tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84992437688328715632024-02-24T12:45:03.628-08:00Migrate To AustraliaAn online resource for people interested in migrating to Australia and attaining the permanent resident or citizenship status.Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-46453500190510142622013-06-16T04:33:00.001-07:002013-06-16T04:46:56.570-07:00Four year Temporary Graduate skilled visa subclass 485<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Changes were made to the
Temporary Skilled Graduate (subclass 485) visa, from 23 March 2013.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span> <br />
You can apply for Four year temporary graduate skilled visa subclass 485 in the Post-Study Work stream if you:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>applied for, and were granted, your <b>first </b>student visa to Australia on or after 5 November 2011</li>
<li>have completed an eligible qualification from an Australian educational institution</li>
<li>meet the two year Australian study requirement in the past six months.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
First student visa</h3>
This stream is only available to you if you applied for, and were granted, your <b>first</b>
Student visa to Australia on or after 5 November 2011. If you applied
for and were granted any Student visa to Australia (including
subclasses 560, 562, 570, 571, 572, 573, 574, 575, 576 or 580) before 5
November 2011, as either the main applicant or the family member of an
applicant, you will not be able to apply in this stream.<br />
<h3>
Qualifications</h3>
In
the past six months you must have completed one or more of the
following qualifications at an Australian educational institution:<br />
<ul>
<li>bachelor degree</li>
<li>bachelor degree with honours</li>
<li>masters by coursework degree</li>
<li>masters (extended) degree</li>
<li>masters by research degree</li>
<li>doctoral degree.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
When is your course completed?</h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Qualifications are
considered to have been completed when your educational institution
publicly notifies you that you have met the requirements for the award
of the qualification, for example, in a completion letter. Submission
of a thesis, or completion of exams, is not sufficient.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This date
should not be confused with the date of conferral of your award. The
date of conferral is the date that you actually receive your degree,
diploma or trade qualification, for example, at a graduation ceremony. </div>
<h3>
Australian study requirement</h3>
In
the six months before you apply, you must meet the Australian study
requirement. This means that you must have completed one or more
courses registered on the <a href="http://cricos.deewr.gov.au/">Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS</a>).<br />
Your course must:<br />
<ul>
<li>result in the award of a bachelors, masters or doctoral degree</li>
<li>be conducted in English</li>
<li>be at least two academic years (92 weeks) duration</li>
<li>be lawfully completed in no less than 16 months</li>
<li>be completed at an Australian educational institution in Australia.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
English language proficiency courses or enabling programs cannot be used to meet the Australian study requirement.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you complete a graduate diploma or graduate certificate in a
packaged, nested or articulating course leading to an eligible
qualification, you can use that study towards meeting the two-year study
requirement. For example, you can count a Graduate Diploma in
Educational Studies leading to a Master of Education.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You can
only use study that leads to an eligible qualification. If you complete
a degree and then take a graduate diploma or graduate certificate
course, the diploma or certificate course cannot be used to meet the
two-year study requirement.</div>
<h4>
How does the duration of your course count towards this requirement?</h4>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You
can use CRICOS to find the registered duration of a course. The
department will use the same information. A course that is listed on
CRICOS as having a 92-week duration is considered to meet the
requirement of two academic years.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The department will credit you
only with the duration that is listed on CRICOS, even if you take
longer to complete your course. Failed subjects and parts of courses
taken outside Australia do not count.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If your educational
institution awards you credit towards a qualification on the basis of
prior learning, that credit may count towards meeting the two-year
requirement, but only if the prior learning was in Australia, was in a
CRICOS-registered course, and is used only once to meet the Australian
study requirement for a visa.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you take overlapping courses for
separate qualifications (for example, a Masters in Finance and a
Masters in Accounting), the period of overlap can only be counted once
towards the two-year requirement.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You cannot count any studies
outside Australia towards the Australian study requirement. The only
courses you can count towards the Australian study requirement are
those that are completed in Australia.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial;">Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa </span></div>
<div class="HEADINGTWO" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 36.0pt; margin-top: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Changes were made to the
Temporary Skilled Graduate (subclass 485) visa, from 23 March 2013.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGTWO" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 36.0pt; margin-top: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">This visa was renamed
the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGTWO" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 36.0pt; margin-top: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Students may be eligible
to apply for a subclass 485 visa through either the Graduate Work stream or the
Post-Study Work stream, depending on their individual circumstances. </span></div>
<div class="HEADINGTWO" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 36.0pt; margin-top: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">See: </span></b><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/students/_pdf/2011-post-study-work.pdf"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">www.immi.gov.au/students/_pdf/2011-post-study-work.pdf</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="HEADINGTWO" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 11.4pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 36.0pt; margin-top: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Information regarding
the subclass 485 visa is available.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGTWO" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 11.4pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 36.0pt; margin-top: 0cm;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">See: </span></b><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/visas/students/485"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">www.immi.gov.au/visas/students/485</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="HEADINGTWO" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 36.0pt; margin-top: 0cm;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">All subclass 485 visa
applicants must meet the Australian study requirement in the six months immediately
prior to making their visa application, regardless of the stream that they are
assessed under.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16.0pt;">The Australian study requirement</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The Australian study
requirement has two equally important and related components. To meet this
requirement, students must have:</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">attained either a single
qualification requiring at least two academic years study or multiple qualifications
resulting in a total period of at least two academic years study; and</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 72.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2)<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">undertaken this study in
no less than 16 months.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">For both streams of the
subclass 485 visa, the Australian study requirement must have been met in the
six months immediately before making a visa application.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Acceptable
courses</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">To meet this requirement,
the course/courses must also:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">be registered through the Commonwealth Register of
Institutions and Course for Overseas Students (CRICOS)</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">have been successfully completed</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">have resulted in an eligible qualification (see page 3 for
further detail)</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">have had all instruction in English</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">have been completed while physically in Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">have been completed while holding a visa allowing study in
Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">be counted only once towards the Australian study
requirement.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">English language
proficiency courses or enabling programs cannot be used to meet the Australian
study requirement.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Two
academic years study</span>
</div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Two academic years study
is defined as 92 weeks of study in a course or courses registered by CRICOS.
CRICOS determines a standard duration (number of weeks) for each course.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Students may take longer
to complete the course, but will only be credited with the number of weeks that
CRICOS determines as a standard duration. For example, if it takes a student 92
weeks to successfully complete a course that CRICOS says should take 78 weeks, they
will receive credit for 78 weeks only.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Only study that is
successfully completed counts towards the two academic years. Failed subjects
will not be considered. </span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Students may meet the two
year academic study requirement when completing a course that is longer than
two years. For example, if a course is CRICOS registered for 138 weeks (three
years) and consists of 24 equally weighted units, two academic years will be
met when 16 units of that course have been successfully completed.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Credits and
exemptions</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Credits for prior
learning may reduce the amount of study undertaken. Credit granted on the basis
of study undertaken in Australia in a course registered with CRICOS may
contribute towards meeting the Australian study requirement, but only once.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The credited units cannot
be counted towards meeting the Australian study requirement if they are already
being used to meet the requirement as part of another course or if they were granted
on the basis of study undertaken either overseas or within Australia in a
non-CRICOS registered course.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Minimum of
16 months</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The Australian study
requirement cannot be met in less than 16 months.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">This period begins when
the study commences (generally from the start of lectures and excluding
orientation periods) to the date at which all academic requirements have been
completed.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Overlap of
qualifications</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Students may undertake
overlapping qualifications. For example, students applying under the Graduate
Work stream of the subclass 485 visa may complete a Diploma in Finance and then
a Diploma in Accounting where two units in the last qualification have been
granted as credit from the earlier qualification.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Where qualifications
overlap, periods of study cannot be counted more than once.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">If a student completes
more than one qualification, but uses only the most recent qualification to
meet the Australian study requirement, then any credit received in the most
recent qualification from the previous qualification(s) will count towards
meeting the Australian study requirement.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The actual period of study
within the previous qualification(s) on which the credits were based may also
be used to meet the 16 month requirement.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Study
outside Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Study undertaken outside
Australia cannot be used to satisfy the Australian study requirement. However,
if a student undertook some study overseas but nevertheless completed at least
two academic years of study in no less than 16 months in Australia in a CRICOS
registered course, they can still meet the Australian study requirement.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></b><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Example </span></b>
</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">An applicant who
undertook a three year, six semester Bachelor degree following the study
pattern mentioned below will have completed two academic years study in
Australia:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">semester 1 outside Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">semester 2 in Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">semester 3 in Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">semester 4 in Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">semester 5 outside Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">semester 6 in Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The pattern of study does
not matter as long as the Australian study requirement is met.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Completion
date</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Subclass 485 visa
applications must be lodged within six months of the <b>date of</b> <b>course
completion</b>.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The date of course completion
is the first date on which the educational institution publicly notifies the
student that they have met the requirements for the award of their degree,
diploma or trade qualification. This notification can occur by:</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">letter </span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">publication in a newspaper </span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">publication on the internet </span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">email</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">bulletin board at the tertiary institution.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 11.4pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">This date should not be
confused with the date of conferral of award. The date of conferral is the date
that the student actually receives their qualification, for example, at a
graduation ceremony.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-line-height-alt: 14.0pt; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial;">Applying under the Post-Study Work stream</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The following provides
information about the Australian study requirement specific to subclass 485
visa applicants under the Post-Study Work stream.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Eligible
qualifications</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">To meet the Australian
study requirement, the course/courses must have resulted in an eligible
qualification. The eligible qualifications differ depending on which stream of
the subclass 485 visa the applicant selects.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">For the purposes of
applying for a subclass 485 visa under the Post-Study Work stream, only study
that results in the conferral of an eligible degree level qualification will be
considered. An eligible degree level qualification is a:</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Bachelor degree</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Bachelor (honours) degree</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Masters by coursework degree</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Masters (extended) degree</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Masters by research degree</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Doctoral degree</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Study resulting in a
diploma level qualification or trade qualification will not be considered.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">As an example a student
may complete a one year Bachelor degree followed by a one year Masters degree
and meet the Australian study requirement under the Post-Study Work stream,
provided the other components of the requirement are satisfied.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Study must
be at a certain level</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Only study undertaken at
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 7 or above (Bachelor degree
level or above), which leads to the conferral of an eligible degree level
qualification, may be considered towards meeting the Australian study
requirement. An eligible degree level qualification is a Bachelor degree,
Masters by coursework degree, Masters (extended) degree, Masters by research
degree or Doctoral degree.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">This means that degree
level courses which are packaged with a Graduate Certificate or Graduate
Diploma course may be considered, provided they otherwise meet the Australian
study requirement.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Example </span></b></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Students who complete a
Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies which articulates (or leads) into a
Master of Education are able to use both the study at the Graduate Diploma and
at the Masters level towards meeting this requirement.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Example </span></b></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.7pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Students who complete a Bachelor of
Arts and then a Graduate Diploma in Asia-Pacific Studies will only have study
undertaken at the Bachelor degree level considered, as the Graduate Diploma did
not contribute towards the conferral of an eligible degree level qualification.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.7pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Study must be at an
eligible education provider</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 11.4pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">All courses used to
satisfy the Australian study requirement must have been undertaken at an
eligible Australian university or any other education provider accredited to
offer degree level programs.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-line-height-alt: 14.0pt; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial;">Applying under the Graduate Work stream</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The following provides
information about the Australian study requirement specific to subclass 485
visa applicants under the Graduate Work stream.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Eligible
qualifications</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">To meet the Australian
study requirement, the course/courses must have resulted in an eligible
qualification. The eligible qualifications differ depending on which stream of
the subclass 485 visa the applicant selects.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">For the purposes of
applying for a subclass 485 under the Graduate Work stream, the course/courses
must have resulted in a degree, diploma or trade qualification. For example, a
student may complete two consecutive Diploma level courses and satisfy the
Australian study requirement under the Graduate Work stream, provided the other
components of the requirement are satisfied.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #003767; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.0pt;">Qualifications
must be closely related to nominated occupation</span>
</div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">The qualification(s)
completed must be closely related to the student’s nominated skilled
occupation. This means the subject matter and the skills gained from the qualifications
can be applied at the level achieved in the nominated skilled occupation.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Example </span></b></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Acceptable combinations
of study and nominated occupations include:</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">an applicant who nominates ‘Pharmacist’ as their skilled occupation
and completes a Bachelor of Pharmacy in Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">an applicant who nominates ‘Air-conditioning and Mechanical
Services Plumber’ as their skilled occupation who has completed a Certificate
III in Plumbing and a Diploma of Plumbing and Services in Australia</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">Example </span></b></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">A combination of study
and nominated occupation that would <b>not</b> be acceptable:</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 90.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 54.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">An applicant’s nominated occupation is Registered Nurse but
they satisfied the Australian study requirement on the basis of having
completed a Bachelor of Commerce.</span></div>
<div class="HEADINGONE" style="line-height: 14.0pt; margin-bottom: 5.65pt; margin-left: 54.0pt; margin-right: 54.0pt; margin-top: 0cm; tab-stops: 54.0pt;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-80931648840833550612013-06-10T02:04:00.000-07:002013-06-10T02:04:35.519-07:00Australian SOL Updated<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2>
Australia Updates Skilled Occupation List for 2013</h2>
<div class="_t_time">
Tuesday, June 04, 2013</div>
<div class="addthis_toolbox addthis_default_style _t_add">
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) has announced that a new Skilled Occupation List (SOL) will apply from 1 July 2013 with 5 occupations to be removed. <br /><br />The updated SOL is based on expert advice from the independent body, the Australian Workforce Productivity Agency (previously known as Skills Australia). The updated SOL for 2013 comprises 187 high value occupations in Australia, with 5 following occupations to be removed: </div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Hospital Pharmacist (ANZSCO 251511)</li>
<li>Retail Pharmacist (ANZSCO 251513) </li>
<li>Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics) (ANZSCO 323111) </li>
<li>Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical) (ANZSCO 323112) </li>
<li>Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures) (ANZSCO 323113) </li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The updated SOL will be effective on 1 July 2013. It will apply to
all new independent (unsponsored) and family sponsored skilled visa
applications lodged on or after 1 July 2013 unless they are from
applicants eligible for transitional arrangements.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The SOL determines which occupations are eligible for independent and family sponsored skilled migration.
