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3 Different Visa Pathways For Migration To Australia

3 Different Visa Pathways For Migration To Australia

holiday to Australia

Australia is a country that has long depended on talents from outside its borders to boost its workforce and bolster its economy to what it is now today. But with the advent of the pandemic last year and their swift response of establishing self-isolation measures, such influx of skilled immigrants consequently dropped sharply.

However, in preparation for its eventual reopening, it continued to accept visa applications from those interested in working or living in the country permanently.

If you are one of such people and are keen on migrating to Australia from Singapore, here are three of the different visa pathways that you can apply for today to make it happen.

Family-stream permanent residence visas

The main prerequisite of this visa stream is that the applicant must have a direct relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident of Australia, or ENZ (Eligible New Zealand) citizen. The following visas will solely focus on migration pathways that do not require sponsorships from an established familial relationship (i.e. parents) with any of the above personnel.

  • Partner Visas

Partners of Australian citizens, permanent residents of Australia, and ENZ citizens can apply for a partner visa and immigrate into the country so long as they fall under one of the partner classifications observed by the Australian immigration law:

  1. Fiancé(e)s
    2.Married partners
    3. De facto partners, which includes same-sex marriages

Applicants must first hold the Temporary Partner visa (Subclass 820) prior to progressing to the Permanent Partner visa (Subclass 801). To apply, applicants must first prepare their prerequisite documents found on the Subclass 820/801 Document Checklist and lodge their application either online, via post, or in person and pay the corresponding fee.

The Department of Home Affairs will then process the request and, once approved, applicants can then proceed to live and work in Australia.

  • Prospective Marriage Partner Visa

Applicants engaged to Australian citizens, permanent residents of Australia, and ENZ citizens can be sponsored by their partner living in Australia with a Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 130). Upon entry into the country, applicants who hold this visa must complete their marriage within nine months.

It is important to note that this visa classifies as a nonimmigrant, temporary visa and holders do not immediately receive permanent Australian resident status. To become a permanent resident, they must first marry their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or ENZ citizen partner and then apply for the Partner Visa above.

Work-stream permanent residence visas

Individuals who possess the skills or talent that the Australian government is looking for can apply for permanent visas to live and work within the country. These visas include:

  • Skilled Independent Work Visa (Subclass 189)

Foreign-nationals who hold occupations listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupations List are eligible to apply for this visa that lets them work and live in the country as a permanent resident. Applicants interested in this visa must first complete the following steps:

Step 1: Verify if their profession can fill a role in the occupations list

Step 2: Qualify for the required eligibility requirements

These requirements include being:

  • Under 50 years of age
  • Basic English communication skills
  • Passing health requirements
  • Passing character requirements
  • No outstanding debts to the Australian government
  • Willing to sign the Australian Values Statement

Step 3: Complete a Skills Assessment

Completion of the Skills Assessment and a passing score is necessary to progress in the application.

Step 4: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect

The SkillSelect program will ask applicants a series of questions regarding their skills, background, and relevant work history. The submitted EOI will become available for viewing by Australian authorities and employers looking to hire people they need.

After obtaining a nomination or sponsor and the applicant’s EOI meets the visa requirements, they will be invited to apply for the Subclass 189 visa.

Step 5: Await an employer sponsor or government nomination

The Subclass 189 visa requires applicants to be sponsored by employers or nominated by state or territory governments within Australia.

If there no employers are looking to sponsor an applicant, the latter party may be able to find one themselves via the SkillSelect program – a system that matches them to potential employers looking for their specific skill set.

Step 6: Have the sponsor complete the paperwork

After accepting an invitation, applicants must let their sponsor nominate them for their visa.

Step 7: Apply for the Skilled Independent Work Visa and await the decision

Once applicants secure an employer and a nomination, they can then proceed to apply for the visa online via the DHA. Once filed, applicants just need to wait for a decision.

