By RELOCATE SUPPORT
Moving to Australia
Step-by-step Immigration Guide
Moving to Australia
Making the decision to move to Australia is a significant step, driven by the allure of its natural wonders, breathtaking beaches, cosmopolitan cities, and diverse wildlife. Australia's outstanding quality of life, including factors like income, job opportunities, education, and environmental standards, has been attracting expats from around the world. With approximately 7 million expats from the EU and other countries, Australia has created multiple avenues for those looking to start a new life in the country.
Do I Need a Visa to Relocate to Australia?
If you're considering moving to Australia, you will need to secure a valid Australian visa. However, returning Australian citizens can re-enter the country without a visa. The specific visa you require will depend on the duration of your stay and your intended activities in Australia.
How Can I Relocate to Australia
Moving to Australia can be achieved through various means. Initially, you'll need to choose a long-stay visa and obtain a residence permit. Australia offers a range of visas to accommodate different relocation purposes, such as work or family reunification.
Relocating to Australia for Work
To relocate to Australia for work, you can apply for a suitable work visa as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. Many work visas lead to permanent residency, making them a convenient pathway to establish yourself in Australia. Some of the most popular work visas for permanent residency in Australia include:
- Subclass 887
- Subclass 189
- Subclass 191
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
- Regional Sponsored Migrant Scheme Visa (subclass 187)
- Employer Nominated Scheme (subclass 186)
- Global Talent Visa (subclass 858)
- Distinguished Talent Visa (subclass 124)
Relocating to Australia for Family Reunification
Australia offers over 30 visas for family reunification purposes, catering to various family situations. However, it's important to note that not all family visas lead to permanent residency. You'll need to select the one that aligns with your specific reason for moving to Australia.
Some of the visas that allow permanent residency include:
Some of the visas that allow permanent residency include:
- Partner Visa (migrant) - subclass 100
- Partner Visa - subclass 801
- Parent Visa - subclass 103
- Contributory Parent Visa - subclass 143
- Contributory Aged Parent Visas
- Remaining Relative Visa
- Aged Dependent Relative Visa
- Carer Visa
- Child Visa
- Adoption Visa - subclass 102
- Orphan Relative Visa - subclass 117, 837
Pros and Cons of Moving to Australia
Australia offers numerous advantages and some challenges:
1. High-Quality Healthcare: Australia's healthcare system is renowned for its excellence, offering safe and affordable healthcare for all residents and their families.
2. World-Class Education System: Australia's education system is internationally recognized for its quality, ranking 3rd in the world. Australian schools are among the finest globally, setting high standards for education.
3. Abundant Work Opportunities: Australia offers some of the highest average salaries globally, and with the right qualifications, you can quickly find employment despite a competitive job market.
4. Free Movement: As an Australian citizen, you gain the privilege of visa-free travel to 185 countries worldwide, facilitating international mobility.
5. Safety: Australia is generally considered a safe place to live. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are known for their security and low crime rates.
6. Diversity: The Australian population is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse in the world, contributing to a rich tapestry of backgrounds and traditions.
7. Favorable Climate: Australia enjoys long and sunny summers, making it an attractive destination for those who appreciate warm weather. While occasional weather unpredictability exists, most of the time, it's quite pleasant.
2. World-Class Education System: Australia's education system is internationally recognized for its quality, ranking 3rd in the world. Australian schools are among the finest globally, setting high standards for education.
3. Abundant Work Opportunities: Australia offers some of the highest average salaries globally, and with the right qualifications, you can quickly find employment despite a competitive job market.
4. Free Movement: As an Australian citizen, you gain the privilege of visa-free travel to 185 countries worldwide, facilitating international mobility.
5. Safety: Australia is generally considered a safe place to live. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are known for their security and low crime rates.
6. Diversity: The Australian population is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse in the world, contributing to a rich tapestry of backgrounds and traditions.
7. Favorable Climate: Australia enjoys long and sunny summers, making it an attractive destination for those who appreciate warm weather. While occasional weather unpredictability exists, most of the time, it's quite pleasant.
- Cost of Living: Australia can be expensive, with high costs for essentials, clothing, and transportation, particularly in major cities. The cost of living can vary depending on your location.
- Housing Costs: Housing can be expensive, especially in metropolitan areas or for properties with scenic views. Cheaper housing options are available in regional and rural areas.
