Guide to apply for Australia Work Visa

One of the easiest questions to answer is, why to work in Australia. Apart from the fact that it is a pleasure to live here, it is also true that Australia has remained untouched by the global financial crisis. The country is a leading tourist destination and its popularity is growing in leaps and bounds. Even though the costs of living here are higher than in most countries, the pay is higher as well. Australia offers some of the best average salaries in the world. One could even double the savings by living here.

When it comes to job opportunities, Australia has a shortage of skilled workers. This shortage creates fantastic career opportunities with lucrative pay. The working conditions and perks offered are quite unmatched. These are some very good reasons to work in Australia.

Expats in Australia

Australia has one of the largest migration programs with over 0.19 million jobs reserved for permanent migrants. Nearly 70% of this is reserved for skilled migrants under the Skilled Migration Program. Statistics show that the country issues approximately 0.12 million permanent visas dedicated to skilled workers every year. The distribution of these visas depends on the most in-demand skills for that specific year.

Work Visa – Numerous Options

There is a constant need for people with specialization and skills in Australia. The growing economy provides enough job opportunities. To accommodate and welcome skilled expats, Australia today offers numerous visa options for workers by issuing visas to workers based on their qualifications or the skill sets that they have. There are visas for temporary or permanent employment and visas sponsored by employers.

Recognition of your skills and qualifications

Companies in Australia value qualifications and work experience as it provides them with a fresh perspective to their work environment. The SkillSelect Program gave expat job seekers with specialized skills good opportunities to apply. There were five visa subclasses under this program that was initiated in 2013

• Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189)
• Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190)
• Graduate Temporary visa (Subclass 485)
• Skilled Nominated or Sponsored visa (Provisional) (Subclass 489)
• Skilled Regional visa (Subclass 887)

Applicants to this program were assessed on a points-based system and could qualify for a visa only if they had the required points. It is prudent to stay updated on the requirements and regulations.

Pension Benefits

Expats living and working in Australia are entitled to various pension benefits once they meet the residency and age requirements. Individuals working here can explore the benefits of a Superannuation Fund – a retirement savings account.

Types of work visas

• Skilled workers
• People participating in specific activities
• Working holiday seekers
• Specialized workers
• Short-term trainees

Apart from this, an expat can also apply for a sponsored visa in which case you will have to find a sponsor or apply to the SkillSelect program with an Expression of Interest. Under the employer nomination scheme, a permanent work visa is given to workers sponsored by their companies. Under the temporary skilled shortage, expats can work between two to four years based on the employee’s requirement. Applicants must have a minimum of two years’ work experience and should be less than 45 years. Organizations taking employees on this visa will pay them the market salary.

An expat can stay in Australia for twelve months to four years depending on the category of the Work Visa. If it is under the RSMS or ENS, they can stay indefinitely as long as they remain sponsored under these schemes.

The requirements to work in Australia through the Skilled Visa are:

• Must be below 45 years at the time of application
• Must possess adequate ability in the English language for working in Australia, minimum a competent level (IELTS/TOEFL)
• The skilled occupation matching the qualifications and skills must be found on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
• The skills must be assessed by the assessing authority in Australia designated to verify the nominated occupation before applying
• Must have reasonably good health. Should be evaluated by a panel doctor by undergoing a medical examination
• Must have good character. This will also be assessed.
• Must pass the Points test with a minimum of 65 points

IELTS is a primary requirement for applicants of Australia Work Visa. Many companies, professional organizations, and industries consider the IELTS score for selecting a candidate.

Documents required

• Passport (with a minimum of 6 months validity)
• 2-3 recent photographs.
• Job offer letter.
• Proof of dependents, if applicable.
• Health and travel insurance.
• Good conduct documentation.
• Personal Character Assessment (Form 80)
• IELTS/TOEFL to show evidence of proficiency in english
• Educational documentation
• Health insurance

The Australia Work Visa processing times will depend on the category of Visa that has been applied for. It will also depend on other factors such as:

• The time that is taken for verification of your details
• Any additional clarification/requirement sought by the authorities

Future Focus Infotech

If you are applying for an Australian work Visa, it is recommended that you take the help of an Australian Immigration Specialist. The documents required and the time taken for each process depends on the purpose of the visa. Be it a working holiday seeker or specialized worker, our fully trained team can help you obtain an Australia Work Visa in a seamless manner.

Working in Australia, you can enjoy the basic rights and workplace protection rules as any other local employee. This makes Australia a fair and lucrative destination to make a career. Create a thorough and comprehensive application for the Australia Work Visa with us to increase the chances of your success. Call us now and expand your horizons.