Step 8: Acquire the visa and begin working in Australia

Upon receiving their visa, applicants can now proceed to migrate and work in the country.

  • Skilled Nominated Work Visa (Subclass 190)

The subclass 190 visa enjoys the same benefits as the subclass 189 visa, albeit with slight differences regarding sponsorships. In this type of visa, applicants can only be accepted and nominated by state or territory governments in Australia and not by private employers.

The steps to apply are also similar save for step 5, wherein applicants must wait for government authorities to nominate and send them a letter of invitation to apply for the visa.

  • Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186) and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Visa (Subclass 187)

Foreign-national workers have the opportunity to work and live as  permanent residents in Australia with the Subclass 186 and Subclass 187 visas. The only difference between these visas is their geographical scope, wherein latter applicants can only be nominated by approved employers for a job within regional Australia.

These visas require applicants to pass certain skills test put forth by said employers and secure their nominations. The steps to apply for Employer Nomination Scheme and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visas are:

Step 1: Meet all the prerequisite requirements to work in Australia

Applicants must meet both subclass 186/187 requirements and the specific requirements under the stream they are applying for, namely:

  • The Temporary Residence Transition stream
  • The Agreement stream
  • The Direct Entry stream

Step 2: Have the employer lodge the nomination

Before applicants can submit their application for the subclass 186/187 stream, they must first wait for their employer to lodge a nomination with them with the DHA. Upon approval of the nomination, applicants must submit their application in less than six months.

Step 3: Prepare the necessary documentation and submit the application online

Applicants must have all the documents listed in the Subclass 186/187 Document Checklist prior to submitting their application for proof of the claims made.

Step 4: Wait for the decision and receive your visa upon approval

It generally takes several months for the DHA to process and make a decision on a visa application. However, once approved, applicants can then receive their visas and continue working in the country.

  • Provisional Residency Visa (Subclass 491)

Currently, this visa is given a high level of priority now for Skilled Migration. Approved applicants under this visa will get to stay in Australia for a duration of 5 years, and be able to live, study, and work within a designated regional area of Australia. The visa allows successful applicants travel to and from Australia whenever they desire as long as the visa is still valid.

Similarly, one may also choose to apply for permanent residence once the 3-year mark has been after the visa has been granted.

Step 1: Via SkillSelect, submit an expression of interest (EOI)

After which, you must strive to score sufficient points for a state or territory government to be nominated for the visa and receive an invite for the visa application.

Step 2: Prepare the relevant documents to support the claims you have made in your EOI, as well as other visa requirements

The various documents include identity documents, relationship documents, character documents, competent English documents, partner documents, skills assessment documents, dependants over 18 documents, EOI documents, sponsor documents, and nomination documents.

Be mindful of the documents’ accuracy in information, and ensure they’re completely translated to English and are ready in colour.

Step 3: Prior to receiving the invitation, proceed to apply for the visa

Through SkillSelect, you can make apply for the visa by logging or creating an ImmiAccount. This must be done within 60 days from the date of invitation. After doing so, proceed to attach the necessary documents and make payment for the first visa application charge.

Step 4: Await the visa application results

During this period, the visa application will be processed and be pending approval. If required, additional information like biometrics or health examinations may be requested – if so, proceed to prepare the relevant documents.

A successful visa will mean that you will receive your official visa grant number, the date when the visa begins, and visa conditions – if applicable.

Business or investment-stream permanent residence visas

Professionals possessing the business acumen to bolster the Australian economy can apply for either of the following business visas:

  • Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa (Subclass 188)

Applicants who wish to work and live in Australia with a permanent Business Innovation and Investment visa (Subclass 888) must first secure its provisional version by getting nominated by either state or territory governments or Australian agencies.