The SOL is reviewed by the Australian Workforce Productivity Agency on
an annual basis in order to ensure that it meets the needs of the
Australian labour market. The SOL will continue to deliver a skilled
migration program that is focused on high value skills and responsive to
future economic conditions and skill needs.</div>
</div>
Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-47589855344743371842012-12-08T18:55:00.000-08:002012-12-08T18:55:12.189-08:00Expression of Interest: EOI<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<u><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #666666;">What is EOI:</span></span></span></b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">From 1 July 2012, all intending migrants interested in the points based
skilled migration or business investment and innovation visa programs
will be required to submit an EOI and receive an invitation in order to
lodge a visa application.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">An EOI is not a visa application, it is an indication that you would like to be considered for a skilled visa.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
You will be asked to provide a range of information in your EOI depending on the visa(s) you want to be considered for, such as:</span></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">basic personal information</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">nominated occupation</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">work experience</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">study and education</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">level of English skills</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">details of a Skills Assessment, related to your nominated occupation</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">business and investment experience.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For more details on what questions and information you will need
to supply in your EOI, you should refer to the webpage for the visa(s)
you are interested in.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Points Test</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For the points based
skilled migration and business innovation and investment visa programs ,
you will be ranked according to the appropriate points test. You will
be able to submit an EOI even if you do not meet the pass mark; however,
you will not be invited to apply for a visa. For information about how
to calculate the points test, you should refer to the points test tab on
the webpage for the visa you are interested in.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It is important to remember that meeting the points test pass mark does not guarantee you an invitation to apply for a visa.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If
you select the subclass 190 or 489 visa(s) you will receive the
appropriate points for nomination or sponsorship. For example if you
select the 190 visa subclass you will receive 5 points which will be
added to your points score. Your points score based on your claims in
your EOI will then be displayed before you submit your EOI<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Nominated Occupation</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If
you are submitting an EOI for a visa that requires you to list a
nominated occupation you should establish if your occupation is a
skill that Australia needs. You can do this by checking the <a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/sol">Skilled Occupation Lists</a>. You must provide details of a Skills Assessment relating to your nominated occupation in your EOI.</span></span></div>
<br />
<u><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What you need to do before submitting your EOI</span></span></b></u><br />
<div class="expanded" style="cursor: pointer; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">While
you don’t need to submit documents supporting your claims when you
submit your EOI, you must have a range of information prepared.<br />
For example, for an independent skilled visa you must have:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">completed a <a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/asri">skills assessment</a> and/or a job ready program</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">taken an English-language test to prove you meet the English language requirement.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For details on what information you need to provide on your EOI,
you should refer to the webpages for the visa(s) you are expressing
interest in.</span><b><u><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></u></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><u><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Submitting an EOI</span></span></span></u></b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></u></b></span></span></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-6" style="display: block; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you have researched your visa options and prepared the information
required, you are ready to submit an EOI. All EOIs must be completed
online using SkillSelect. You start your EOI by selecting the “submit an
EOI” button on this website.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is no fee to submit an EOI in
SkillSelect.When you complete your EOI the system will give you a points
score and results based on your claims.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your result and points
score, along with your time and date of effect becomes your ranking for
some visas. The time and date of effect of your EOI, is the date and
time you submitted your EOI or the latest date and time you updated your
EOI causing your eligibility or points score to change. Rankings are
processed automatically by SkillSelect with no involvement of the
department’s staff.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">To submit a complete EOI you must meet all the
threshold criteria for the relevant visa subclass yo uexpress interest
in. If you do not meet the threshold criteria, you will have to deselect
the visa before you can submit a complete EOI.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Once you have completed your EOI, it is stored in SkillSelect and is valid for two years.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you have not completed your EOI it will be stored for two years, but you will not be eligible to receive an invitation.</span></span><br />
<br />
<u><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After submitting an EOI</span></span></b></u></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-6" style="display: block; text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-7" style="display: block; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After you submit your completed EOI, you will receive notification from SkillSelect.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">You
can access your EOI and update your information at any time. You may
wish to do this if you have gained new work experience, gained a higher
qualification, improved your English language ability and/or changed
your family composition. If you provide updated information which
changes your points score or your ability to make a complete EOI,
SkillSelect will update your ranking and ability to be considered for an
invitation automatically.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is your responsibility to access
your EOI and update your details if your circumstances change. You will
not be able to update your EOI after you have received an invitation.
Your invitation to lodge a visa application is based only on the
information presented in your EOI.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your invitation to lodge a visa
application is based on only on the information presented in your EOI.
If you lodge a visa application and your points score is less than
claimed in your EOI and invitation letter, your visa will be refused
even if you are able to pass the points test or meet other threshold
criteria. You will not receive a refund of any visa application charge
if your visa application is refused.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
If you receive an invitation and your points have decreased or your
personal information is not accurate, you do not have to proceed to make
an application. You should correct the information in your EOI and wait
to receive another invitation.</span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<u><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Suspending, withdrawing or removing an EOI</span></span></b></u><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Suspending an EOI</b></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-8" style="display: block;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you are unable to access your EOI for a length of time, then you can
choose to suspend your EOI. While this will not extend the validity of
your EOI it will stop you receiving invitations or contacts that you
cannot act on, and will avoid your EOI being removed while you are, for
example, on holiday and receive two invitations during that time.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you receive an invitation, your EOI will be suspended automatically so
your EOI cannot be considered for any subsequent invitation rounds or be
available to employers to search for and contact you. Your EOI will
remain suspended until such a time that you lodge a visa application and
that application is finally determined or 60 days ceases and you do not
lodge a valid visa application. During this time you can view your EOI
and your correspondence, but cannot update your answers on your EOI or
select different visa types.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Withdrawing an EOI</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">You can
withdraw your EOI at any time by accessing your SkillSelect account and
selecting the option “Withdraw EOI”. If you withdraw your EOI it will be
permanently removed from SkillSelect.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Removing an EOI</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you receive two invitations and you do not lodge a visa application in
response to either of these invitations, your EOI will be removed from
SkillSelect.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your EOI will be removed automatically if it expires.
Submitted EOIs expire after two years. EOIs that are begun, but are
never submitted as a complete EOI will also be removed automatically two
years after they are commenced.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you do not comply with the
terms and conditions of SkillSelect, your EOI can be removed by the
department at any time. You will be asked to read and agree to the terms
and conditions when you register for a SkillSelect account.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you have a decision on a substantive visa application</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you are granted, refused or withdraw a permanent visa or a 489 or 188
provisional visa application, your EOI will be removed from SkillSelect.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you are granted, refused or withdraw a temporary visa application, your
EOI will remain in SkillSelect for future selection unless it is
withdrawn, expires, or is removed.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<b><u><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Invitation and selection process </span></span></u></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Depending
on what type of visa(s) you want to be considered for, you may receive
an invitation to lodge a visa application, or an Australian employer may
contact you to discuss a job opportunity.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Occupation ceilings</span></span></b></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-10" style="display: block;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">An
occupation ceiling may be applied to invitations issued under the
points based skilled migration program. This means there will be a limit
on how many EOIs are selected for skilled migration from an occupation
group. This ensures that the skilled migration program is not dominated
by a small number of occupations.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When this limit is reached, no
further invitations for that particular occupation group will be issued
for that program year. Invitations would then be issued to other EOIs
who have nominated available occupations even if they are lower ranking.
For the state and territory nominated visas, a state or territory will
not be able to nominate you if your nominated occupation has reached its
occupation ceiling.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You can view the occupation ceilings on the <a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/#tab-4">Reports page</a>.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Independent and family sponsored visas</span></span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Invitations
will be issued automatically to people with the highest ranking EOIs,
subject to occupation ceilings and to those whose points score exceed
the current pass mark.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The points test pass mark is the minimum
number of points required to receive an invitation. Not all EOIs that
meet the points test pass mark will receive an invitation.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The
department’s staff will not choose who will receive an
invitation. Invitations will be issued regularly, such as every month.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">State and territory nominated visas</span></span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">State
or territory governments can select skilled workers who they want to
nominate. State and territory governments may do their own assessment of
people before they nominate them. If you are nominated by a state or
territory and you have indicated that you meet the points test pass
mark, you will then receive an invitation, subject to occupation
ceilings.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When you submit an EOI for one of these visas, you will
be asked to choose which state or territory you wish to live and work
in. You can select one state or territory, or any state or territory.
You will also be asked to indicate if you are prepared to live and work
in a non-metropolitan area. If you choose only one state or territory
then that state or territory government will be able to view your EOI.
If you select any state or territory, then all state or territory
governments will be able to view your EOI.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For more information
about what the state or territory government's assessment criteria,
refer to the state or territory government websites:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.immigration.sa.gov.au/">South Australia</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.development.tas.gov.au/migration/">Tasmania</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/">Victoria</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.migration.wa.gov.au/">Western Australia</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/migration/">New South Wales</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/content.cfm?id=3168">Queensland</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.migration.nt.gov.au/">Northern Territory</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.business.act.gov.au/">Australian Capital Territory</a></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-10" style="display: block;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Business innovation and investment visas</span></span></b></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-10" style="display: block;">
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">State or
territory governments will locate and select skilled business people
that they want to nominate. State and territory governments may assess
people before they nominate them. If you are nominated by a state or
territory and you have indicated that you meet the points test, you will
automatically receive an invitation.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">On a limited basis,
nominating state or territory governments may award additional points
towards the innovation points test where they have determined that your
proposed business is of exceptional economic benefit to that state or
territory.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When you submit an EOI for one of these visas, you will
be asked to select which state or territory you wish to live and work
in. You can choose one state or territory, or any state or territory. If
you select only one state or territory, then that state or territory
will be able to view your EOI. If you select any state or territory,
then all state or territory governments will be able to view your EOI.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For
more information about what the state or territory governments will
assess you on before nominating you, refer to the state or territory
government websites:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.immigration.sa.gov.au/">South Australia</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.development.tas.gov.au/migration/">Tasmania</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/">Victoria</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.migration.wa.gov.au/">Western Australia</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/migration/">New South Wales</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/content.cfm?id=3168">Queensland</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.migration.nt.gov.au/">Northern Territory</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.business.act.gov.au/">Australian Capital Territory</a></span></span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Employer sponsored visas</span></span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-10" style="display: block;">
</div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-10" style="display: block;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Employers can search for and
contact skilled workers that they want to discuss job opportunities
with. If you are contacted by an employer in SkillSelect, you can choose
to respond to them to discuss employment and visa opportunities. You
will not receive an invitation to apply for an employer sponsored visa.</span></span></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-10" style="display: block;">
</div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-10" style="display: block;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When
you submit an EOI for one of these visas, you will be asked which state
or territory you are interested in living and working. You will also be
asked to indicate if you are prepared to live and work in a
non-metropolitan area. You will be able to select one or more state or
territories, or any state or territory. Employers will be able to view
your EOI and will be able to narrow their searches to specifically focus
on skilled workers in their area. SkillSelect protects your personal
information such as your name, date of birth and other characteristics
that could personally identify you. This information will not be made
available to employers.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you have already received sponsorship from an employer, you do not need to submit an EOI in SkillSelect.<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>If you receive an invitation</b></u></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-8" style="display: block;">
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-11" style="display: block;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If
you are invited to apply for a visa, you will receive an invitation
from SkillSelect. You will then have 60 days to make a valid visa
application online, before the invitation expires. Applications received
outside this timeframe will be invalid.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The invitation will contain instructions on how you can lodge your visa application.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As
the online visa application system uses information from your EOI, you
do not need to re-enter information you already provided on your EOI.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
You must provide evidence of your claims with your visa application.
Health and character will be assessed and requested during the visa
application stage.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="important-info">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Be aware:</b> If you do not make a valid visa application after receiving two invitations, your EOI will be removed from SkillSelect.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<u><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you are not invited or selected</span></span></b></u></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-8" style="display: block;">
<br />
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-12" style="display: block;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">More
people want to migrate to Australia than there are places available.
This means not everyone who submits an EOI will receive an invitation to
apply for a visa.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Your EOI will stay in SkillSelect for two years
from the date you submit it. At any time during the validity of your
EOI, you may update your details to reflect any additional
qualifications or experience you may have obtained. This may increase
your likelihood of being invited or an employer contacting you.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You
may receive notifications from SkillSelect notifying you of visa
programs changes, that your EOI is expiring, or other information that
you may find useful. You will not be notified of the progress of your
EOI or be able to obtain updates on the likelihood of receiving an
invitation.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After each invitation round for the points based skilled migration visas, the department will publish on the <a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/#tab-4">Reports page</a> the
lowest scoring points test mark that allowed an EOI to be invited for
each relevant subclass. This will give you an indication of your
potential for receiving an invitation in future rounds.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">An EOI is
not a visa application. You cannot access merits review by the Migration
Review Tribunal (MRT) if you do not receive an invitation to apply. If
you want to express concerns to the department about the invitation
process, you can provide feedback online - <a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/contacts/forms/services/">Global Feedback Unit</a>.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Visa programs in SkillSelect</b></u></span></span></div>
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-8" style="display: block;">
<br />
<div class="content-block" id="sub-heading-3" style="display: block;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">From
1 July 2012, if you are interested in the following visas, you will
need to submit an EOI and receive an invitation before you can apply for
a visa:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-189">Subclass 189 Skilled – Independent (Permanent)</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-190">Subclass 190 Skilled – Nominated (Permanent)</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-489">Subclass 489 Skilled – Regional Nominated or Sponsored (Provisional)</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-132">Subclass 132 Business Talent (Permanent)</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-188">Subclass 188 Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional)</a></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">You can also express interest in the following visa programs on your EOI to be contacted by an employer.</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-186">Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-187">Subclass 187 – Regional Sponsored Scheme (RSMS)</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skills/skillselect/index/visas/subclass-457">Subclass 457 – Temporary Business (Long Stay)</a></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">You can express interest in a range of skilled migration visas in one EOI.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-72486692619734372592012-06-20T06:15:00.001-07:002012-06-20T06:15:15.725-07:00Australia to Grant Work Visas for Overseas Graduates<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The Federal government will expand the Skilled Graduate visa scheme next year which will allow overseas students who graduate from Australian universities to be eligible for work visas lasting two to four years.</div>
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<a href="https://www.migrationexpert.com.au/t.asp?d=18" rel="nofollow" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_self"><img src="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/images/news-ad-AU.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /></a></div>
