a skills test that is part of the application process for certain work visas and the Temporary Graduate visa.
It’s much more than just another box to tick on your to-do list though.
Your skills assessment result could determine whether or not you can live and work in Australia.
What is the Australian skills assessment?
The objective of a skills assessment for the purpose of immigration to Australia is determining if your qualifications and experience meet the standards for working in Australia in your occupation.
Who assess your skills?
Your skills will be assessed by your profession’s relevant Australian assessing authority. For instance, Engineers Australia assess engineers and the ACS is the official assessing authority for professionals who work in the ICT industry.
Each assessing authority has its own assessment procedures, timeframes and charges, so you’ll have to contact the relevant authority to get the correct information. If you’re working with an immigration agent, he or she should be able to give you more details.
How does skills assessment influence your immigration?
During the assessment both your qualifications and experience are assessed. You’ll need a positive outcome for both for a successful assessment and immigration. If you don’t get positive outcomes, you might not be able to immigrate to Australia.
Who needs to have skills assessed?
You may need to have your skills assessed by an assessing authority to be eligible to apply for one of these visas:
- Skilled independent visa (subclass 189)
- Skilled nominated visa (subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186)
- Temporary Skill Shortage visa
- Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
You must speak to your advisor to find out if you should get a skills assessment done. In the case that you must get an assessment done, your advisor will be able to tell you at what stage of the application you’ll have to do the assessment.
Ten of the most prominent assessing authorities
Below we’ll share the assessing authorities our team works with the most. We’ll share what each authority is, straight from their website, and give links to more information about the particular skills test where it’s available.
1. Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA)
The AACA is the ‘national voice for architect registration boards around Australia. AACA owns the National Standard of Competency for Architects. The National Standard underpins all assessment processes including the accreditation of architecture programs leading to registration as an architect in Australia.’
Read more about the skills assessment here.
2. The Professional Association for Australia’s ICT sector (ACS)
The ACS is the ‘authorised assessing authority that undertakes skill assessments for the purposes of skilled migration.’ Their role is to ‘assess the skills and qualifications of ICT professionals who are considering migration to Australia to work in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.’
Read more about the skills assessment here.
3. Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors AIQS
The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) is the ‘peak professional standards body for built environment cost professionals’ and dedicated to ‘maintaining the highest standards of professional excellence and continuous development.’
The AIQS’s members are all built environment professionals, predominately with job titles such as Quantity Surveyor, Cost Estimator, Cost Planner, Cost Manger, Cost Engineer, Cost Consultant and Project Controller. Their members also include graduates and students.
When it comes to skilled migration, the AIQS is the assessing authority ‘nominated by the Australian Government to provide expert advice to the Department of Home Affairs about qualifications and skilled employment experience with respect to the skilled occupation ‘Quantity Surveyor’ (ANZSCO 233213).’
Read more about the skills assessment here.
4. Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL)
The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership strives to ‘develop expertise and empower teachers and school leaders to create better education outcomes for Australian children’. When you want to immigrate to Australia, the AITSL will assess your suitability to work in the country as a school teacher.
Read more about the skills assessment here.
5. Australian Psychological (APS)
The Australian Psychological Society (APS) ‘advance psychology for members and their communities via advocacy, education, and evidence-based practice’. The APS has 24,000 members working in diverse settings and sectors across Australia and the rest of the world.
6. The Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Inc
The Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (ACVB) works to ‘ensure the quality (recognised nationally and internationally) of the Australian and New Zealand veterinary profession’. The AVBC serves its members in a number of ways:
- Providing a forum for communication and discussion of areas of mutual interest and policy development
- Providing the framework for public and industry confidence in veterinary standards
- Assuring and promoting education standards in the accreditation of veterinary schools, the Australasian Veterinary Examination and specialist registration.
Read more about the skills assessment here.
7. Engineers Australia
Engineers Australia (EA) is the ‘largest and most diverse body of engineers in Australia’. As Australia’s principal engineering association EA ‘serve and represent around 100,000 professionals at every level, across all fields of practice’.
Further to this, EA is a ‘trusted authority’ who uses its expertise to ‘create, accredit and assess engineering programs and practitioners’.
Read more about the skills assessment here.
8. Occupational Therapy Council of Australia
The Occupational Therapy Council of Australia is an independent NPO whose purpose it is to ‘ensure that standards of education, training and assessment of occupational therapists are maintained and developed so the Australian public is assured of safe and proper practice’.
Read more about the skills assessment here.
9. Trades Recognition Australia
Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) is a ‘skills assessment service provider specialising in assessments for people with trade skills gained overseas or in Australia, for the purpose of migration and skills recognition’.
Get more information about the skills assessment here.
10. VETASSESS
VETASSESS is Australia’s leading vocational education and training (VET) skills assessment provider for both migration and national skills recognition.
VETASSESS is recognised for their expertise and experience in ‘assessing the qualifications and work experience of prospective migrants, and supporting individuals’ applications for employment, course entry and industry membership’.
VETASSESS assess 29 trade occupations and more than 350 professional occupations from various industries. Furthermore, VETASSESS’s portfolio of services expands to include educational research and consultation on assessment standards, test design and curriculum development.
Read more about the skills assessment here.
Is it your dream to live and work in Australia?
Then you should contact us! Our advisors will assess your eligibility to apply for a work visa, advise on your visa options, and discuss the immigration process with you.
- Published in Immigration to Australia, Our latest posts, Working in Australia