Those who qualify for this visa can then establish and manage new or existing business ventures within the country. The following are the steps to apply for the Subclass 188 visa:

Step 1: Meet the requirements

Applicants must pass both the general visa and specific requirements of the stream they are applying for. The 188 visa allows for the following streams:

  • Business Innovation Stream
  • Investor Stream
  • Significant Investor Stream

Step 2: Submit an EOI and get invited via SkillSelect to apply

Applicants must first submit their EOI and let state or territory governments review their business claims before being granted a nomination. After getting nominated, they can then submit their application for the 188 visa through SkillSelect within 60 days.

Nomination requirements and business and employment details will vary for each state, so it is recommended to check their websites ahead of time.

Step 3: Prepare the necessary documentation and submit the application online

Applicants must have all the documents listed in the Subclass 188 Document Checklist prior to submitting their application for proof of the claims made.

Step 4: Wait for the decision and receive your visa upon approval

It generally takes several months for the DHA to process and make a decision on a visa application. However, once approved, applicants can then receive their visa and continue working in the country.

  • Business Talent (Permanent) visa (Subclass 132)

The subclass 132 permanent visa allows certain foreign-national businessmen to live and establish a new business venture or expand an existing one within Australia. This visa type shares many similarities, such as the application steps and process, with the previous one, but has two distinct differences, the first of which is the additional requirements.

Applicants must have minimum personal assets, net business, and annual business turnover, or a minimum in venture capital funding. The second is the streams under which one can apply for, either the Significant Business Stream or Venture capital Entrepreneur Stream.

Conclusion

For those interested in migrating to Australia on their own, it is good to know that there are plenty of ways to secure permanent residency, whether by qualifying for jobs in demand in Australia, marital relationships, or a keen eye for business.

At NTRUST, immigrating to Australia from Singapore is made easier and more hassle-free as the logistics and details, such as your visa application, are taken care of for you. Get started with your Australia PR application today and discuss your eligibility criteria by reaching out to us at +65 6299 0245 for more information.

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Jobs In Demand For Skilled Migrants In Australia 2021

Jobs In Demand For Skilled Migrants In Australia 2021

Doctors and Nurses Skilled Migration

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed job markets all over the world. As certain industries lag behind and suffer the brunt of the pandemic, other sectors have seen increased demand for new staff to support a shortage of labour.

In light of such changes, the Australian government has decided to welcome new skilled migrants by updating migration policies to support the country’s current workforce.

If you are wondering how to migrate to Australia from Singapore, here are four industries and sectors in Australia that are currently recovering and seeking out skilled migrant workers.

1. Healthcare

The pandemic has seen surges in demand for medical staff all around the globe, and Australia is no exception.

The well-being and safety of healthcare workers are of utmost priority, but reducing working hours has proven to be a tremendously difficult task due to the shortage of workers. It is estimated that by 2025, at least 100,000 new nurses will be needed to support the system and its increased demand.

As expected, healthcare workers have reported increased levels of stress and burnout during the pandemic. The Royal Melbourne Hospital conducted a poll, and over 61% of 10,000 Australian healthcare workers reported experiencing feelings of heightened anxiety. 58% of the respondents also shared feelings of burnout during the pandemic.

Delving deeper, in actuality, there are many other reasons why policymakers are looking for ways to alleviate the strain on the current healthcare system. Poor employee morale will also impact patient care and the quality of service, so more registered nurses and other medical staff are welcomed with open arms to immigrate and support the current system.

Some other positions with heightened demand include disabled and aged carers, as Australia faces the problem of an ageing population and stagnant birth rates.

2. The tech industry

Tech is a booming industry worldwide, and it has grown in importance during the pandemic as companies move online. Aside from telecommunication platforms, eCommerce and even payroll software have proven to be of massive benefit as companies transition to a digital-first environment.

Similarly, Australia expects high future demand for employees in the tech industry, and software developers are especially sought after. Some specific fields include user experience and full-stack development. ICT security specialists and project managers are also in demand.

Even without a shortage of skilled technical staff, Australia seeks to accommodate future growth and demand by attracting more migrants in the present to join the tech industry. For example, Victoria’s Skilled Migration Programme specifically targets individuals who have experience in the STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) sector.