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According to Immigration Minister Chris Bowen, the expansion of the Skilled Graduate visa scheme would help to enhance the competitiveness of Australia's $18 billion inbound student industry. The relaxed immigration rules would potentially grant work rights for all 220,000 overseas <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/living_in_australia/australian_universities/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Universities in Australia">university students in Australia</a> after they graduate.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 18px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The current <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Immigration to Australia">Australian immigration</a> system allows only graduates who have studied for one of the following skilled occupations: trades, medicine, engineering, architecture, accounting and teaching, to work in Australia for up to 18 months. Other overseas students must leave Australia within a month of graduation.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 18px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
From next year, however, all graduates will be eligible for <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/work_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian Work Visa">Australian work visas</a>regardless of their field of study. Graduates with a bachelor degree, a master's degree or a doctorate will be allowed to stay and <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/living_in_australia/working_in_australia/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Working in Australia">work in Australia</a> for two years, three years or four years respectively, rather than the existing 18-month time limit.</div>
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Visa holders will need "<a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/living_in_australia/learn_english_in_australia/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Learn English in Australia">competent English</a>" and health insurance, as well as have to pass health, character and security requirements.</div>
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"These arrangements are not linked to <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/work_visa/skilled_independent_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian Skilled Independent Visa">skilled migration</a> so applicants for this visa would not be required to nominate an occupation on the <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/jobs_in_australia/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Jobs in Australia">skilled occupation list</a> or undertake a skills assessment", said a spokeswoman for Minister Bowen.</div>
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"The government will reserve the capacity to modify arrangements in future according to economic and employment circumstances", she added.</div>
If you are interested in <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian visas">Australian visas</a>, contact <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Migration Expert – Australian visa services">Migration Expert</a> for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_immigration_services/australian_visa_eligibility_assessment/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Visa eligibility assessment">visa eligibility assessment</a> to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Australia.</div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-4238241505779037332012-06-20T06:13:00.003-07:002012-06-20T06:13:34.958-07:00Australia Updates the Skilled Migration Pass Mark<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">June 15, 2012, Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship announced changes to the pass mark for the new SkillSelect Visa.</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.migrationexpert.com.au/t.asp?d=19" rel="nofollow" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_self"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img src="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/images/news-ad-AU_2.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; cursor: move; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pass mark for the new SkillSelect visa subclasses 189, 190 and 489 will be adjusted to 60 points. SkillSelect is a new electronic service which helps the Australian government to manage the <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/work_visa/skilled_independent_visa" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Apply for Skilled Independent Visas to Australia">Australian skilled migration</a> program. Applicants wanting to <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/living_in_australia" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Living in Australia">live</a> and <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/living_in_australia/working_in_australia" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Working in Australia">work in Australia</a> without an employer sponsor must submit an online expression of interest (EOI) before <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_visa" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Obtain Australian Visas">applying for an Australian visa</a>. Based on claims and attributes of intended migrants, the applicants will be given a score against the points test so that SkillSelect can rank scores with other EOIs. The highest scores will be invited to apply for a skilled visa.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Delivery of a balanced migration program requires careful management," a spokesperson says. "SkillSelect will provide greater control over who can apply for a skilled visa and when they can apply."</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pass mark for existing general skilled migration subclasses 175, 176, 475, 487, 885 and 886 will stay the same at 65 points. Australia expects the new SkillSelect visas to attract more foreigners with the skills and attributes needed in Australia to register their interest in migration.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are interested in <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/visa/australian_visa.asp" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian visas">Australian visas </a>, contact <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/visa/australian_visa.asp" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Migration expert - Australian visa services">Migration Expert </a>for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try its <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/visa/australian_visa.asp" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Visa eligibility assessment">visa eligibility assessment </a>to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Australia.</span></div>
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</div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-61213759089652044772012-06-18T04:38:00.000-07:002012-06-18T04:43:22.009-07:00Australia Updates Skilled Occupation List for 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) on June 13, 2012 published the updated Skilled Occupation List (SOL) for 2012 which features 4 new occupations and 4 occupations to be removed.</span></span></div>
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The updated SOL is based on expert advice from the independent body, Skills Australia. The updated SOL for 2012 comprises 192 <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/jobs_in_australia/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Jobs in Australia">high value occupations in Australia</a>, with 4 new occupations to be added and 4 occupations to be removed. The additions to the SOL include Production Manager (Mining), Metallurgist, Optometrist, Computer Network and Systems Engineer. 4 occupations that are removed are: Chemist, Audiologist, Bricklayer and Wall and Floor Tiler.</div>
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The updated SOL will be effective on July 1, 2012. It will apply to all new<a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/work_visa/skilled_independent_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian Skilled Independent Visa">independent</a> (unsponsored) and family <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/work_visa/skilled_sponsored_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian Sponsored Skilled Visa">sponsored skilled visa</a> applications lodged on or after 1 July 2012 unless they are from applicants eligible for transitional arrangements. DIAC will continue to process applications lodged before July 1, 2012 with a nominated occupation that is no longer on the SOL in effect from July 1, 2012. Priority processing arrangements may however change for certain applicants according to the Ministerial Direction on priority processing.</div>
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The SOL determines which occupations are eligible for independent or unsponsored skilled migration. The SOL is reviewed by Skills Australia on an annual basis in order to ensure that it meets the needs of the <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/living_in_australia/australian_labour_market/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian Labour Market">Australian labour market</a>, and to make sure the <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian visa">migration</a> program is responsive to economic conditions and skills needs.</div>
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If you are interested in <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Australian visas">Australian visas</a>, contact <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_visa/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Migration Expert – Australian visa services">Migration Expert</a> for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our <a href="http://www.migrationexpert.com.au/australian_immigration_services/australian_visa_eligibility_assessment/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #78a043; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" title="Visa eligibility assessment">visa eligibility assessment</a> to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Australia.</span></span></div>
</div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-57038681551482302572011-12-15T19:23:00.001-08:002011-12-15T19:40:10.793-08:00Australia to Implement Skilled Migrant Selection Register from July 1, 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) has released additional details about the Skilled Migrant Selection Register (SkillSelect) reform which was announced on May 11, 2011.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The implementation of the new Skilled Migrant Selection Register known as SkillSelect is aimed to help Australia select the best and brightest skilled migrants from a huge number of prospective migrants and to fill the available places in the migration program. The SkillSelect system will be based on an Expression of Interest (EOI) and subsequent invitation to apply to ensure a match between the number of applicants, the number of available program places and the available processing resources.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">DIAC describes SkillSelect as an electronic two-stage process. Prospective applicants first have to submit a claim for skilled migration through an online EOI and they may then be invited to lodge an Australian visa application on the basis of their EOI. Applicants will be selected from their points test score in each occupation category and invited to apply for skilled migration to Australia at regularly scheduled intervals.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">All prospective applicants will be required to meet the relevant English language proficiency and obtain the necessary skills assessment prior to their EOI submission.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The SkillSelect system will affect prospective applicants for the following skilled visas:<br />
</div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>Skilled Independent subclass 175 (migrant) and 885 (residence)</li>
<li>Skilled Sponsoredsubclass 176 (migrant) and 886 (residence)</li>
<li>Skilled Regional Sponsored subclass 475 (provisional) and 487 (provisional).</li>
</ul><br />
<br />
<div><div style="text-align: justify;">SkillSelect will take effect on July 1, 2012 and from that date, all new prospective applicants for the visas listsed will have to submit an EOI and wait for an invitation before they can lodge their visa application. For those who have lodged a visa application before that date, DIAC will process the application in accordance with any priority processing direction in effect at that time.</div></div></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-40269349702719930802011-07-21T01:27:00.000-07:002011-08-05T20:25:22.525-07:00New Points system in place<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br />
<div class="post-header"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.workpermit.com/australia/australian-immigration.htm">Australia</a> has implemented major changes to its <a href="http://www.workpermit.com/australia/general-skilled-migration.htm">General Skilled Migration program</a> on 1 July 2011. The pass mark for various visa subclasses is now 65 points. The age limit has also been raised from 45 years of age to 50.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Nominated occupations no longer earn points, but applicants are still required to nominate an occupation. <a href="http://www.workpermit.com/australia/point_calculator.htm">Points are scored</a> for experience in an occupation. Experience within Australia and overseas in a nominated occupation can be combined to earn points of up to 20 points.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">There are now tougher English language requirements; All applicants must be at English language level "Competent" to be eligible to apply under the General Skilled Migration programme.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">You can gain 5 additional points if you have a spouse who can satisfy the basic requirements under the General Skilled Migration programme; Points can be earned for language skills in a number of community languages such as Punjabi, Hindi, German, French, and many others, and for a qualification at an Australian institution.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.workpermit.com/australia/australian-immigration.htm">Australia</a> has implemented major changes to its <a href="http://www.workpermit.com/australia/general-skilled-migration.htm">General Skilled Migration program</a> on 1 July 2011. The pass mark for various visa subclasses is now 65 points. The age limit has also been raised from 45 years of age to 50.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Nominated occupations no longer earn points, but applicants are still required to nominate an occupation. <a href="http://www.workpermit.com/australia/point_calculator.htm">Points are scored</a> for experience in an occupation. Experience within Australia and overseas in a nominated occupation can be combined to earn points of up to 20 points.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">There are now tougher English language requirements; All applicants must be at English language level "Competent" to be eligible to apply under the General Skilled Migration programme.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">You can gain 5 additional points if you have a spouse who can satisfy the basic requirements under the General Skilled Migration programme; Points can be earned for language skills in a number of community languages such as Punjabi, Hindi, German, French, and many others, and for a qualification at an Australian institution.</div></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Overview of changes to the points test</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Below is a summary of the changes to the points test</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>Age ranges</b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Eligibility for points is determined by the applicant's age on the day of making their application. If an applicant is aged between 45 and 49 years of age, they will be able to apply for a visa, but no points will be awarded for age:</div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 63.6pt; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 63.6pt; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></div></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin-left: 0.25pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 81.35pt;" valign="top" width="81"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Points</span></b></span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 136.3pt;" valign="top" width="136"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 5.25pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">Age</span></b></span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 81.35pt;" valign="top" width="81"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 5.75pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">25</span></span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 136.3pt;" valign="top" width="136"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 6.45pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">18-24</span></span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 81.35pt;" valign="top" width="81"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 6pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">30</span></span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 136.3pt;" valign="top" width="136"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 5.5pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">25-32</span></span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 81.35pt;" valign="top" width="81"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.8pt; margin-left: 5.75pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">25</span></span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 136.3pt;" valign="top" width="136"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.8pt; margin-left: 5.75pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">33-39</span></span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 81.35pt;" valign="top" width="81"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.8pt; margin-left: 6.7pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">15</span></span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 136.3pt;" valign="top" width="136"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.8pt; margin-left: 5.25pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">40-44</span></span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.7pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.7pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 81.35pt;" valign="top" width="81"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.8pt; margin-left: 12.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">0</span></span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.7pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 136.3pt;" valign="top" width="136"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.8pt; margin-left: 5.25pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;">45-49</span></span></div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Better English Language Results</b></span></div></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">For all skilled migration points tested visas, the threshold English language requirement will be competent English, which is a minimum score of 6 in each of the four components of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test or other language test specified by the Minister. While no points will be awarded for competent English, applicants who have obtained this score are able to apply for a visa as long as they meet the other threshold visa requirements.</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Applicants who hold a valid passport and are citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America or the Republic of Ireland are deemed to meet competent English language requirement.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 63.6pt; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin-left: 0.25pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 13.45pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; font-family: inherit; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: justify; width: 76.55pt;" valign="top" width="77"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11.25pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Points</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; font-family: inherit; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: justify; width: 384.25pt;" valign="top" width="384"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.15pt; margin-left: 6pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Description of English language ability</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 25.9pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: inherit; height: 25.9pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: justify; width: 76.55pt;" valign="top" width="77"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 5.75pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">20</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: inherit; height: 25.9pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: justify; width: 384.25pt;" valign="top" width="384"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.2pt; margin-left: 5.75pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Superior English (a score of at least 8 in each of the four components of</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.2pt; margin-left: 5.5pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">the IELTS test, or equivalent standard in a specified test)</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 26.4pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: inherit; height: 26.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: justify; width: 76.55pt;" valign="top" width="77"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.75pt; margin-left: 6.7pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">10</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; font-family: inherit; height: 26.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: justify; width: 384.25pt;" valign="top" width="384"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.95pt; margin-left: 6pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Proficient English (a score of at least 7 in each of the four components of</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.2pt; margin-left: 5.5pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;">the IELTS test, or equivalent standard in a specified test)</span></div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 63.6pt; text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b> </b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Skilled Employment</span></b></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Points will be awarded for employment in a skilled occupation, either in Australia or overseas. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To claim points for skilled employment, the experience must be in an applicant's nominated occupation, or a closely related occupation. Where applicable, applicants can claim points for both</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Australian skilled employment and overseas skilled employment under the points test. </span></b></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin-left: 0.25pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 13.45pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11.5pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Points</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.2pt; margin-left: 6pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Length of employment</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.45pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 6pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">5</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.95pt; margin-left: 5.75pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">One year</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.75pt; margin-left: 6.7pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">10</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 5.5pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Three years</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 12.95pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 12.95pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.75pt; margin-left: 6.7pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">15</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 12.95pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.45pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Five years</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.9pt;"><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.9pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11pt; margin-left: 5.75pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">20</span></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: scroll; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0%; background-repeat: repeat repeat; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; height: 13.9pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; text-align: center; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Eight years</span></div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Applicants will be awarded points based on demonstration of a verifiable skilled employment history </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">undertaken in the last 10 years as follows: </span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Australian skilled employment in their nominated occupation or a closely related </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">occupation.</span> </span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin-left: 0.25pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 13.45pt;"><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11.25pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Points</span></b></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.45pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.95pt; margin-left: 6pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Length of employment</span></b></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.75pt; margin-left: 6pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">5</span></b></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: initial; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: initial; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 5.5pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Three years</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.2pt;"><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.75pt; margin-left: 6.7pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">10</span></b></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: initial; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: initial; height: 13.2pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Five years</span></div></div></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 13.7pt;"><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: black; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: black; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; height: 13.7pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 72.25pt;" valign="top" width="72"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.8pt; margin-left: 6.7pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">15</span></b></div></div></td><td style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: black; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: initial; border-right-color: black; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: initial; height: 13.7pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm; width: 199.45pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 12.7pt; margin-left: 6.2pt;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Eight years</span></div></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">For the complete update on the latest changes please see the PDF document listed below</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/points-fact.pdf">Fact Sheet on the New Points Test</a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/points-testfaq.pdf">FAQs on the New Points Test</a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Sources: http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/whats-new.htm</div><div><br />