- Wildlife: Australia is home to various wildlife, including potentially dangerous species like snakes, spiders, crocodiles, and sharks, which may be unsettling if you are easily frightened.
- Isolation: Due to its vast size, Australian cities are spread far apart, making it challenging to travel between towns for short trips.
Popular Expat Areas in Australia
Adelaide
Adelaide, located in the southern part of Australia, is a favored choice for expats moving to Australia with their families. The city offers a relaxed lifestyle with excellent transportation links, high-quality education, healthcare facilities, a pleasant climate, and a variety of residential options. Moreover, Adelaide provides diverse career opportunities across different industries, promoting both personal and professional growth.
Melbourne
Melbourne stands out as an ideal location for work, study, and living. Renowned as Australia's most livable city, Melbourne offers a range of public transport options, low crime rates, ample job prospects, top-tier education, and various accommodation choices catering to families, students, and couples. The city is celebrated as Australia's cultural capital, boasting a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from theaters and music festivals to street art and World Heritage Sites.
Brisbane
Brisbane is a cosmopolitan city celebrated for its river life, natural beauty, cultural attractions, and stunning beaches. It serves as an affordable alternative for those who appreciate the appeal of Sydney and Melbourne but seek a more budget-friendly option. Brisbane boasts a robust public transport system and offers green spaces for residents to enjoy the sunny Australian climate. Furthermore, it's home to the world's first and largest koala sanctuary, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Sydney
Sydney, one of Australia's most iconic cities, is a major hub for expatriates from around the world, making it the most populous city in the country. Sydney's cosmopolitan environment fosters cultural diversity and provides numerous job opportunities, with salaries typically exceeding the national average. The city's beautiful beaches, harbor, pleasant climate, and excellent facilities for education, healthcare, and public transportation add to its appeal. However, it's important to note that Sydney is one of the costliest cities in Australia.
Canberra
Canberra, Australia's capital city, stands out as one of the country's safest cities. It boasts a high average income, strong educational institutions, and a low unemployment rate. Despite its many advantages, living costs in Canberra are relatively lower than in cities like Melbourne. The city offers a high standard of living, making it a suitable choice for families and students. Canberra's well-planned infrastructure facilitates easy commuting by bicycle, car, or public transport, and it benefits from minimal traffic congestion and an efficient light rail system.
Bringing Your Pets to Australia
When relocating to Australia, you can transport your personal belongings by air, sea cargo, or international mail (post). These items may include clothing, furniture, appliances, sporting equipment, books, non-motorized caravans, boats, and aircraft. However, you must fulfill certain obligations, such as customs duty, goods and services tax (GST), and other applicable taxes and charges. Depending on your circumstances, you might be eligible for concessions that exempt you from some of these duties. For more information, you can visit the official website of the Australian Border Force.
FAQ
Can I Become a Permanent Resident of Australia With a Student Visa?
Can I Become a Permanent Resident of Australia With a Student Visa?
Unfortunately, a student visa does not lead to permanent residency in Australia. However, students can pursue permanent residency through other pathways, such as the permanent skilled work visa subclass 191 (as mentioned earlier).
Other Alternatives for Obtaining Permanent Residency in Australia
Other Alternatives for Obtaining Permanent Residency in Australia
Australia offers additional options for obtaining permanent residency, including business and investment visas:
- Business Innovation and Investment Visa - subclass 888
- Business Owner Visa - subclass 890
- Business Talent Visa - subclass 132
Moving Your Belongings to Australia
Moving Your Belongings to Australia
When relocating to Australia, you can transport your personal belongings by air, sea cargo, or international mail (post). These items may include clothing, furniture, appliances, sporting equipment, books, non-motorized caravans, boats, and aircraft. However, you must fulfill certain obligations, such as customs duty, goods and services tax (GST), and other applicable taxes and charges. Depending on your circumstances, you might be eligible for concessions that exempt you from some of these duties. For more information, you can visit the official website of the Australian Border Force.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Permanent Resident of Australia?
How Long Does It Take to Become a Permanent Resident of Australia?
To attain permanent residency in Australia, you must establish lawful residency for four consecutive years. However, you must meet specific requirements before becoming eligible for citizenship. Further information can be found on the official website of the Australian government.
Does Australia Allow Dual Citizenship?
Does Australia Allow Dual Citizenship?
Australia fortunately permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to maintain citizenship from one or more other countries while acquiring Australian citizenship.
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