3. Remote jobs

Australia has seen sharp increments in online shopping. In December 2020, online shopping increased by over 55% compared to December 2019. Additionally, more than 5.6 million Australian households transitioned to e-commerce for groceries and other needs, with a record of 21.3% growth compared to 2019.

With high demands for such services, it is no surprise that e-commerce specialists, such as warehouse operators and inventory managers, are needed to support the growth of the industry. These jobs are not only necessary to support the e-commerce industry but are also extremely popular for their remote working conditions.

As society begins to treat remote working as the norm, such jobs will also experience increased demand and value.

4. with transferable skills

COVID-19 has seen levels of volatility and uncertainty spike in unprecedented conditions. As it becomes increasingly difficult to predict the economy’s direction and ensure its stability, the next best way to secure a job would be to possess transferable skills that allow seamless transitioning between industries.

Transferable skills come in all forms; they can either be soft or hard skills. Otherwise speaking, they can also refer to technical skills which are needed for specific industries. Required baseline skills in a wide variety of industries include people management and supply chain management.

Some jobs that showcase transferable skills include construction workers and teachers. The former includes mathematical literacy and project management, while teachers display experience in multi-tasking and coordination.

Conclusion

With careful curation and organisation of your applications and resume, finding a job in Australia will be less difficult than you expect. Look out for these job openings as you make the switch overseas, and remember that migration is still a possibility during the COVID-19 pandemic!

Let NTRUST improve your chances of a successful job application. With a wealth of experience and success in helping thousands of applicants successfully immigrate to Australia from Singapore, you do not have to worry about complex paperwork or unsuccessful applications. Contact us at +65 6299 0245 and we will assist you in a seamless and efficient application process.

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Australia Faces Population Slump But Migration Will Return

Australia Faces Population Slump But Migration Will Return

Businessman in Australia

Australia has always been regarded as one of the most migrant-friendly countries in the world, whether in regards to its work culture or cost of living. In 2018, over 29% of the country’s population were born overseas.

However, the country has seen dramatic changes in migration policies in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which poses severe threats to health and safety as well as the dreaded economic downturn.

But fret not; all hope is not lost if you want to immigrate to Australia from Singapore. The government’s recent budget review has reflected a focus on migration policies to attract skilled labourers and travellers. Here are four things to take note of.

  1. Federal budget undergoes a review

When Australian politician and treasurer of the Library Party Josh Frydenberg unveiled the federal budget in May, there was a heavy emphasis on the change in population growth.

The budget covered a wide range of topics, such as the likelihood of remaining in a budget deficit over the next 40 years to come. Frydenberg also assumed that all Australians would be vaccinated against the coronavirus by the end of 2021.

The Treasury report highlighted population growth as a key concern. An ageing population poses many problems for the economy. Aside from a smaller workforce, the working population would also shoulder a larger burden when caring for the elderly. It is estimated that by 2060, less than three working adults would be working for every Australian over 65.

Hence, a review of migration policies is necessary to ensure continued population growth and prevent an ageing population. At the same time, medical advice will steer the government in the right direction when deciding on border policies.

Frydenberg emphasised that public safety will affect economic recovery, so following medical and scientific advice will protect both the current population and the economy in the long run.

  1. Dramatic change in the composition of population growth

Beyond worries about an ageing population, the Morrison government also faces the challenge of low fertility rates.

Historically, migration was the main driver of Australia’s population growth. However, according to a report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, this trend has changed dramatically since the onset of the pandemic. Local births accounted for 98 per cent of population growth in 2020.

The reason behind this dramatic change lies in the shifts in migration patterns. Birth and death rates have remained consistent without much variation, but international travel and immigrants from overseas fell sharply. In 2019, the net migration rate was 6.157 per 1000 members of the population, and it fell by 8% to 5.665 per 1000 in 2021.