</div></div></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-72625941037896011772011-05-16T01:32:00.000-07:002011-05-16T01:32:45.384-07:00Registration Expiry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Dear all,<br />
<br />
My registration has expired on the 24th of April, 2011. As of 24th April, 2011, I will not be able to provide any immigration related information, paid or unpaid. The articles available on this blog are for general guidance only and in no way are meant to be considered as professional advice.<br />
<br />
Please consult a MARA registered agent for all your immigration queries.<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-39386908616519178912011-02-22T18:33:00.001-08:002011-07-16T18:32:43.617-07:00New Points System from 1st July, 2011<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">So the bottom line of the new rules is</span></div><ol start="1" style="font-family: arial;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Increase your English language scores.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Gain more work experience.</span></li>
</ol><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Why is a new points test being introduced?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><span>On 8 February 2010, the Australian Government announced a series of reforms to the skilled migration program, including a review of the points test. The points test review found the current points test had led to a skewing of applications toward a small number of occupations and does not always lead to outcomes that are consistent with the objectives of the skilled migration program.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>How was the new points test developed?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><span>The Department of Immigration and Citizenship consulted widely in developing the new points test. On 15 February 2010, the department released a discussion paper inviting responses from stakeholders and the general public. More than 220 responses were received from a variety of individuals and organizations including industry peak bodies, education providers, migration agents, current and former international students, prospective migrants from outside Australia and the wider Australian community. State and territory governments were also consulted on the various options under consideration.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><span>The department also took into account research on what aspects of the skilled migration program delivered the greatest contribution to the Australian economy.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>How is the new points test different from the current points test?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><span>The new points test provides for migrants with a better balance of skills and attributes. As no one factor will guarantee migration, successful migrants will need to possess a combination of skills and experience. The changes focus on better English language skills, more extensive skilled work experience, higher level qualifications obtained in Australia and overseas and different age ranges. The new points test will continue to award points for study in Australia, regional study, community languages, partner skills and a Professional Year. Points will no longer be awarded on the basis of an applicant’s occupation, but all applicants must still nominate an occupation on the applicable Skilled Occupation List. See: www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/points-fact.pdf</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Who will the new points test apply to?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">It is important to note that the new points test will only apply to one component of the skilled migration program. This change will not affect every type of skilled migration visa and only applies to applicants for the following visas:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">• Subclass 885 Skilled Independent</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">• Subclass 886 Skilled Sponsored</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">• Subclass 487 Skilled Regional Sponsored</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">• Subclass 175 Skilled Independent</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">• Subclass 176 Skilled Sponsored</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">• Subclass 475 Skilled – Regional Sponsored.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>When will the new points test come into effect?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">It is proposed that the new points test will apply to applications made from 1 July 2011, unless the applicant is eligible for transitional arrangements.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Transitional arrangements apply to people who, on 8 February 2010 held or had applied for a Temporary Skilled Graduate visa (subclass 485). Until the end of 2012, this group is able to apply for a permanent skilled visa under the points test in effect as at 8 February 2010.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Student visa holders who lodge an application for points tested skilled migration from 1 July 2011 will be assessed under the new points test. There are still transitional arrangements which may apply to those students affected by the reforms announced on 8 February 2010.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">People who held an eligible Student visa on 8 February 2010 still have until the end of 2012 to apply for a Temporary Skilled Graduate visa (subclass 485) under the arrangements in place for that visa as at 8 February 2010.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">See: www.immi.gov.au/students/_pdf/recent-changes-gsm.pdf</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>I am a current international student, and am not eligible for the transitional arrangements detailed above. Will the new points test affect me?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">After 1 July 2011, if you are not eligible for transitional arrangements and you lodge an application for any of the visas listed above, you will need to meet the requirement of the new points test</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: 100%;">Will the pass mark change under the new points test?</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The pass mark is a tool that allows for management of the skilled migration program and is always subject to change. It is expected that the pass mark will be set at 65 points.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">There will no longer be a distinction in the pass mark between independent and sponsored visas and permanent and provisional visas.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>I am considering applying for a points tested visa. Should I apply now, or wait until the new points test is introduced? </span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The decision is one for you to make. The department recommends you carefully consider your situation to determine whether the current or the new points test would be of most benefit to you.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">For example, people with higher level qualifications, English language proficiency or more extensive skilled work experience may benefit under the new points test.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>I have already lodged an application for a GSM visa. Can I choose to have my application assessed under the new points test?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">No. Applications lodged before 1 July 2011 will be assessed against the current points test.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">If you want to have your application assessed against the new points test, you will need to lodge a new application after the new points test is introduced. It is important to note that if you choose to lodge a new application, you will be required to pay a new Visa Application Charge (VAC). You will not be able to have the VAC you paid in association with your first visa application refunded.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>I will not be ready to lodge an application before 1 July 2011 and under the new points test I don’t think I will be able to meet the pass mark. What are my options?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Australia is fortunate in that there are many more people seeking migration than places available. Skilled migration to Australia is highly competitive and requirements adjust over time according to Australia’s skills needs. Not everyone will be able to meet the requirements for skilled migration.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">You may want to consider your eligibility to apply for an alternative migration option, such as the Employer Nomination Scheme or Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme. Further information on these programs is available on the department’s website.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">See: www.immi.gov.au/skilled/</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will there be more changes to the requirements for skilled migration?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Australia’s skilled migration program is run to benefit Australia. The program is designed to help deliver the skills the Australian economy needs. The skilled migration program must remain flexible to adjust to economic circumstances to select the best people to contribute to Australia’s future. The program will continue to change over time.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The introduction of the new points test is part of a suite of reforms announced on the 8 February 2010 aimed at delivering a skilled migration program that will select migrants with the high value, nation-building skills that are needed by the Australian economy and labour market.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: 100%;">Why have occupation points been removed from the new points test?</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The points test review found that the current points test gives undue weight to a person’s occupation, as an applicant can claim up to half the points needed to meet the pass mark on the basis of their nominated occupation alone.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The introduction of a more targeted Skilled Occupation List (SOL) means it is no longer necessary to award points on the basis of occupation, as all applicants must nominate an occupation from the new list.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test changes apply to the threshold age requirements?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The maximum age threshold for applicants will be raised from 45 to 49. This recognises that in many professions, workers do not reach their full potential until their mid to late 40s, and that significant work experience is a key factor in determining a skilled migrant’s labour market performance.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">While applicants aged 45-49 will be eligible to apply, no points will be awarded for age. This means that those applicants will have to have outstanding results in other areas in order to meet the pass mark.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test change the allocation of points across different age brackets?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. Australian Bureau of Statistics data and the department’s research indicate that highly skilled migrants who come to Australia between the ages of 25-32 add the most benefit to the Australian economy in terms of lifetime earnings.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>I am over the age of 45 and wish to apply. Do I need to wait until the new points test is introduced?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The maximum age requirement will not be increased until the new points test comes into effect.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Is there a new minimum English language requirement?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">For all skilled migration points tested visas the threshold English language requirement will be Competent English, which is a minimum score of 6 in each of the four components of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test. No points will be awarded for English language where an applicant has Competent English.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test allow applicants to claim points for higher levels of English language proficiency?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test will recognise applicants with higher levels of English language proficiency.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test award points for both overseas and Australian work experience?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test gives more recognition to applicants who have more extensive skilled work experience, either in Australia or overseas.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test award points for experience in any skilled occupation?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">No. To claim points for work experience under the new points test, the experience must be in an applicant’s nominated occupation, or a closely related occupation.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>I have worked in my nominated occupation in Australia and overseas. Can I claim points for both overseas and Australian work experience?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. If you are able to meet the requirements to claim points for both Australian work experience and overseas work experience under the points test then you will be recognised for both.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">For example, an applicant who has worked in their nominated occupation overseas for three out of the past five years and in Australia for one in the past two years will be able to claim ten points for work experience – five points for their overseas work experience and five points for their Australian work experience. Points for skilled work experience will be awarded as follows:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Why are more points awarded for Australian work experience, compared with the same length of overseas experience?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The points test recognises the extra value Australian work experience provides in assisting migrants find skilled employment and settle easily in Australia.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><b> </b><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: 100%;">Will points still be awarded under the new points test for the completion of a Professional Year?</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. Under the new points test, five points will be awarded to applicants who complete an approved Professional Year in their nominated occupation or a closely related skilled occupation.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Under the new points test will applicants be able to claim points for both a Professional Year and Australian work experience?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The current points test is designed so that applicants can only claim points for either Australian work experience or the completion of a Professional Year. The new points test allows an applicant to claim points for both completing a Professional Year and meeting work experience requirements. It is important to note however that work conducted as part of the Professional Year program will not be eligible for consideration as work experience.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Why will the new points test award more points to higher level qualifications?</span></b></span><span style="font-size: 100%;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The new points test awards more points to certain higher level qualifications as higher level qualifications generally result in increased earning capacity.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Why doesn’t the new points test award extra points to an applicant who studies a Master program after completing their Bachelor Degree? </span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Applicants who complete a Master program after completing a Bachelors degree are not awarded extra points, as research indicates that the labour market outcomes of previous skilled migrants have not been improved by holding a Masters degree.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Under the new points test will I be able to claim points for two qualifications?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">No. The new points test will only allow applicants to claim points for their highest level qualification. For example, if an applicant has completed a Bachelors Degree and a PhD, they will only be able to claim points for the PhD.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>To claim points for a qualification or apprenticeship obtained overseas, do I have to have the qualification recognised?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. To claim points for a qualification or apprenticeship obtained overseas, it will need to be recognised as being of a standard comparable to that awarded by an Australian education institution. Further information regarding the process for having an overseas qualification or apprenticeship recognised will be made available closer to the date of implementation of the new points test.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Are there any restrictions on what Australian qualifications can be used to claim points?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. To claim points for an Australian qualification, the qualification must have been undertaken while the applicant was in Australia and it must have been completed as the result of a course of study that was at least two academic years (that is, 92 weeks as registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS)).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test still allow points to be claimed for the Australian study requirement?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. Applicants who have studied in Australia and who have met the Australian study requirement will be eligible for five points under the new points test.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Under the new points test can I use the same period of study to claim points for both qualifications and Australian study?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test will allow applicants who have studied in Australia to use the same period of study to claim points for qualifications and for meeting the Australian study requirement. For example, if you obtain a PhD and meet the Australian study requirement, you can claim 20 points for the PhD and five points for the study in Australia.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test continue to award points to applicants who have studied in regional Australia?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. Under the new points test applicants who satisfy the Australia study requirement while studying in regional Australia will continue to be awarded an additional five points. These points will be available in addition to points claimed for the qualification and for meeting the Australian study requirement.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Under the new points test will applicants still be able to claim points for fluency in a designated community language?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test will award five points to applicants who meet the requirements to claim points for community language.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test change the evidence required to claim points for community language?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test will recognise applicants who are accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) in a designated language.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Points for designated language will no longer be able to be claimed on the basis of having obtained a qualification from a university where instruction was in that language</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will applicants still be able to claim points for partner skills under the new points test?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test will continue to award five points where the primary applicant’s partner satisfies the threshold criteria for GSM.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Under the new points test, to claim partner points the primary applicant’s partner will need to meet the following criteria:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">•be included on the same visa application as the primary applicant</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">•not be an Australian permanent resident or citizen</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">•be less than 50 years old at the time of application</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">•nominate an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List, and be assessed by the relevant assessing authority as having suitable skills for the occupation</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">•have Competent English</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">•have been employed in a skilled occupation for at least 12 months in the 24 months before the application is lodged.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will the new points test change the award of points for sponsorship?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test will award points for sponsorship as follows.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Nomination by a state or territory government under a state migration plan, or sponsorship by an eligible relative, to a regional area for the purposes of a subclass 487 or subclass 475 Skilled – Regional Sponsored application.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will family sponsored applicants still be eligible to apply for a permanent Skilled – Sponsored visa?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">No. As part of the changes accompanying the introduction of the new points test, from 1 July 2011 applicants for the Skilled – Sponsored subclass 176 or 886 visa subclasses will need to be sponsored by a state or territory government under a state migration plan.