Migrating to a new country is a big decision. There’s a lot to consider and it can be overwhelming to know where to start. If you're thinking of moving, here’s our guide on how to immigrate to Australia.
Step 1: Research your options
The first stage in the process of emigrating to Australia is to conduct some preliminary research to identify your options. There are hundreds of different visa subclasses so it’s important to select the one that is right for you. This may include:
- Determining if you have a skill that is in demand in Australia and eligible for a skilled migration visa
Determining what kind of business you would like to operate in Australia
- Deciding where you may want to live. This decision may impact your visa application, particularly if you wish to seek sponsorship or nomination by a particular state.
Step 2: Speak to a lawyer or registered migration agent
The Australian immigration laws are complex. That’s why it’s a good idea to speak to a immigration lawyer or registered migration agent (RMA) to advise you on the process. While it may cost you a little more upfront, it will save you time and money in the long-run by ensuring you get your visa application right the first time. Generally, refusals of applications occur when prospective migrants self-manage their own application, which can end up in expensive review and appeal proceedings.
RMAs can help advise you on a range of matters including:
- Selecting the right visa for you
- Determining whether you can bring your family with you
- Determining if you are eligible for sponsorship/nomination by a State, family member or prospective employer
- Identifying what you need to do to fulfil the requirements of the visa.
Step 3: Fulfil any requirements for your Australian visa application
There are several requirements that you may need to complete before you submit your visa application. These include:
If you are applying for a skilled migration visa you may need to have your skills assessed by a specific authority in Australia
Sitting for your International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
Completing your medical examination
If you want to apply for sponsorship or nomination by a state you may need to contact them or apply before submitting your EOI
Submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI) and any accompanying documents
When submitting your EOI it’s important to ensure you do not make any mistakes. If you submit an EOI for the wrong type of visa, fail to include all the relevant documents or make another mistake, it may result in your EOI not being approved. This can be a very costly mistake.
Step 4: Apply for your visa
If your EOI is accepted you will receive an Invitation to Apply. This means you can now apply for your visa. While you will have already provided some documents with your EOI, you will now need to put together the rest of your documentation and possibly update some documents.
These will all need to be collated, and your visa application prepared and submitted.
Step 5: After your decision
If your visa application has been approved, it will now be time to plan your move. Depending on your visa and your own personal circumstances this may include:
- Looking into purchasing or renting a property in Australia
- Looking for a job or a business to purchase in Australia
- Packing and preparing to move
In some circumstances, you may also require legal assistance to purchase a property in Australia or help you purchase a business.
If your visa application is not approved, you may be able to have the decision reviewed. An immigration lawyer or RMA can help you determine the best course of action.
Pathway Lawyers & Migration Agents has advisors who are uniquely both RMAs and lawyers, so we are best placed to help you with each
