Australia Visa Archives

Subclass 491 Visa: A Route to Skilled Migration in Australia

Jaspal Singh - 21 January 2025

The Subclass 491 Visa, also known as the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa, is designed for skilled workers and their families who wish to live, work, and study in select regional areas of Australia. This visa offers valuable pathways to permanent residency, making it an attractive option for those looking to build a future in Australia.

Key Features of the Subclass 491 Visa

The Subclass 491 Visa allows holders to reside in designated regional areas of Australia for up to five years. After three years of fulfilling certain criteria, visa holders may apply for permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.

Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Subclass 491 Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Nomination or Sponsorship:
- Nominated by a State or Territory Government or
- Sponsored by a family member who resides in a recognized regional area.

Recognized Regional Locations in Australia

The Subclass 491 Visa aims to encourage skilled migration to regional areas. Recognized locations include:

Perth
Adelaide
Canberra
Gold Coast
Hobart

Note: Major cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne do not fall under this category.

Points Allocation for Subclass 491 Visa

The Subclass 491 Visa employs a points-based system to evaluate applicants. Points are awarded based on various factors:

15 Points for nomination by a State or Territory government or sponsorship by a regional family member.
10 Points for having a skilled spouse or de facto partner.
10 Points for single applicants or applicants whose partners are Australian citizens or permanent residents.
5 Points if the partner demonstrates competent English and is not an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
10 Points for qualifications in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

The updated points system allows for increased opportunities to accumulate points in various categories, enhancing eligibility prospects.

Guidance on Obtaining an Invitation for the 491 Visa

To be invited to apply for the Subclass 491 Visa, candidates must typically meet specific criteria that may include:

Partner’s Qualifications: Points awarded based on the skills and English proficiency of a partner.
Individual Scores: The applicant’s overall score could be impacted depending on their partner’s situation.

Limitations on Visa Holders

Holders of the Subclass 491 Visa may face restrictions when applying for other visas under the General Skilled Migration scheme. Applicants must consider these limitations carefully when planning their migration pathway.

Your Pathway to Permanent Residency

The Subclass 491 Visa allows for a temporary stay and facilitates a route to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 Visa.

Eligibility for the Subclass 191 Visa:

To qualify:

Stay, study, or work in a designated regional area for three years while holding the 491 Visa.
Minimum income requirement: Maintain an annual income of $53,900 for three consecutive years.

What is the processing time for the 491 Visa?

The processing time for the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa can vary depending on several factors, including the volume of applications received, the complexity of individual cases, and whether additional information or documentation is required. As of the latest updates, most applications are processed within approximately 8 to 12 months. However, some applications may take longer if they need further assessment or if there are delays in obtaining necessary documents. It’s important for applicants to ensure that their applications are complete and to respond promptly to any requests from the Department of Home Affairs to help facilitate a smoother processing experience. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to check the official Department of Home Affairs website or consult with a registered migration agent.

Can Family members join on this Visa

es, family members can join you on a Subclass 491 visa, which is a skilled work regional visa in Australia. When you apply for this visa, you can include immediate family members, such as your partner and dependent children. They must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being of good character and health. It’s essential to provide supporting documents to demonstrate your relationship and their dependency on you. Additionally, family members can work and study in Australia while holding this visa, making it a great option for skilled individuals looking to settle in regional areas with their loved ones.

The Subclass 491 Visa provides a substantial opportunity for skilled workers seeking to contribute to Australia’s economy while enhancing their career prospects in a regional setting.

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Australian International Education: Concerns and Consequences of Visa Decline 2024

Jaspal Singh - 10 September 2024

Australia has long been a leading destination for international students, but 2024 has marked a significant shift in study visa grants. The latest data from Australia’s Department of Home Affairs reveals that study visa grants for offshore applicants have decreased by nearly a third (-29.1%) during the first four months of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. This drop comes on the heels of new, more restrictive migration policies, tightening visa requirements, and higher rejection rates.

A Drop of Nearly One-Third in Visa Approvals

From January to April 2024, 74,421 study visas were granted to offshore applicants, a steep decline from the 104,808 visas granted in the same period in 2023. This near-30% drop is significant but still less dramatic than the 53% decline during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Sectors like vocational education and training (VET) and the English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) have been particularly affected, with visa grants in these sectors dropping by 69% and 56%, respectively. These declines represent some of the lowest levels in over a decade.