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">There will no longer be a permanent family sponsored skilled migration visa however eligible family members can still sponsor relatives under the provisional sponsored skilled migration visa. Holders of a provisional sponsored skilled migration visa may be eligible for a Skilled Regional (Residence) visa (subclass 887) after meeting certain eligibility criteria.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Will family sponsored applicants still be able to apply for a provisional Regional Sponsored visa?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">Yes. The new points test will continue to award points to applicants for a subclass 475 or subclass 487 who are sponsored to a regional area by an eligible family member or a state or territory government under a state migration plan. Holders of either of these provisional sponsored skilled migration visas may be eligible for a Skilled Regional (Residence) visa (subclass 887) after meeting certain eligibility criteria.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><b><span>Is there a specific contact number that I can use to find out more about these changes?</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The department is operating a dedicated telephone line to respond to any queries on the new points test. Telephone: 1300 735 683</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;">The detailed break down of the points can be accessed by visiting the URL below and opening the PDF file.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 100%;"><a href="http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/points-fact.pdf">http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/points-fact.pdf</a></span></div></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-43713786128652308222010-05-24T07:03:00.001-07:002010-05-24T07:03:46.293-07:00Blog is back<span style="font-family: arial;">Dear all,</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> After a long long time, I have re-opened my blog. I had run into some legal troubles with the department which I have resolved now.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> I also wish to inform my readers that now I am a registered migration agent. You can view the details of my registration by clicking on this </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="https://www.mara.gov.au/agent/ARDetails.aspx?ud=5286&BackToSearch=True&FolderID=394">link</a><span style="font-family: arial;">.</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> Junaid</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> Migration Agent Registration Number: </span><span style="font-family: arial;" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolderMainNoAjax_lblAgentID">0964018</span>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-35843862576579939672009-07-01T22:42:00.000-07:002009-07-01T22:46:48.585-07:00Changes to General Skilled Migration 2009-2010<div style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q1. What changes have been announced for the Skilled Migration program?</span><br /><br />The changes announced to the skilled migration program by the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship are:<br /><ul><li>The Government has decided to set the skilled migration program at 108 100 places</li><li>To increase the English language requirements for applicants nominating trade occupations</li><li>To increase the English language requirements for applicants applying for the provisional sponsored visas and claiming confessional competent English</li><li>To introduce a JobReady test.<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q2. Is the skilled migration program capped, and what does this mean?</span><br /><br />The skilled migration program is not capped. Capping means that a set number of visa grants are determined by the Minister for a particular visa category or categories. Once that number is reached no further visa grants can occur until the next program year.<br /><br />As the economic situation changes, the Government will review its measures to ensure that the program target and objectives are achieved.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q3. Why have these changes been introduced?</span><br /><br />Since the 1 January 2009 changes, the global economic situation has continued to deteriorate, and this has significantly impacted Australia’s economy, including an increase in unemployment. The migration program is one of the tools the Government uses to assist industry with skills and labour shortages, and, as such, is continually reviewed and assessed for its relevance and outcomes in light of the economic and social needs of Australia. The program is modified as these needs change.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q4. Have the priorities for the program year 2009-10 changed from the priorities of 2008-09?</span><br /><br />The Government advised in the May 2009 Budget Announcements that the current priorities for the processing of skilled migration applications will remain the same for the 2009-10 program years (1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010).<br /><br />On 1 January 2009, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship introduced changes to the skilled migration program including:<br /><br />• A new section 499 Ministerial Direction on priority processing<br />• The introduction of a Critical Skills List (CSL)<br />• Greater scope for state and territory governments to meet critical skills shortages in their jurisdiction<br /><br />This will ensure that employer-sponsored and government-sponsored visas continue to be fast-tracked. It means that the focus will continue to be on processing applications that are sponsored by an employer, nominated by a State or Territory government, and those with nominated occupations on the Critical Skills List.<br /><br />The Government may make further adjustments to the Skilled Migration Program this program year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q5. Why is the Government making it harder for skilled migrants to move to Australia?</span><br /><br />The Government acknowledges the substantial human and financial capital contribution that migrants bring to Australia. The extent to which migrants add to our economy is closely linked to their skills and abilities, and we will need a strong supply of skilled workers when the economic cycle turns and demand for labour picks up again.<br /><br />These measures will preserve the selection of high-skilled migrants and ensure that employer-sponsored and government-sponsored visas continue to be fast-tracked. It means that Australian employers are more effectively supported in the current economic climate.<br /><br />Although it may impact many applicants who will now have to wait longer for their visas to be processed, the Government must also take into account the effect the difficult labour market conditions migrants currently face. Also skilled migrants do not have access to most Government assistance for the first two years they are in Australia.<br /><br />It is expected that further changes may be made as the economic conditions continue to change, to ensure that the Migration Program remains responsive to labour market conditions.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q6. How long will it take to process my visa? What about visa processing service standards?</span><br /><br />The department is unable to estimate how long it will take to process visas, including those which have already been lodged. The visa processing standards relate to normal processing conditions and are only a guide for the majority of applications. They do not take into account the new priority processing measures which have been introduced as a result of the extraordinary economic situation Australia currently faces.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q7. Where do agents/clients enquire about specific cases?</span><br /><br />In the first instance, agents and clients should refer to the information available on the department’s website. This will provide detailed background information on the changes and possible implications.<br /><br />Where an agent or client’s question is not answered by the information available on the website, an enquiry may be directed to the pre-lodgement enquiry form if the visa application has not been lodged or the post-lodgement enquiry form if a visa has been lodged.<br /><br />Agents and clients may also contact the General Skilled Migration line:<br /><br />In Australia: 1300 364 613 for the cost of a local call Outside Australia: +61 1300 364 613 (charges applicable in your home country will apply)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q8. Where do I get information on general queries about the changes?</span><br /><br />General enquiries about the changes should be referred to the information available on the department’s website.<br /><br />Where more specific information is required, an enquiry may be directed to the pre-lodgment enquiry form if the visa application has not been lodged or the post-lodgment enquiry form if a visa has been lodged.<br /><br />Agents and clients may also contact the General Skilled Migration line:<br /><br />In Australia: 1300 364 613 for the cost of a local call<br />Outside Australia: +61 1300 364 613 (charges applicable in your home country will apply)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q9. What will happen to those applications which are in the final stages of processing and where the department has requested applicants to provide health and character clearances?</span><br /><br />The arrangements will apply to all visa applications, including those in the final stages of processing.<br /><br />As the economic situation changes, the Government will review its measures to ensure that the program target and objectives are achieved.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q10. What about applications outside the skill stream?</span><br /><br />These measures only affect the skill stream of the migration program.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q11. What are the changes to English language requirements for GSM visa applicants?</span><br /><br />There are two separate changes, Vocational English and Concessional competent English.<br /><br />• <span style="font-weight: bold;">Vocational English</span>:<br /><br />On 12 May 2009, the Minister announced an increase to a minimum of 6.0 (Competent English) in each of the four components of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test for all GSM applicants who nominate a trade occupation.<br /><br />This will remove the option for applicants with a trade occupation to claim Vocational English.<br /><br />This change applies to all offshore GSM visa applications (subclasses 175, 176 and 475) lodged from 1 July 2009.<br /><br />It will apply to all onshore GSM visa applications (subclasses 885, 886, 485 and 487) lodged from 1 January 2010.<br /><br />•<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Concessional competent English</span><br /><br />The English language requirements for provisional regional GSM visa applicants who claim Concessional Competent English will be raised from an average of 5.5 to an<br />average of 6.0.<br /><br />The change will apply to applications for the offshore Skilled – Regional Sponsored (Subclass 475) visa lodged from 1 July 2009.<br /><br />It will apply to applications for the onshore Skilled – Regional Sponsored (Subclass 487) visa lodged from 1 January 2010.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q12. Who will be affected by the changes to the English language requirements?</span><br /><br />The increased language requirements will apply to all new offshore GSM applications (subclasses 175, 176 and 475) lodged after 1 July 2009 with Australian Standard Classification of Occupations (ASCO) Level 4 nominated trade occupations, and those applying on the basis of meeting the Concessional Competent English requirement (subclass 475 only).<br /><br />The increased English language requirement for all onshore GSM applicants will apply from 1 January 2010.<br /><br />Applicants who have applied for a GSM visa before the dates these changes commence will not be affected.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q13. Are provisional regional visas affected?</span><br /><br />Vocational English is being removed from all GSM visas.<br /><br />Offshore GSM applicants will not be able to nominate vocational English from 1 July 2009. Onshore GSM applicants will not be able to nominate vocational English from 1 January 2010.<br /><br />This means that even those applicants who nominate a trade occupation will need to meet the requirements for either concessional competent or competent English. Note that concessional competent English is only available for those applicants sponsored under the conditions of either Subclass 475 or Subclass 487.<br /><br />Further information about all visa requirements is available on the department’s website.<br /><br />See: http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/visa-options.htm<br /><br />• Concessional competent English<br /><br />The change will affect applicants for the offshore Skilled – Regional Sponsored (Subclass 475) visa from 1 July 2009, and the onshore Skilled – Regional Sponsored (Subclass 487) visa from 1 January 2010.<br /><br />For the provisional GSM visa subclasses, the threshold English language standard will be raised from an average score of IELTS 5.5 to an average score of IELTS 6.0 for those applicants claiming concessional competent English.<br /><br />All new applications for the offshore Subclass 475 visa lodged from 1 July 2009 will be affected. The onshore Subclass 487 visa will be changed from 1 January 2010.<br /><br />In recognition of the increased language requirements, when the change is introduced for applicants for the Subclass 475 visa on 1 July 2009, they will not be required to enrol in an English language training course if they are claiming concessional competent English.<br /><br />From 1 January 2010, Subclass 487 applicants will not be required to enrol in an English language training course if they are claiming concessional competent English as is currently the requirement.<br /><br />Applicants who have applied for a GSM visa before the dates these changes commence will not be affected.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q14. Why is the English language requirement changing?</span><br /><br />The aim of the GSM Program is to select migrants who, because of the skills they possess, are more likely to find skilled employment shortly after they arrive in Australia. A high level of English language ability is recognised as being essential for achieving this objective.<br /><br />The 2006 Evaluation of the GSM Categories recommended that English language ability was an important determinant of skilled migration selection, and as a result, the threshold level of English language ability for GSM visa applicants was raised from vocational English to competent English when the new GSM visa structure came into effect on 1 September 2007. A higher level of English is required for certain occupations where it forms part of the skills assessment.<br /><br />Furthermore, in recognition of the importance of English language skills, since 1 September 2007, the GSM Points Test has been adjusted to award more points to applicants with very strong English language skills. Those applicants who demonstrate proficient English are awarded 25 points, while applicants who meet the English language threshold are awarded 15 points. The allocation of these extra points means that most applicants who achieve the higher English language standard will be eligible for a permanent GSM visa.<br /><br />Trade occupations were previously exempt from GSM changes introduced in September 2007. This increase in the threshold English language standard for trade occupations brings it into line with the standard that applies to other occupations under GSM.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q15. Will there be transitional arrangements for overseas students?</span><br /><br />There will be no transitional arrangements for overseas students enrolled in trade courses.<br /><br />Applicants who apply for a student visa to study a Certificate III trade course are expected to have an English language level of an IELTS 5.0 if they enrol in a preliminary 20 week ELICOS course, or 5.5 with no preliminary ELICOS course.<br /><br />Given that overseas students must have studied for a total of two years in Australia before being eligible to apply for GSM, it is reasonable to expect that most students should improve their English to IELTS 6.0 over this period.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q16. I am already in Australia on a subclass 457 visa. Do I still need to sit an IELTS test prior to lodging my skilled migration application?</span><br /><br />Yes, all applicants must have sat an IELTS test or an Occupational English Language test in the two years prior to the day the application is lodged.<br /><br />The only exception is British, American, Canadian, New Zealand or Republic of Ireland citizens who hold a valid, or current, passport and are considered to have ‘competent English’ without needing to provide an IELTS test.<br /><br />Competent English is equivalent to a score of at least 6.0 in each of the four (4) components of a single IELTS test. Please note that you can not combine the results of an IELTS test.<br /><br />Competent English is also equivalent to a score of at least ‘B’ in each of the four components of an Occupational English Language test.<br /><br />To meet the threshold English language requirement, the result must be from a test sat no more than two (2) years before the day the application was made.<br /><br />Please note that if you are unable to meet the Australian study requirement for onshore GSM visas, you will have to apply for an offshore GSM visa, even if you are already living in Australia.<br /><br />For further information about the English language requirement, you should refer to the Eligibility section of each GSM visa.<br /><br />See: http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/visa-options.htm<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q17. I did not sit an English language test when I lodged my application. Am I eligible for a refund?</span><br /><br />All GSM visas require that applicants have evidence that they meet the English language requirement at the time they lodge their application. The Subclass 487 visa allows applicants (except those eligible passport holders) to have booked an IELTS test and provide evidence of this at the time they lodge their visa. All other GSM applicants must have already sat their English language test and received their results before they lodge their application.<br /><br />Refunds are not given because applicants fail to meet a particular eligibility criterion.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q18. If I wish to claim partner points, will my partner also need to meet the increased English language requirement?</span><br /><br />The changes in English language points also apply to those wishing to claim partner points. This means that if you do not apply for an offshore GSM visa, you nor your partner will be able to claim vocational English. If you apply for an offshore regional Subclass 475 visa and your partner claims concessional competent English, they also must have an average of 6.0 across all four (4) components of the IELTS test.<br /><br />If you apply for an onshore GSM visa from 1 January 2010, neither you nor your partner will be able to claim vocational English. If you apply for an onshore regional Subclass 487 visa from 1 January 2010, and your partner claims concessional competent English, they also must have an average of 6.0 across all four (4) components of the IELTS test. JobReady Test<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q19. What is the JobReady test?</span><br /><br />The JobReady Test is a part of the assessment process to ensure that people who wish to migrate are able to participate in the labour market in the area of their skills and knowledge. The test is currently being developed by the Government in consultation with industry and unions.<br /><br />The test will initially be applied to trade occupations.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q20. Why do I have to do it?</span><br /><br />A key aim of the GSM program has traditionally been to achieve the migration of “job ready” applicants to supplement the labour market. Employers are looking for employees who are “job ready” and can hit the ground running.<br /><br />Job ready migrants are more likely to find employment quickly, which leads to improved settlement outcomes for migrants.<br /><br />The JobReady Test will also ensure consistency of skills and competency across migrants.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q21. I started my study this year and won’t finish until next year, will it affect me?</span><br /><br />If you apply for a GSM visa, other than the 485 or 887 visa, and your nominated occupation is a trade occupation, you will have to meet the JobReady requirement.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q22. When will JobReady Test become effective?</span><br /><br />The JobReady Test will come into effect from 1 January 2010. Applicants who nominate a trade occupation for migration purposes after this date will have to meet the JobReady Test requirement.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q23. Is the testing process for onshore applications the same as offshore applications?</span><br /><br />Yes. The test may vary from occupation to occupation and from one country to another. The Government may target particular cohorts and occupations from time to time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q24. Is the JobReady Test the same for all trade occupations?</span><br /><br />No, the test may take slightly different forms depending on the occupation, but could be applied to any trade occupation.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q25. How much will it cost?</span><br /><br />The cost is yet to be determined.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q26. Is there an expiry date for a JobReady test?</span><br /><br />This is yet to be determined.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q27. Will the JobReady Test be necessary for all trade occupations?</span><br /><br />The test will be targeted towards particular occupations from time to time.<br />Critical Skills List – 16 March 2009<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q28. What is the Critical Skills List (CSL)?</span><br /><br />The CSL contains occupations that have been identified as being in critical demand in Australia. As these occupations are in critical demand, applicants nominating these occupations will have their applications processed as a priority.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q29. Will there be changes to the CSL in the 2009-10 program years?</span><br /><br />There may be further changes this program year dependent on the impact of the global economic crisis on Australia.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q30. My nominated occupation was on the CSL, but has now been removed. What will happen to it now?</span><br /><br />Only those occupations which are currently on the CSL receive priority processing. If an occupation has been removed from the CSL, it no longer qualifies to be processed before other nominated occupations.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q31. I have nominated an occupation which is on the CSL. How am I affected?</span><br /><br />If your occupation is on the CSL, you will receive priority processing. This means that your visa application will be assessed after all the visas which are sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory government, and before other applications.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q32. My occupation is now on the CSL. What should I do?</span><br /><br />You do not need to do anything. The department identifies those applications which are now prioritized and will advise you when you are assigned a case officer.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q33. If I get a new skills assessment for an occupation listed on the Critical Skills List, will I then be eligible for priority processing? Can I change my nominated occupation?</span><br /><br />No, you cannot change your nominated occupation once you have lodged your visa application in order to access priority processing. If you have a new skills assessment and want to change your nominated occupation, you will need to lodge a new visa application with a new visa application charge (VAC). Please note that there is no capacity to transfer (VAC) payments to another GSM visa application. Also, the legislation allows only limited conditions under which refunds are granted.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q34. Can accountants who only have IELTS 6 and have not completed the Professional Year receive priority processing?</span><br /><br />Only accountants who have a minimum of 7 in each IELTS component or who have completed the Professional Year program under the sc485 visa qualify for priority processing under the CSL.<br /><br />This means that if you want to have your application given priority, you have the option of sitting the IELTS test and gaining a minimum of 7 in each component of the test.