Population growth is necessary for an economy to sustain continued growth and account for an ageing population. The government’s reliance on migration as a continued driver of economic growth will encourage the development of new migration policies to develop the economy and Australia’s society.

  1. Travellers are kept away, but not for long

The Morrison government rejected the concept of a “fortress Australia”.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison corrected current assumptions about Australia’s COVID-19 suppression strategy, and he claimed that there was no “elimination strategy” or goal for “zero cases”.

He also acknowledged that the return of Australians from abroad will always pose the risk of COVID-19 cases. However, international borders would have to close to prevent a severe outbreak until it is “safe” to reopen them.

It is already difficult for Australians to return home. Currently, the limited number of weekly arrivals has caused prices to shoot up. To return from London to Sydney, a one-way flight in economy class already costs as much as $28,000. Travellers will definitely not be able to enter the country as of now, but the Morrison government promises changes in both travel and immigration programmes.

The risk of COVID-19 and poor growth prospects require a careful balancing act. As the government aims to keep transmission rates low for the rest of the year, they are also looking to reopen the borders in the following year. Migrants will soon return via a “generous, sustainable immigration programme”, and Australia will continue to be an “open, tolerant, diverse country”.

  1. The hospitality sector has been hit especially hard

The government has also expressed concerns about the hospitality sector, which has been hit especially hard due to its high reliance on migrant workers, who often come for temporary periods on working visas.

From experienced chefs to international students working as part-time staff, the closed borders have revealed the importance of migrants in the hospitality sector.

In the middle of May 2021, there were over 46,000 job openings in the hospitality sector. Other sectors such as finance and engineering are also experiencing a massive shortage of skilled applicants.

To combat this, the government expanded the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List to include over 20 new positions in these sectors, with calls for engineers, chefs, and auditors.

Conclusion

As regulations are reviewed in line with the severity of the pandemic, Australia will once again welcome migrants to protect the country’s economic and population growth. If you intend to migrate in the near future, continue to work on your application and upskill yourself to ride upon this new wave of employment opportunities.

Moving to Australia from Singapore does not have to be an intimidating process. Let NTRUST assist you with our experience and familiarity with the various application processes. While we do assist in Work visa applications, we also offer services for Family Migration and Business Migration visas. Whichever visa application you’re looking towards, we’re here to help. To get started, simply contact us at +65 6299 0245 to learn more.

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NTRUST’s Corporate Position: Addressing The Covid Situation

NTURST's Corporate Position: Addressing The Covid Situation

covid situation in Australia

Globally, the future remains uncertain with regards to the developing health situation. The virus mutates, scientists try to catch up as governments struggle to contain and manage pandemic. Against a backdrop of uncontrollable factors, what will you do to protect and safeguard your future and lifestyle?

Compared with other countries, most of Australia has dealt with the COVID-19 relatively well. Millions of Australians continue to enjoy the same life as it was before the pandemic but not because Australians are more resilient against the diseases, more hygienic, or that their leaders or health authorities better able to cope with the global pandemic. Quite simply, Australians are blessed to live in a big country with excellent, well-spaced out infrastructure. Most Australians live in large homes and travel in their own private transport; yes, it is very unusual for an Australian family not to have at least 1 family car.

Crowded cities are where the diseases are always going to wreak the most havoc. Unfortunately, there are 3 small parts of Australia that continue to struggle to contain the pandemic. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are unnecessarily overcrowded and this is due, in no small part, to immigration. However, Australia is much bigger than these three overcrowded cities, and whilst they struggle with the challenges of containing the Delta variant, much of the country has been presently flourishing and shall continue to live out socially distanced lifestyles.

A quick check on Google review will show NTRUST to be the most reputable Australian immigration service provider in Singapore. Since 2003, we have assisted thousands of families in moving to Australia from Singapore. In improving our client’s lives through immigration, we have consistently recommended settling into designated areas as migrants within these regions are able to enjoy equally good prospects of an improved lifestyle, work-life balance, quality education, and healthcare.