Impact of New Migration Settings

The drop in visa approvals can be largely attributed to new migration policies introduced by the Australian government in December 2023. These policies include a higher minimum financial requirement for prospective students, a cap on international student enrollments starting in January 2025, and restrictions on students’ transitioning between visa categories. As a result, students now face stricter criteria to prove financial stability, demonstrate English proficiency, and pass the “Genuine Student Test.” These measures have contributed to the increasing rejection rates for offshore student visa applications.

Falling Approval Rates

In the first four months of 2024, the overall approval rate for offshore student visas fell to 77.4%, down from 80.5% in 2023. Historically, approval rates have averaged nearly 90% for offshore applicants from 2005 to 06 through 2023. For both the VET and ELICOS sectors, approval rates dropped to historically low levels of 37.8% and 74.8%, respectively. These numbers suggest that visa processing for these sectors has become significantly more stringent, likely because of the new policies and heightened scrutiny of applications.

The VET and ELICOS sectors have been disproportionately affected by the decline in visa grants. Together, they accounted for 61% of the total drop in offshore visa approvals from January to April 2024. The ELICOS sector, in particular, saw a dramatic decline in approval rates. For example, Colombian applicants experienced a sharp drop in ELICOS-only grants from 95% in 2023 to just 32% in the first two months of 2024, marking a historic low.

Concerns from the Education Sector

The decline in study visa grants has raised concerns among Australian education providers, who argue that these policies threaten the long-term sustainability of the sector. Troy Williams, the chief executive of the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA), warned that the government’s restrictive approach could lead to financial struggles for many education providers, some of which are still recovering from the pandemic. Job losses in the education sector are also expected as a direct result of these visa restrictions.

Universities Australia’s CEO, Luke Sheehy, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the economic importance of the international education sector, which contributed AUD 48 billion to the economy in 2023. This sector has been a major driver of Australia’s economic growth, supporting not only educational institutions but also the broader economy through job creation and skills development. Sheehy stressed that preserving stability and growth in the international education sector is vital for the country’s prosperity

In the Last…

The sharp decline in study visa grants in Australia signals a significant shift in the country’s approach to international education. While the tighter migration settings introduced in late 2023 aim to regulate student migration, they have also raised concerns about the long-term impacts on Australia’s education sector. As visa approval rates continue to fall and stricter requirements take hold, the effects on education providers, students, and the broader economy are likely to intensify in the coming months.

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Australia on Work Rights for International Students: A Look at the Latest Changes

Jaspal Singh - 24 July 2023

Australia’s international education sector has been experiencing a significant boost in its post-pandemic recovery, thanks to introducing generous policies surrounding in-study and post-study work rights for foreign students. As of July 1, 2023, new rules will come into effect, impacting both the number of hours international students can work while studying and the post-study work rights available to graduates. In this blog, I will delve into the latest changes and explore how they may affect international students studying in Australia.

Reintroduction of Caps on Working While Studying:

Starting in July 2023, the temporary policy that allowed international students to work unlimited hours while studying will end. The new policy will cap the working hours at 48 hours per fortnight (24 hours per week). Although some students express dissatisfaction with this modest increase, the aim is to balance enabling students to support themselves financially and ensuring they can fully focus on their primary purpose of studying in Australia.

Post-Study Work Rights for Select Degrees:

The Australian government has announced extended post-study work rights for graduates with specific degrees linked to labor skills shortages in the country. From July 2023, Bachelor’s graduates will be granted four years of post-study work rights, while Master’s graduates will enjoy five years. This move is expected to address skills shortages in various priority areas, including health, teaching, engineering, and agriculture.

Eligibility and Duration for Post-Study Work Rights:

Students graduating with degrees not on the priority list will have two years of post-study work rights for Bachelor’s degrees and three years for Master’s degrees. However, regardless of their study area, all doctoral graduates will be granted six years of post-study work rights, an increase from the previous four-year limit.

Impact on Australia’s Economy and International Education Sector:

The extended post-study work rights aim to address the skills shortages in various sectors of the Australian economy. By allowing skilled workers to stay longer and contribute to the economy, Australia aims to attract more international students and boost earnings from its education exports. The changes are also expected to make Australia a more attractive study destination, further strengthening the recovery of the international education sector.