<br /><br />Accountants who hold a current British, American, Canadian, New Zealand or Republic of Ireland passport are considered to have ‘competent English’ and does not need to sit an IELTS test. To receive priority processing, accountants must demonstrate they have proficient English and so an IELTS result of a minimum of 7 in each component of the test should be provided for these applicants as well.<br /><br />Please note that the results must be from an IELTS test you sat no more than two (2) years before the day you made your application.<br /><br />Once you have received your ‘proficient English’ IELTS results, you should contact the department on the post-lodgement form to have your visa processed as a priority.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q35. I am an accountant with IELTS 6.0, can I still apply for GSM?</span><br /><br />If you are an accountant, you may apply for GSM with competent English (a minimum of 6.0 in each component of the IELTS test) but you will not receive priority processing unless you have also completed the Professional Year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q36. What will happen to priority processing with these changes to the migration program?</span><br /><br />The priority processing directions introduced by the Minister on 1 January 2009 are still in operation and will be applied to all skilled visa applications.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q37. What are the processing priorities?</span><br /><br />The priority processing direction gives priority processing to permanent applications in the following order:<br /><ol><li>Employer sponsorship</li><li>State or territory sponsorship</li><li>An occupation on the Critical Skills List (CSL)</li><li>An occupation on the MODL</li><li>All other applications.<br /></li></ol>The new priority processing direction gives priority processing to provisional applications in the following order:<br /><br />1. State or territory sponsorship<br /><br />2. Family sponsorship where the applicant’s occupation is listed on the CSL<br /><br />3. All other applications.<br /><br />As the economic situation changes, the Government will review its measures to ensure that the program target and objectives are achieved.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q38. Which applicants will receive priority processing?</span><br /><br />The priority processing Direction gives priority to applicants with employer sponsorship, state or territory nomination and those skilled migration applicants with an occupation on the CSL.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q39. What visa subclasses are exempt from priority processing?</span><br /><br />Visa subclasses 887, 485, 476 and 487 are exempt from priority processing. Applications in these visa subclasses will be processed in the order in which they are received.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q40. When the changes to priority processing were introduced?</span><br /><br />These changes came into effect on 1 January 2009.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q41. Why the changes to priority processing were introduced?</span><br /><br />The 2008 Budget significantly increased the skill stream of the migration program. However, since then, there has been a significant change in Australia’s economic circumstances as a result of the recent global economic crisis.<br /><br />This crisis has weakened the Australian economy. In response to these changes in circumstances, the Minister announced a more targeted approach to the skilled migration program, including priority processing of employer sponsored visa applications, state and regional nominated visa applications and the introduction of a CSL of occupations. The Budget on 12 May 2009 announced a reduction in the skilled migration program to 108 100 and an extension of the priority processing arrangements in response to the continuing economic crisis.<br /><br />People seeking to migrate to Australia who have skills or qualifications in one of the occupations on the current CSL are processed in a higher priority to those applicants who do not. This includes all applications that are on hand as well as any applications received in the future.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q41. Are these changes temporary or permanent?</span><br /><br />The skilled migration program is continually reviewed and assessed for its relevance and outcomes in light of the economic and social needs of Australia. The program is modified as these needs change.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q42. Is there any difference in processing between onshore and offshore programs?</span><br /><br />No, the priority processing affects onshore and offshore applications equally.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q43. What occupations or industries are affected?</span><br /><br />Occupations that are not included in the CSL will not be given priority processing unless applicants are sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory government.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q44. My application does not fall into one of the priority categories. When can I realistically expect to have my application finalized?</span><br /><br />The department is unable to estimate the processing time for GSM visa applications under the current arrangements. As the economic situation changes, the Government will review its measures to ensure that the program target and objectives are achieved.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q45. If my nominated occupation is not on the CSL. How can I have my application prioritized if my visa class (for example subclass 880, 881, 861, 862) does not allow me to get State or Territory sponsorship?</span><br /><br />To be eligible for priority processing, you will need to lodge a new General Skilled Migration application with State or Territory sponsorship, or, if you are eligible, apply for an Employer-Sponsored visa.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q46. Why medicals and police clearances are still required for subclass 885 and 886 applicants who do not have an occupation on the Critical Skills List or State or Territory government nomination?</span><br /><br />Under the Migration Regulations, you must provide evidence that you have applied for health and character clearances when you lodge an onshore GSM visa application.<br /><br />Visa applicants are required to undergo medical examinations in order to protect the Australian community from high health risks, costs, and overuse of scarce health resources. Similarly, to ensure that all visa applicants are of good character, police clearance certificates are required.<br /><br />The costs involved are necessary in order to maintain the integrity of the migration program and protect the Australian community. They are kept to a minimum where possible. You should not undertake to re-do any expired clearances until you are requested to do so by a case officer.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q47. I do not wish to wait indefinitely for my application to be processed. What can I do?</span><br /><br />The current arrangements change the order in which applications are processed and the length of time until a decision is reached on those applications which do not meet the new priorities. However, these changes have not affected the requirements for the grant of a visa, and simply replace the previous priority processes.<br /><br />If you wish to withdraw your application, you may do so. However, please note that the legislation allows only limited conditions under which refunds are granted. A Visa Application Charge (VAC) is usually only refunded when an application is deemed unnecessary or was made as a result of a mistake by either the applicant or the Department. Please note that the application must clearly have been mistakenly made. Situations where the applicant considers a ‘mistake’ was made because they changed their mind or they do not satisfy a criterion for visa grant are generally not covered by the refund provisions.<br /><br />However if you choose to withdraw your application in writing, it is open to you to seek a refund. Each application for refund is considered on its merits and the department is unable to give an indication of the outcome.<br /><br />Refunds are not granted if applicants choose to not proceed with their application because it will take longer to process than they expected.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q48. I paid for my visa to be processed. It is unfair the rules have changed now. Can I get compensation?</span><br /><br />No. DIAC will still process applications according to the criteria that applied at the time you lodged your application, but the processing times will be longer. Processing times have always varied depending on the complexity of the particular application and the processing priorities in place at the time.<br /><br />The visa application charge (VAC) is on a cost recovery basis and relates to the complexity of the criteria that need to be assessed for the grant of the visa. Only a case officer may determine the outcome of a visa application against the criteria in the migration legislation. Applicants are warned not to take any irreversible steps when they apply for a visa, as there are a number of criteria that must be met for applicants to be granted a visa.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q49. An employer has offered me a job in Australia. Will I get priority processing?</span><br /><br />The priority processing only applies to those who have an employer willing to formally sponsor them for migration, not simply a job offer. Applicants who are sponsored by an employer must apply for one of the employer sponsored scheme (ENS) visas.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q50. An employer has offered to sponsor me. What should I do?</span><br /><br />You will need to check your eligibility for an employer sponsored visa. The employer intending to sponsor you must also meet certain requirements.<br /><br />Applications for ENS visas will receive priority processing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q51. How can States and Territories nominate, or sponsor, GSM applicants?</span><br /><br />It is entirely at the discretion of States and Territories whether or not they choose to nominate migration visa applicants.<br /><br />States and Territories can nominate applicants who have an occupation on their skills shortage list. They may also sponsor up to 500 visa applicants and their families a year who do not have occupations on their state or territory list, on condition that the occupation is listed on the Skilled Occupations List (SOL). Applicants should approach the relevant state or territory agency directly to enquire about nomination processes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q52. How many people can states and territories bring in under the state and territory skills shortage list?</span><br /><br />The number of potential migrants which each state or territory can sponsor from their skills shortage list is unlimited, within the total skilled migration program’s ceiling of 108 100 people.<br /><br />In addition to their skills shortage list, each state and territory is also allocated a quota of 500 off-list nominations per program year from occupations on the SOL. This enables states and territories to respond effectively to unexpected skills shortages. While off-list nominations are available to state or territory governments, it is their decision which applicants and skills they choose to nominate.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q53. What is the state skills shortage list?</span><br /><br />Each State and Territory compiles its own skills shortage list. Each State or Territory can sponsor potential migrants with skills in an occupation included on their skills shortage list for a General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa. Applicants sponsored by a state or territory government for a permanent visa receive an additional 10 points on the GSM points test.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q54. Is there any restriction on the types of skills that States and Territories can bring in under the state skills shortage list?</span><br /><br />The only limitation is that all occupations nominated by states and territories must be listed on the SOL.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q55. Can the States and Territories bring in people with skills that are not on the CSL?</span><br /><br />Yes, States and Territories may sponsor applicants who have nominated an occupation which is on the SOL but is not on the CSL. They may use their 500 off-list nominations to sponsor other applicants.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q56. A State or Territory has agreed to nominate me. What do I do?</span><br /><br />You will need to provide your State or Territory nominator with your application reference details. Your nominator will then submit a nomination form on your behalf to the department. If the nomination is successful your application will then be eligible for priority processing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q57. If I have already lodged an independent skilled application, is there any way to change it to a State Sponsored visa?</span><br /><br />If you have lodged a Skilled – Independent (subclass 175) visa or a Skilled – Independent (subclass 885) visa, your visa can be assessed as a State Sponsored visa.<br /><br />To obtain a state or territory nomination, you should approach the state or territory you would like to live in and request they consider nominating you. Please note that state-sponsored migrants are expected to live for at least two (2) years in the state or territory which sponsors them.<br /><br />If you are accepted by a state or territory government, they will notify you and lodge the relevant nomination form directly with the department.<br /><br />You will also need to complete the post-lodgement form to let the department know that you have accepted a nomination and wish to have your application assessed under either the Skilled – Sponsored (subclass 176) visa or a Skilled – Sponsored (subclass 886) visa.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q58. How will these changes impact on international students?</span><br /><br />Australia has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality education and training. We continue to welcome overseas students, and appreciate the contribution they make to both academic life and the communities in which they live.<br /><br />There are no changes being proposed to the student visa program itself. The pathway from a student visa to General Skilled Migration (GSM) also remains in place. However, applying for a student visa and applying for GSM are separate processes. It is important to note that student visas are aimed at achieving an educational outcome. GSM on the other hand is predominantly driven by the labour market needs of Australia and the requirements for permanent residence can change.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q59. I am an international student; can I still apply for permanent residence?</span><br /><br />International students who were eligible for permanent residence before these changes will still be eligible for permanent residence.<br /><br />International students who have graduated from an Australian education provider and meet other necessary requirements will still be eligible to apply for permanent residence under the GSM program. Student visa holders will still need to meet the points test and basic eligibility requirements such as having the required level of English language proficiency and having completed a degree, diploma or trade qualification resulting from at least two academic years of study in Australia.<br /><br />While the requirements for GSM have not changed, Australia continually adjusts and reviews its migration program to ensure it meets changing needs and circumstances. Prospective permanent visa applicants should continue to monitor the website for changes.<br /><br />International students studying a trade qualification in Australia and intending to lodge an onshore GSM application should note that the English language requirements will change from 1 January 2010. From 1 January 2010, GSM applicants will not be able to claim vocational English (a minimum of 5.0 on each component of the IELTS test). From 1 January 2010 all GSM applicants will have to meet a minimum of competent English (a minimum of 6.0 on each component of the IELTS test).<br /><br />Note that this change applies from 1 July 2009 for offshore applicants. This means that applicants who apply for an offshore GSM visa from 1 July 2009 will not be able to claim vocational English and must meet a minimum of competent English.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q60. The course I am studying will not allow me to qualify for an occupation on the Critical Skills List (CSL), can I still apply for a permanent residence visa?</span><br /><br />These changes do not impact on the application requirements for GSM. The points test and requirements for GSM have not changed. Students studying in courses leading to 50- or 60-point occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) will still be eligible to apply for GSM. Students with 60-point occupations will also still be eligible for additional points on the points test if that occupation is listed on the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) and they have the necessary skilled work experience. The SOL and MODL have not changed.<br /><br />Eligible applicants with occupations not on the CSL will still be able to apply for GSM. However, their visa applications will not be processed as quickly. Those people nominating occupations on the CSL will be given processing priority.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q61. What visas other than skill stream visas can I access?</span><br /><br />International students holding a student visa can continue to apply for other temporary or permanent visas provided that they meet the necessary eligibility criteria.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q62. The course I am studying will not allow me to qualify for an occupation on the Critical Skills List - Can I enroll in another course?</span><br /><br />Students wishing to change course should firstly discuss with their education provider how this can be done. Those students who wish to change to a course in a different education sector may also need to apply for a Student visa of a different subclass and should contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q63. I am an education provider with students enrolled in a course that will not allow them to qualify for an occupation on the CSL and these students are now withdrawing their enrolment. Is the Government going to compensate me?</span><br /><br />No. The Government has not made any changes to international education or student visa policy. The occupations eligible for GSM have not changed. The changes will only impact on those students who apply for GSM on graduation. The change will mean faster visa processing for applicants with employer sponsorship or who are nominated by a State or Territory Government or who have an occupation on the CSL.<br /><br />The government changes GSM visa requirements in response to economic conditions and labour market needs. As such, the government makes no guarantees that courses delivered by education providers in response to students seeking a permanent migration outcome will continue to assist them in meeting this goal.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q64. What further changes are proposed for the student program?</span><br /><br />At this time, there are no changes proposed to the student visa program.<br /><br />Applying for a student visa and applying for GSM are separate processes. GSM requirements may be altered in future in response to changing economic circumstances.<br /><br />The Government is focused on shifting the outcome of the migration program to a more industry driven model where employer sponsored visas become a significant pathway to permanent residence. Further changes along this direction will potentially be made in the future.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q65. Do these changes affect my 457 application?</span><br /><br />No.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q66. Can I apply for General Skilled Migration while I hold a 457 Visa?</span><br /><br />Yes, you can apply for an offshore GSM visa in Australia as a holder of 457 visas as long as you meet the threshold requirements. However, as this is an offshore category visa, you must be outside Australia at the time of grant and you will not be eligible for a bridging visa.<br /><br />Source http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-skilled-migration/pdf/program-changes-faq.pdf<br /></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-36341592220530973952009-04-08T03:58:00.000-07:002009-04-08T04:04:15.136-07:00Changes to Australian Migration Program 2009<div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">In December 2008, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, announced a range of changes in response to the global economic crisis to ensure the 2008-09 skilled migration program was better targeted and more responsive to industry needs. These changes came into effect on 1 January 2009.<br /><br />The measures were introduced to ensure that the skilled stream of the migration program is driven by the needs of industry and targets skills in critical need across a number of sectors, particularly those skills in shortage and which contribute to the health of the economy.<br /><br />These changes included priority processing with preference to:<br /></div><ul style="font-family: arial;"><li>employer-sponsored permanent migration applications, where skilled migrants are sponsored to go into jobs unable to be filled locally.</li><li>applicants nominated by state and territory governments, who were also given greater scope to meet critical skill shortages in their jurisdiction; and</li><li>applicants who had nominated an occupation identified as in critical shortage.<br /></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">Since then, the global economic situation has continued to deteriorate, and this has significantly weakened Australia’s economic situation, including an increase in unemployment. The migration program is one of the tools the Government can use to assist industry with skills shortages, and, as such, is continually reviewed and assessed for its relevance and outcomes in light of the economic and social needs of Australia. The program is modified as these needs change. The Minister has announced additional measures to further assist in the management of the economy through targeting occupations in critical shortage. These include measures to manage the range of skills and number of people entering Australia with work rights.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">This will be achieved through managing the migration program down to a lower level than originally planned, and tighter targeting of program outcomes through the removal of certain trade occupations from the CSL. The new ceiling for the 2008-09 skills stream of the migration program is 115 000 places.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">This combination of measures is a balanced response to the changes in global economic circumstances and the corresponding effects in Australia. These changes in strategy in no way diminish the significance of our immigration system as a tool for supporting Australia’s future economic and social development.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">These measures allow skilled migrants who are sponsored by an employer for a specific job in Australia, are sponsored by a State or Territory government, or have skills in critical need to be given priority for the remainder of 2008-09 program year within the lower program ceiling.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">It is important to note that even in times of economic downturn, migrants can contribute at least as much to our labour force and economy as they take from it, as they bring substantial human and financial capital. The degree to which migrants add to our economy is closely linked to their skills and abilities. Also, Australia may need a strong supply of overseas skilled workers in different economic circumstances and migration is still an effective means of securing a labour force as a balance to our ageing population. These measures will preserve the selection of high-skilled migrants but reduce the emphasis on migrants and temporary entrants who compete with Australians in the job market where skills are not in critical demand.<br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >The Critical Skills List (CSL)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">The CSL only applies to people who are seeking to migrate under the skilled migration program and who are not sponsored by an employer or nominated by a state or territory government. The following outlines key information about this CSL:<br /></div><br /><ul style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;"><li>it includes mainly information technology professionals, engineers and medical professionals</li><li>the CSL is a smaller list of occupations developed in consultation with state and territory governments</li><li>applications from people nominating the occupation of Accountant will receive processing priority only if they have completed the Skilled Migration Internship Program – Accounting (SMIPA); and/or they have demonstrated that they have proficient English language skills under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS 7) in the past two (2) years</li><li>this list will be subject to ongoing review to ensure that it remains responsive to skill demands.