You don’t have to immediately make a move after a successful Australia PR application. But knowing the demand for it and how long it would take before it is approved are both equally important, what are you doing now to protect you and your loved one’s future?

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Changes To BIIP Since June 2021: What To Watch Out For

Changes To Biip Since June 2021: What To Watch Out For

Man working on laptop in Australia

Since the advent of the COVID pandemic, countries worldwide have suffered due to its effects on their businesses, both big and small.

Australia is no exception, with its government being forced to close its borders to suppress the spread of the virus. Although having achieved its objective, this course of action did not come without repercussions, with the primary one being the drastic fall of the country’s net overseas migration during the 2020-2021 FY.

Given how essential it is for talented individuals and investors to migrate to Australia from Singapore and other countries for the nation’s economy, relevant authorities have deemed it necessary to further maximise the economic contribution of the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) in an effort to boost the country’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

With new changes now in effect reflecting this move, get in the know about the latest amendments to the program since June 2021.

Simplification of Subclass 188 Streams

The nine streams available in the BIIP (Subclass 188) visa shall be simplified and cut down to four (Entrepreneur, Business Innovation, Investor, and Significant Investor).

This means that the other streams, namely, Significant Business History, Significant Investor Extension, Business Innovation Extension, Premium Investor, and Venture Capital Entrepreneur streams, shall no longer be open to new applicants effective 1 July 2021. Additional changes also include a substantial increase of 11.3% in application charges for the remaining visas.

With these changes, the focus is fixated on bringing in higher value investors, business owners, and entrepreneurs ‘of scale’ to Australia for the purpose of heightening the economic return of the BIIP.

However, those who have applied prior to the effective date can still expect the Department to process their applications.

Extension of Subclass 188 Visas

All visa applications under the BIIP (Subclass 188) submitted on 1 July 2021 and onwards shall be granted five years instead of four, meaning holders will have more leeway to gather the requirements needed to transition into the Subclass 888 visa for permanent residency.

However, this change also comes with an amendment to the minimum time requirement in the eligibility of applying for the Subclass 888 visa from two years of Subclass 188 visa ownership to three years.

Significant Investor and Business Innovation Subclass 188 visa holders are still eligible for Subclass 188 Visa Extension

Although these two streams are already closed, their existing visa holders will still be eligible for an extension of up to two years in their visas in the event that they were unable to meet the residence and business thresholds within the initial period of their Subclass 188 visas. But to be eligible, they must fulfil the following requirements:

  • For Business Innovation (188A) visa holders: exhibit the means and will to commit to continuing to manage a business actively operating within Australia in the last two years.
  • For Significant Investor (188C) visa holders: demonstrate the ability to remain in compliance with their significant investment.

Business Innovation requirements increase

The requirements for the Business Innovation stream under BIIP Subclass 188 shall be increased effective 1 July 2021. The requirement changes are as follows:

  • Applicants must now possess business assets worth AUD 1.25 million instead of AUD 800,000
  • Applicants must now have an AUD 750,000 annual turnover instead of AUD 500,000 for a minimum of two out of the last four fiscal years

Scrapping of the Entrepreneur Stream AUD 200,000 funding

The Subclass 188 Entrepreneur stream’s original AUD 200,000 funding threshold requirement will be scrapped. Despite that, applications still require endorsement from a Territory or State government.

Conclusion

For those interested in migrating to Australia from Singapore, it pays to stay updated about current and future changes to BIIP. But since they are not always easy to understand without help, it is recommended to seek experts on the topic.

In such cases, NTRUST can step in as we know what exactly it takes to secure a successful visa application. In fact, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Check out our free Australia Immigration Webinar or simply get in touch with us directly at +65 6299 0245 to kick start your Australia PR application today, starting with discussing your eligibility with our resident consultants.