6 Common Questions Migration Agents in Australia Get Asked

There’s an endless amount of information out there regarding visas and migration. Some would say, 11 opinions for one question. At times that can cause some fear and confusion for those going through a visa application process.

In fact, the application processes themselves tend to change at times. So, when an applicant is seeking information regarding visas and migration, it is crucial they get the facts from the right sources, whether that be an official Government website or a licensed migration agent.

To help provide some information, today we are looking at six common questions our team at Modern Migration Australia get asked. The hope is that the answers to these questions will assist applicants with the information they are seeking.

1. Am I able to apply for a visa while in Australia?

Typically, in most cases the answer to this is yes. However, this is not always the case. Some visas do have restrictions that will prevent you applying for another visa or a specific type of visa in Australia. For this question we highly recommend talking to a migration agent, so you can discuss the specific circumstances.

2. What is the typical visa processing time?

This is a very common question and one that is unfortunately hard to answer. Australia’s visa processing times vary due to individual circumstances. This includes whether you have lodged a complete application, including all necessary supporting documents and how promptly you respond to any requests for additional information.

It also depends how long it takes to perform required checks on the supporting information provided and how long it takes to receive additional information from external agencies, particularly in relation to health, character, and national security requirements.

3. What is a permanent visa?

A permanent visa is a type of visa that allows you to remain in Australia forever. However, it’s very important to ensure that if you are outside of Australia, you apply to renew your Permanent Visa ‘travel component’ before it expires.

If you fail to do so, you won’t be able to re-enter Australia using your permanent visa.

4. Do all my documents need to be in English?

In short, yes. English translations for essential documents are required. Even when submitted to an Australian Embassy or consular mission in your own country. Essential documents will include such items as birth certificates, police clearances, residence cards and other selected items. We will advise you on what is needed and when it is needed.

5. Can I work in Australia?

Most visa holders, except visitor visas holders in Australia as tourists, are generally allowed to work in Australia. That said, limitations and restrictions may apply with your visa.

Each visa holder is responsible for checking the specific condition on their visa.

6. How much does a visa cost?

The cost of a visa is one of the most common questions we receive. It is also a question that is hard to answer, because each visa and each application is different.

The costs for Australian visa’s begin with the Departments’ Visa Application Charge. If you use a registered migration agent, there will also be service fee which will cover the migration specialist’s time and expertise used to prepare and submit the application for you.

There are some other costs. This could include medical tests, police clearances and translation.

In some cases subsequent temporary entrant visa application charges and secondary visa application charges for applicants without functional English.

7. What is a DAMA Agreement?

DAMA is an abbreviation for District Area Migration Agreement and are usually operational in Regional Areas. As a program they are based on the Subclass 482, 494 and 186 Visa Programs. This means you need an employer to sponsor or nominate you for a specific position.

Each DAMA has its own occupation list and specific English, Age, Work Experience and Skill Assessment requirements. Generally, these conditions are more flexible such as age which can be up to 55 years old. They also have there own Occupation Lists with many semi-skilled roles that are location specific.

If you’re an Employer, please contact us to find our more.

More Questions? – Call Us

At Modern Migration Australia, we understand that the application process is not an easy one, the reason we are so passionate about guiding our clients and offering the solutions that will best fit each case.

For more information regarding visas, applications and migration, contact us at Modern Migration Australia.

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