</li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Greater scope to meet critical skill shortages in state/territory jurisdictions</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;">This change will provide state and territory governments with greater scope to meet critical skill shortages in their jurisdiction. Under previous arrangements, state and territory governments could nominate applicants against a restricted range of occupations, in areas where they considered a skills shortage existed in their jurisdiction:<br /></div><br /><ul style="font-family: arial;"><li>states and territories have been provided with an expanded baseline list of occupations which will be reviewed regularly.</li><li>in addition, state and territory governments have been offered a quota of 500 places in 2008-09 to nominate skilled migrants in occupations beyond their existing lists of eligible occupations.</li></ul>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-61723742481259138282009-04-07T04:49:00.001-07:002009-04-07T05:09:01.637-07:00The Age rule. Points for 29 years and 3 months old<div style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Just wanted to make a clarification regarding the points system for age.</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">Previously I had misinformed some of my blog readers that you can only be awarded 25 points once you reach the age of 29 years. However, the information I gave is incorrect.</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">You can still get 30 points for age even if you are 29 years and 3 months old OR 29 years and 11 months old. However, once you become 29 years and 365 days old, you become 30 years old and then you will get 25 points for age instead of 30 points.</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">I hope this valuable information helps every one.</span></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-38065423813564685572009-01-20T08:39:00.000-08:002009-04-08T04:04:42.144-07:00FAQS: Changes to Australian Migration Program 2009<span style="font-weight: bold;">Q1 What changes have been announced for the Skilled Migration program?</span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />The changes announced to the skilled migration program by the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship are:<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">a new section 499 ministerial direction on priority processing</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">the introduction of a critical skills list (CSL)</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">greater scope for state and territory governments to meet critical skills shortages in their jurisdiction.</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q2 What applicants will receive priority processing?</span><br /><br />The new priority processing Direction gives priority to applications with employer sponsorship, state or territory sponsorship, business skills and those with an occupation on the CSL.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q3 When will these changes be introduced?</span><br /><br />These changes will be effective from 1 January 2009.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q4 Why have these changes been introduced?</span><br /><br />In the 2008 Budget, the skill stream of the migration program for 2008-09 was significantly increased to 133 500 places as part of the Government’s strategy to counter the risk of increased inflation due to pressure on the growth of wages. However, since the 2008 Budget, there has been a significant change in Australia’s economic circumstances as a result of the recent global financial crisis.<br /><br />This crisis has weakened the Australian economy, as reflected in the recent Mid Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO) forecasts. In response to these changes in circumstances, the minister has announced a more targeted approach to the 2008-09 skilled migration program. This announcement includes priority processing of employer sponsored, state and regional sponsored and business skills visas and the introduction of a CSL of occupations. People seeking to migrate to Australia who have skills or qualifications in one of the occupations on the CSL will be processed in a higher priority to those applicants who do not. This will include all applications that are on hand at the time of the announcement as well as any applications received in the future.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q5 Are these changes temporary or permanent?</span><br /><br />The skilled migration program is continually reviewed and assessed for its relevance and outcomes in light of the economic and social needs of Australia. The program is modified as these needs change.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q6 Will the program be capped, either officially or unofficially?<br /><br /></span>If the processing of priority categories does not consume all of the department’s processing resources, there are a number of legislative based tools available to the minister to manage the skilled application pipeline, if necessary, including suspension of processing or capping the number of visas to be issued.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q7 Is there any difference in processing between onshore and offshore programs?<br /><br /></span>No, the new priority processing will affect onshore and offshore applications equally.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q8 What occupations or industries are being affected?<br /><br /></span>Occupations that are not included in the CSL will not be given priority processing unless applicants are sponsored by an employer or sponsored or nominated by a state or territory government.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q9 How can states and territories sponsor people?<br /><br /></span>States and territories can sponsor people who have an occupation on their state skills shortage list and they may also sponsor up to 500 people a year who do not have occupations on their state list. Applicants should directly approach the state or territory in which they wish to live to enquire about sponsorship.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q10 How many people can states and territories bring in under the state and territory skills shortage list?</span><br /><br />The number of potential migrants which each state or territory can sponsor from their skills shortage list is unlimited, barring the total skilled migration program’s ceiling being reached. However, each state and territory is allocated a quota of 500 off-list nominations per program year from occupations included on the Skilled Occupations List (SOL) but not on the state’s skills shortage list. These off-list nominations are in addition to the nominations from the state skills shortage list.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q11 What is the state skills shortage list?</span><br /><br />Each state compiles its own skills shortage list. Each state or territory can sponsor potential migrants with skills in an occupation included on their skills shortage list for a GSM visa. Applicants sponsored by a state or territory government receive an additional 10 points on the GSM points test.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q12 Is there any restriction on the types of skills that states and territories can bring in under the state skills shortage list?<br /><br /></span>The state skills shortage lists identify occupations believed to be in shortage in each jurisdiction. The only limitation is that occupations included on the state skills shortage lists must also be listed on the GSM SOL.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q13 Can the states and territories bring in people with skills that are not on the CSL?<br /></span><br />Yes, states and territories may sponsor applicants who have nominated an occupation which is on the SOL but is not on the CSL. They may use their 500 off-list nominations to sponsor other applicants.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q14 What is happening to the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL)?</span><br /><br />There have been no changes to the points allocated for MODL. The MODL will be reviewed as necessary to determine any changes required for its continued use for skilled migration purposes. Under the section 499 direction, general skilled migration applicants who nominate an occupation from the MODL will receive priority processing after those applicants who nominate an occupation from the CSL and those applicants sponsored or nominated by a state or territory government.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q15 When will the review of the MODL be undertaken?<br /><br /></span>It is expected that the review of the MODL will be undertaken in early 2009.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q16 What subclasses have been affected by this announcement?<br /><br /></span>The introduction of the CSL and the changes to the processing priorities will affect applications for most GSM subclasses, including those lodged after 1 January 2009 and those already lodged but not yet granted. Applicants for subclasses 485 and 887 will not be affected by this change.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q17 How many grants were made in 2007-08 for skills that are now on the CSL?<br /><br /></span>During program year 2007-08, there were 23 424 grants made to all subclasses for occupations that are now on the CSL.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q18 Where do agents/clients enquire about specific cases?<br /><br /></span>In the first instance, agents and clients should refer to the information available on the department’s website. This will provide valuable background information on the changes and possible implications.<br /><br />Where an agent or client’s question is not answered by the information available on the website, they can contact the<br /><br />General Skilled Migration line on:<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">1300 364 613 (in Australia) for the cost of a local call</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">+61 1300 364 613 (outside Australia) (Charges applicable in your home country will apply.)</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q19 What is the feedback mechanism for general queries about the change?<br /><br /></span>General enquiries about the changes should be referred to the information available on the department’s website. Where more specific information is required, clients can contact the General Skilled Migration line on:<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">1300 364 613 (in Australia) for the cost of a local call</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">+61 1300 364 613 (outside Australia) (Charges applicable in your home country will apply.)</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q20 Has something like this happened before?<br /><br /></span>In 1997, the department introduced priority processing in the partner migration program. In that instance, applicants sponsored by an Australian citizen with children were given priority. The MODL is updated periodically, based on DEEWR labour market research, to meet the changing skill shortages in Australia.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q21 What is the processing priority going to be now?</span><br /><br />The new priority processing direction gives priority processing to permanent applications in the following order:<br /><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">employer sponsorship</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">state or territory sponsorship</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">an occupation on the CSL</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">an occupation on the MODL</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">and then all other applications.</span><br /></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;">The new priority processing direction gives priority processing to provisional applications in the following order:<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">state or territory sponsorship</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">family sponsorship where the applicant’s occupation is listed on the CSL</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">and then all other applications.</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q22 What will happen to those applications which are in the final stages of processing and where the department has requested applicants to provide health and character clearances?</span><br /><br />Those applications which are currently close to being finalised, will be finalised by the department, subject to health and character clearances.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q1 How will these changes impact on international students?</span><br /><br />Australia has a well-deserved reputation for high-quality education and training. We continue to welcome overseas students, and appreciate the contribution they make to both academic life and the communities in which they live. There are no changes being proposed to the student visa program itself. The pathway from a student visa to GSM also remains in place. However, applying for a student visa and applying for General Skilled Migration (GSM) are separate processes. It is important to note that student visas are aimed at achieving an educational outcome. GSM on the other hand is predominantly driven by the labour market needs of Australia.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q2 I am an international student, can I still apply for permanent residence?</span><br /><br />International students who were eligible for permanent residence before these changes will still be eligible for permanent residence. International students who have graduated from an Australian education provider and meet other necessary requirements will still be eligible to apply for permanent residence under the GSM program. Student visa holders will still need to meet the points test and basic eligibility requirements such as having the required level of English language proficiency and having completed a degree, diploma or trade qualification resulting from at least two academic years of study in Australia.<br /><br />While the requirements for GSM have not changed, Australia continually adjusts and reviews its migration program to ensure it meets changing needs and circumstances. Prospective permanent visa applicants should continue to monitor the website for changes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q3 The course I am studying will not allow me to qualify for an occupation on the Critical Skills List (CSL), can I still apply for a permanent residence visa?</span><br /><br />These changes do not impact on the application requirements for GSM. The points test and requirements for General Skilled Migration have not changed. Students studying in courses leading to 50- or 60-point occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) will still be eligible to apply for GSM. Students with 60-point occupations will also still be eligible for additional points on the points test if that occupation is listed on the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL). The SOL and MODL have not changed. Eligible applicants with occupations not on the CSL will still be able to apply for GSM. However, their visa applications will not be processed as quickly. Those people nominating occupations on the CSL will be given processing priority.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q4 What visas other than skill stream visas can I access?</span><br /><br />International students holding a student visa can continue to apply for other temporary or permanent visas provided that they meet the necessary eligibility criteria.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q5 The course I am studying will not allow me to qualify for an occupation on the Critical Skills List - Can I enrol in another course?</span><br /><br />Students wishing to change course should firstly discuss with their education provider how this can be done. Those students who wish to change to a course in a different education sector may also need to apply for a Student visa of a different subclass and should contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q6 I am an education provider with students enrolled in a course that will not allow them to qualify for an occupation on the CSL and these students are now withdrawing their enrolment. Is the Government going to compensate me?</span><br /><br />No. The Government has not made any changes to international education or student visa policy. There is no reason why a provider cannot continue to offer the same courses. The occupations eligible for GSM have not changed. The changes will only impact on those students who apply for GSM on graduation. The change will mean faster visa processing for applicants with a job offer or who are sponsored by a State or Territory Government or who have an occupation on the CSL.The government changes GSM visa requirements in response to economic conditions and labour market needs. As such, the government makes no guarantees that courses delivered by education providers in response to students seeking a permanent migration outcome will continue to assist them in meeting this goal.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q7 What further changes are proposed for the student program?<br /><br /></span>At this time, there are no changes proposed to the student visa program. Applying for a student visa and applying for General Skilled Migration (GSM) are separate processes. GSM requirements may be altered in future in response to changing economic circumstances. The Government is focused on shifting the outcome of the migration program to a more industry driven model where employer sponsored visas become a significant pathway to permanent residence. Further changes along this direction will potentially be made in the future.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q1 Do these changes affect my 457 application?<br /><br /></span>No.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Q2 Can I apply for GSM while I hold a 457 Visa?</span><br /><br />Yes, you can apply for an offshore GSM visa in Australia as a holder of 457 visa as long as you meet the threshold requirements. However, as this is an offshore category visa, you must be outside Australia at the time of grant and you will not be eligible for a bridging visa.<br /></span></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-52122891457613406362009-01-17T01:52:00.000-08:002009-01-17T02:06:11.955-08:00Australian Migration program changes in 2009<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Australian migration program for the second half of 2008-09 has changed so that skilled migrants who have a confirmed job, or have skills in critical need will be given priority for a permanent visa to come to Australia.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, said the changes, effective from 1 January, will ensure that the Skilled Migration program is driven by the requirements of industry and targets skills in critical need across a number of sectors.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This will ensure our migration program is more responsive to the needs of the economy and assists industries still experiencing skills shortages,' Senator Evans said.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The new measures from 1 January 2009 include:<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1. Prioritising and improving the processing of sponsored permanent migration visas, where skilled migrants are nominated by employers for jobs that cannot be filled locally;<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2. Providing State and Territory Governments greater scope to address the critical skill needs in their jurisdiction. This reflects the different economies and skills requirements across States and Territories;<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3. Giving priority to people who apply without a sponsor where they have an occupation on a list of skills in critical shortage;<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4. Retaining the existing 133 500 planning target as a cap, with the actual number of visas granted to be kept under review by the Government for the remainder of the 2008-09 year.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">'In light of the changing economic circumstances, the Rudd Government has reviewed the Skilled Migration program and consulted business and industry along with state and territory governments Australia-wide about their skills needs'.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">'To meet immediate skills needs, the government will fast-track the processing of sponsored permanent migration visas, where skilled migrants are nominated by employers for jobs that cannot be filled locally.'<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">'This could see employer sponsored visas occupying an increasing share of the skilled program, with 36 000 visas likely in the current year,' the minister said.'<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Senator Evans said about 80 per cent of employer-sponsored visas are granted to people who were already living and working in Australia on temporary visas. Fast-tracking the grant of these visas will provide greater certainty to employers and increase the number of visas granted onshore.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Where a person has applied to migrate to Australia without an employer sponsor, they will be given priority if they have an occupation on a list of skills in critical shortage.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The list of skills in critical shortage are mainly in the medical and key IT professionals, engineers and construction trades. The occupations on the critical skills list are the ones most frequently sought by employers through sponsorship.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">There was a delay in processing 10 000 applications from engineers, medical professionals and other skilled migrants. Previously, they may have had to wait more than a year before being considered.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Fast-tracking professionals on the critical skills list will ensure that the economy gets the skills it needs now, not just those applicants who applied first,' Senator Evans said.'<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The government has also given state and territory governments' greater scope to address the critical skill needs in their jurisdiction. This reflects the different economies that have developed across the country.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It is hoped that the 2008-09 skilled migration program will be better in delivering the skills needed in the economy. There will also be an increase in the number of visas granted to those already in Australia and currently in jobs.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The skilled migration program was significantly increased in the May Budget from 102 500 to 133 500 places to ease nationwide skills shortages.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Senator Evans said a report released earlier in the year by respected economic analyst Access Economics shows that new migrants to Australia deliver hundreds of millions of dollars to the Commonwealth budget and the broader economy every year.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In its Migrant Fiscal Impact Model: 2008 Update, Access Economics found that the fiscal benefits from taxation and visa charges far outweighed the costs that migrants impose on health, education, welfare, employment and settlement services.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">'The bottom line is that our migration program is vital to keep the economy growing as well as helping Australian businesses overcome skills shortages,' Senator Evans said.'</span></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;">Source: www.workpermit.com</span></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-74745735806378238262008-12-30T19:45:00.000-08:002009-02-02T02:36:04.718-08:00ASCO Codes and their meaning<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:medium;" class="Apple-style-span" >This post is for all those who are interested in applying for migration to Australia. The post explains how the Australian standard Classification of Occupations work and how a prospective migrant can use the ASCO codes to determine his/her suitability for a particular trade.<br /><br />Ok first of all what exactly is ASCO and ASCO codes?<br /><br />To be able to apply for immigration to Australia, you need to have some sort of skills which are required in Australia. The list of all such skills which are in demand in Australia are listed on a Skilled Occupation List, SOL which can be accessed by visiting the URL<br /><br />If you open the SOL, you will see that there are dozens of professions listed in the SOL. All the professions listed on the SOL are in demand in Australia. Against each profession there is an ASCO code assigned.<br /><br />The ASCO code of the profession defines the profession and it is the definition of the ASCO which matters while determining the skills of a person. For example I was once contacted by a person who was a high school teacher of Biology. He wanted to apply for immigration by nominating the profession of Biologist. Now according to him he was a biologist but according to the ASCO classification he is a high school teacher and not a biologist.<br /><br />Similarly in another incident, a pharmacist applied for immigration by nominating the profession of Pharmaceutical sales representative. The person was not aware that according to the ASCO classification, he is a pharmacist and not a Pharmaceutical sales representative.<br /><br />Hence, it is of utmost importance that before you apply for immigration and nominate a profession, you should be 100% sure that you are nominating the correct profession. Other wise your application will be simply rejected on the basis that you do not have expertise in the nominated profession.<br /><br /><br />Now the question is how can a person check whether his expertise are in accordance with the classifications of the ASCO codes. While trying to figure out the answer, I finally found an online copy of the complete ASCO codes and the definition of each and every code.<br /><br />The copy can be accessed at the following weblink<br /><br /></span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/Previousproducts/1220.0Contents11997?opendocument&tabname=Summary&prodno=1220.0&issue=1997&num=&view="><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">ASCO Codes</span></a><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:medium;" class="Apple-style-span" ><br /><br />So if you are not sure whether your skills and work experience fall into a particular category then simply visit the URL above and check the classification.<br /><br />Kind Regards</span><br /></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-39775347925304236252008-12-16T03:36:00.000-08:002009-05-22T19:20:48.119-07:00Hiring Migration agents<div style="text-align: justify; font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">I have received a few queries regarding benefits of applying through a migration lawyer. Why should a person apply for immigration through a migration agent/lawyer when much of what an agent does can also be done by the applicant too? After all the agent does is to fill in the forms, send the application to DIAC and be the primary correspondent for all communications.</span></span></div></div></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">This is some thing the applicant can also do. So why hire a migration agent and pay large amounts of fees?</span></span><br /></div></div></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Well the above reasoning is very well justified. However, the real role of a qualified agent comes into play when the DIAC raises an objection which the applicant didn't fore see while lodging the application.</span></span><br /></div></div></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">For example I have just received an email where an applicant applied for visa subclass 175 and on the date of application he didn't have a valid IELTS results. Although the applicant had appeared in the IELTS exam a few days before he lodged the application, he didnt have the results as yet.<br /><br />In the opinion of the applicant, there was nothing wrong with lodging the application and he would provide the IELTS results to DIAC when the results are delcared.</span></span><br /></blockquote></div></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">What the applicant didnt know is that from Sept 2007, any person who lodges a GSM application must have a valid IELTS result on the date of application.</span></span><br /></blockquote></div></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">So according to the law, the application should be rejected on grounds of not fulfilling the criteria at the time of lodging the application and the applicant would incur a loss of $2000 AUD not to forget the waste of time.</span></span><br /></blockquote></div></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">So how can a qualified lawyer solve this issue? First of all, if the person had first consulted an agent, the agent would have informed him of the proper way of lodging the application. Secondly an agent knows the intricacies of the migration law and fully understands how the legal framework of the migration law. As a last resort a migration agent can apply for special consideration by invoking ministerial intervention.</span></span><br /></blockquote></div></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">This is just one of the many mistakes applicants make while lodging applications.</span></span><br /></div></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">A good migration agent just doesnt fill in forms and serves as a PO Box service. A good migration agent can save you lots of time and hassle if not money.<br /><br /></span></span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">So if you are well versed in the migration law, then there is no need to hire a migration agent. However, if you are not sure what you are doing, then its better to hire a migration agent.<br /><br /></span></span></div></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 3px; width: auto; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:100%;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Hope this helps</span></span></div></div></span></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-73766656664345060192008-11-16T10:04:00.000-08:002008-11-16T10:08:07.759-08:00Accepting cases from now onwards<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Times New Roman';"><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This post is for any one who would like to hire my services for filing a visa application with the department of immigration. I am accepting cases for skilled migration, spouse visas, student visas, contributory parent visa and state sponsorship visas. Readers interested in hiring my services can contact me.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">With great pleasure, I would like to inform my readers that I have entered into a partnership agreement with Australia's most professional and qualified migration agent, Dr Arun Garg, director </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.auslead.com">Auslead International</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Dr Garg is MARA certified agent with RMAN number 9794416. Readers interested in hiring our services can contact me for an initial consultation.</span></div></div></span></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-1193226455385877662008-10-30T08:29:00.000-07:002008-12-30T19:59:35.897-08:00Immigration for Medical practitioners: Doctors and Nurses<div style="text-align: justify;">This post is for those doctors and nurses who are interested in obtaining visa 457.<br /><br />Australia is suffering from a drought of doctors and nurses. The demand for qualified medical practitioners has sky rocketed during the last few years.<br /><br />Overseas doctors trained doctors and nurses who are interested in working in Australia can either apply for permanent migration by applying for 175 visa(Please see my post for overseas immigration) or obtain a sponsorship from an employer who is willing to sponsor and get a temporary 457 visa which is a three years work permit.<br /><br />The following websites of each the health departments of each state territory of Australia lists jobs which are open for medical practitioners.<br /><br /><br />NSW: <a href="http://www7.health.nsw.gov.au/healthjobs/Default.cfm?ID=1233" target="_blank">http://www7.health.nsw.gov.au/<wbr>healthjobs/Default.cfm?ID=1233</a><br /><br />VIC: <a href="http://www.health.vic.gov.au/jobs/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.health.vic.gov.au/<wbr>jobs/index.htm</a><br /><br />SA: <a href="http://www.health.sa.gov.au/Default.aspx?tabid=93" target="_blank">http://www.health.sa.gov.au/<wbr>Default.aspx?tabid=93</a><br /><br />WA: <a href="http://www.osrecruitment.health.wa.gov.au/" target="_blank">http://www.osrecruitment.<wbr>health.wa.gov.au/</a><br /><br />QLD: <a href="http://www.health.qld.gov.au/jobs/default.asp" target="_blank">http://www.health.qld.gov.au/<wbr>jobs/default.asp</a><br /><br />TAS: <a href="http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/careers" target="_blank">http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/<wbr>careers</a><br /><br />NT: <a href="http://www.health.nt.gov.au/Careers/index.aspx" target="_blank">http://www.health.nt.gov.au/<wbr>Careers/index.aspx</a><br /><br />The process of obtaining a 457 visa is long, specially for doctors and nurses as it requires obtaining approval from state territory boards as well.<br /><br />The first step is to get an employer interested in you. Get a letter of offer and kick start the process.<br /><br />Apart from the above mentioned websites, DoctorConnect is also a very good website to start with.<br /><br /><br />DoctorConnect <a href="http://www.doctorconnect.gov.au/">http://www.doctorconnect.gov.au/</a><br /><br /></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-52907120523274521062008-10-26T07:32:00.000-07:002009-01-20T23:26:54.692-08:00Immigration departments of states and territories<div><br /></div><div><div>Here is a list of websites of the immigration departments of Australia's various states and territories.</div><div><br /></div><div>Victoria: <a href="http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/ViewPage.action">http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/ViewPage.action</a></div><div><br /></div><div>South Australia: <a href="http://www.immigration.sa.gov.au/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://www.immigration.sa.gov.au/</span></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Western Australia: <a href="http://www.migration.wa.gov.au/">http://www.migration.wa.gov.au/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Queensland: <a href="http://www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/content.cfm?id=4044">http://www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/content.cfm?id=4044</a></div><div><br /></div><div>NSW: <a href="http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/migration/state_independent_migration.asp">http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/migration/state_independent_migration.asp</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Northern Territory: <a href="http://www.migration.nt.gov.au/">http://www.migration.nt.gov.au/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Tasmania: <a href="http://www.development.tas.gov.au/migration/skilledmigration.html">http://www.development.tas.gov.au/migration/skilledmigration.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>ACT: <a href="http://www.act.gov.au/CAP/accesspoint?action=menuHome">http://www.act.gov.au/CAP/accesspoint?action=menuHome</a></div><div><br /></div><div>The skills in demand in each of the state can be found by visiting the immigration departments websites of the respective states.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kind Regards</div></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-18273118143889837842008-10-26T07:07:00.000-07:002008-11-16T06:56:40.337-08:00Difference between 176 and 475<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; "><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family:arial;font-size:13px;"><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">This article is for those who are interested in applying for 176, 886, 475 or 487 visas. Normally people who cannot achieve the pass mark for 885 or 175 visas apply for the above mentioned visas.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">Those applying for offshore immigration (applying from outside Australia) often ask the question<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">"What is the difference between visa 176 and 475?"</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">A similar question is asked by those who apply for onshore immigration (applying while inside Australia) </div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">"What is the difference between 886 and 487?"</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">Searching for the answer, I stumbled upon this link by the Victorian government.</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><a href="http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/ViewPage.action?siteNodeId=1441&languageId=1&contentId=-1">http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/ViewPage.action?siteNodeId=1441&languageId=1&contentId=-1</a><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">As obvious from the link, every state maintains two types of occupational lists. One list is for 176 visas and one is for 475 visas. 475 visas are mostly regional visas away from Metropolitan centres of the state.</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">So if your occupation is present on the 475 list of a state, then you can only apply for 475 visa. If your occupation is listed on the 176 list of a state then you can only apply for 176 visa.</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">Please note that 475 is a temporary 3 years work visa where as 176 is a permanent visa. Both of them require 100 points to qualify.</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">Here is a list of state/territories offshore 176 and 475 visas. The same applies for onshore 886 and 487 visas.</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family:arial;font-size:13px;"><blockquote style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 40px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; ">Victoria 176 list<br /><a href="http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/digitalAssets/1377_Skilled%20Sponsored%20176%20Eligibility%20List.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.<wbr>gov.au/digitalAssets/1377_<wbr>Skilled%20Sponsored%20176%<wbr>20Eligibility%20List.pdf</a><br /><br />Victoria 475 list<br /><a href="http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au/digitalAssets/1365_Skilled%20Regional%20Sponsored%20Eligibility%20list%20.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.liveinvictoria.vic.<wbr>gov.au/digitalAssets/1365_<wbr>Skilled%20Regional%<wbr>20Sponsored%20Eligibility%<wbr>20list%20.pdf</a><br /><br />WA 176 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.migration.wa.gov.au/media/documents/priority-skills-list.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.migration.wa.gov.<wbr>au/media/documents/priority-<wbr>skills-list.pdf</a><br /><br />WA 475 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.migration.wa.gov.au/media/documents/skills-in-demand-list.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.migration.wa.gov.<wbr>au/media/documents/skills-in-<wbr>demand-list.pdf</a><br /><br />QLD 176 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/content.cfm?id=3709" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.workliveplay.qld.<wbr>gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/<wbr>content.cfm?id=3709</a><br /><br />QLD 475 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.workliveplay.qld.gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/content.cfm?id=3710" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.workliveplay.qld.<wbr>gov.au/dsdweb/v4/apps/web/<wbr>content.cfm?id=3710</a><br /><br />NSW 176 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/migration/state_independent_migration.asp" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.business.nsw.gov.<wbr>au/migration/state_<wbr>independent_migration.asp</a><br /><br />NSW 475 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.business.nsw.gov.au/migration/pdfdocuments/Skills_In_Demand.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.business.nsw.gov.<wbr>au/migration/pdfdocuments/<wbr>Skills_In_Demand.pdf</a><br /><br />NT 176 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.migration.nt.gov.au/documents/STNI_Shortage_List.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.migration.nt.gov.<wbr>au/documents/STNI_Shortage_<wbr>List.pdf</a><br /><br />NT 475 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.deet.nt.gov.au/employment/workforce_nt/docs/nt_occupation_shortage_list.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.deet.nt.gov.au/<wbr>employment/workforce_nt/docs/<wbr>nt_occupation_shortage_list.<wbr>pdf</a><br /><br />TAS 176 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.development.tas.gov.au/migration/Skilled%20Sponsored%20visa%20list%2022-7-08.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.development.tas.<wbr>gov.au/migration/Skilled%<wbr>20Sponsored%20visa%20list%<wbr>2022-7-08.pdf</a><br /><br />TAS 475 visa list<br /><a href="http://www.development.tas.gov.au/migration/Skilled%20Regional%20Sponsored%20Visa%20List%2022-7-08.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.development.tas.<wbr>gov.au/migration/Skilled%<wbr>20Regional%20Sponsored%20Visa%<wbr>20List%2022-7-08.pdf</a><br /></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span> SA 176 Visa<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span> <a href="http://www.immigration.sa.gov.au/pdfs/gsm/OccupationList_Permanent.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.immigration.sa.gov.<wbr>au/pdfs/gsm/OccupationList_<wbr>Permanent.pdf</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span> SA 475 Visa<br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span> <a href="http://www.immigration.sa.gov.au/pdfs/gsm/OccupationList_Provisional.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 204); ">http://www.immigration.sa.gov.<wbr>au/pdfs/gsm/OccupationList_<wbr>Provisional.pdf</a><br /></div><div><br /></div></span></div></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family:arial;font-size:13px;"></span></div></span></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-37487371649215119602008-10-26T02:11:00.000-07:002008-10-26T02:12:42.370-07:00Making a complaint to the Immigration department<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; "><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><div>If you have lodged an application for a visa and have not received any response, then the first point of contact would be to send them a notice through the following weblink.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 14px; ">http://feedback.immi.gov.au/prod/feedback.htm</span></div></div></span></div>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-75875166705611223142008-10-24T16:46:00.000-07:002008-10-24T16:51:15.195-07:00Financial requirements for Student Visas<div style="text-align: justify;">If you are applying for a student visa; the following people can be in the list provides sources of funds and people who are acceptable as financial guarantors.<br /><br /></div> <h2 style="text-align: justify; font-weight: normal;">Acceptable sources of income</h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">The money to support you and your family members must come from one or more acceptable sources, which may include:</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>a money deposit with a financial institution that has been held for at least six consecutive months immediately before the date of your visa application by <ul><li>you</li><li>your spouse</li><li>your brother or sister</li><li>your parents</li><li>your grandparents</li><li>your aunt or uncle (only if they usually live in Australia and are either a citizen/permanent resident of Australia or an eligible New Zealand citizen)</li></ul> </li><li>a loan from a financial institution made to (and in the name of) <ul><li>you</li><li>your spouse</li><li>your brother or sister</li><li>your parents</li><li>your grandparents</li><li>your aunt or uncle (only if they usually live in Australia and are either a citizen/permanent resident of Australia or an eligible New Zealand citizen)</li></ul> </li><li>a loan from the government of your home country</li><li>your proposed education provider</li><li>the Australian Government or an Australian State or Territory government</li><li>the government of a foreign country</li><li>a provincial or state government of a foreign country that has the written support of the national government of the foreign country</li><li>an organisation gazetted by the Minister</li><li>an acceptable non-profit organisation</li><li>a multilateral agency.<br /><strong>Examples:</strong> United Nations, World Bank or Asian Development Bank</li></ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Note:</strong> Non-cash assets such as property and shares are not acceptable sources of income. However, non-cash assets may be liquidated or used as collateral on a loan, if they are provided by an acceptable source.</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><a id="d" name="d"></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">Providing evidence of money deposits or loans</span></h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">You need to show evidence of how the money to fund your studies was accumulated.</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">If your source of income is a money deposit held in a bank account, you must provide the following evidence:</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>pay slips</li><li>bank loan documents</li><li>interest from investments.</li></ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">If your source of income is a loan, you must provide the following evidence:</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>a bank statement showing the amount of available credit</li><li>a statement from the holder of the loan that its purpose is to support your studies.</li></ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Note:</strong> If your source of income is a home loan with a redraw facility from an Australian financial institution, the funds from the redraw facility may be considered a loan. A home loan with a redraw facility from a non-Australian financial institution <strong>may</strong> be acceptable, but must be considered on a case-by-case basis.</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><a id="e" name="e"></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">Financial support from a non-profit organisation</span></h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">A non-profit organisation providing you with financial support must be lawfully established and operating in Australia or overseas.</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">You must show evidence of the organisation's non-profit status, including:</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>statement from the Australian Taxation Office showing organisation's status</li><li>documents of incorporation as a non-profit organisation.</li></ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">You must also show evidence that the organisation has sufficient funds or income to support you financially. Evidence may include:</p> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><li>bank statements</li><li>financial statements.</li></ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><a id="f" name="f"></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">Supporting family members when studying for less than 12 months</span></h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you are applying to study in Australia for less than 12 months, your family members are <strong>not</strong> eligible to come with you to Australia. However, you <strong>must</strong> show that you have enough funds to support your family members in your home country, taking into consideration the standard cost of living in that country.</p>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8499243768832871563.post-88046683377980488862008-10-22T20:09:00.000-07:002008-10-22T20:15:51.771-07:00List of eligible sponsors for 886 and 176<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; "><div style="text-align: justify; ">If you are applying for visa subclass 176 or 886 and you want to be sponsored by a relative.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">You need to know the list of eligible relatives who can sponsor you.</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Who can be a sponsor?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">To sponsor a skilled worker you must be at least 18 years of age and usually resident in Australia as one of the following:<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">an Australian citizen<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">an Australian permanent resident<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">an Eligible New Zealand citizen.</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">You, your spouse or your interdependent partner must be related to your sponsor as one of the following:<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">a non-dependent child – including an adoptive or step-child<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">a parent – including adoptive or step–parent<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">a brother or sister – including adoptive or step-siblings<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">a niece or nephew – including adoptive or step–niece or nephew<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">an aunt or uncle – including adoptive or step–aunt or uncle<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Where can a sponsor be living?</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify; ">Your sponsor can live anywhere in Australia.</div></span>Junaid Noorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14952811793361022532noreply@blogger.com11