Australia’s evolving policies on in-study and post-study work rights reflect the government’s commitment to supporting international students and addressing skills shortages in the country. While the reintroduction of working hours caps may pose challenges for some students, the extended post-study work rights offer promising opportunities for graduates in priority fields. By striking a careful balance, Australia aims to enhance the overall experience of international students and further merge its position as a preferred destination for higher education.

If you want more details of Australia, drop a call or WhatsApp +91-9888481965

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Aussie Dreams: Australian Student Visa for Indian Students

Jaspal Singh - 22 July 2023

Updated on September 11th, 2024

This blog is regarding the latest requirements for the Australia Study Visa for Indian students. In this blog, I’ll be sharing my experiences as an Education Advisor helping students for over two decades. Throughout my career, I have proudly guided thousands of aspiring students on their academic journeys to Australia. Here are most up-to-date information and insights on studying in Australia, including the latest updates and changes in the education landscape. Whether you are a prospective student or simply curious about the opportunities Down Under, join me on this enriching adventure as we delve into the exciting world of Australian education and obtaining an Australia Student Visa.

Enroll in a Registered Course:

To be eligible for an Australian student visa, you must enrol in a registered course at an accredited educational institution. Check the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) to ensure your chosen course meets the requirements. To enrol in a registered course under CRICOS for an Australia study visa, you’ll need to find the courses offered by registered education providers in Australia that interest you. Ensure the course you choose is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Choose an education provider that offers your desired course and is registered on CRICOS. If your application is accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from the education provider. This document is essential for your Australian student visa application.

Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement:

The GTE requirement assesses your intention to study in Australia temporarily. Prepare a well-written statement explaining your genuine intentions, ties to your home country, and how your chosen course aligns with your career goals. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is an assessment that individuals applying for an Australian student visa must meet. It ensures that visa applicants genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily to study and have no intention of remaining in the country indefinitely.

The GTE assessment takes into consideration various factors, including the applicant’s circumstances, immigration history, the course of study in Australia, and prospects after completing the studies. To meet the GTE requirement, applicants need to show a genuine intention to study in Australia, have a clear and realistic study plan, and show that they have sufficient ties to their home country that would compel them to return after their studies. This is crucial for securing an Australia Student Visa.

Financial Capacity while Applying for Australia Study Visa:

To get an Australia study visa (subclass 500), you need to show that you have sufficient financial capacity to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs while studying in Australia. The Australian Government requires this to ensure that you can support yourself financially during your stay in the country. You show that you have enough funds to cover your course tuition fees for the entire duration of your study program. Same way you need to show that you have sufficient funds to cover your living costs while in Australia. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other day-to-day expenses. The funds you declare must genuinely be available to you and not borrowed or got through unsustainable means. You will typically need to provide bank statements, financial institution letters, or any other relevant financial documents as evidence of your financial capacity to get an Australia Student Visa.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Australian student visa holders are required to maintain adequate health insurance coverage throughout their stay. Ensure you have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) from a registered health insurance provider. As an international student studying in Australia, it is a visa requirement to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC provides health insurance coverage for international students, ensuring that they have access to necessary medical and hospital services while studying in Australia. Obtaining OSHC is one of the mandatory steps for an Australia Student Visa.

OSHC is mandatory for all international students applying for an Australian student visa (subclass 500). You must purchase OSHC for the entire duration of your student visa. It typically covers a range of medical services, including visits to doctors, hospital treatment, prescription medicines, emergency ambulance services, and some medical tests.

Several health insurance providers in Australia offer OSHC policies. It’s essential to compare the coverage, costs, and services provided by different insurance companies to find the best option for your needs.

English Proficiency for Student Visa:

English language proficiency is an essential requirement for obtaining an Australia Student Visa. Demonstrating your English language abilities ensures that you can fully participate in your chosen course and have a successful academic experience in Australia. Depending on your course and education provider, you may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and others. You can take one of the approved English language tests, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic, or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE). Each test has its own minimum score requirement, so check the specific score needed for your course and visa application.

Health and Character Requirements:

As part of the visa application process for studying in Australia, you must meet certain health and character requirements. These requirements are put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the Australian community and to maintain the integrity of the country’s immigration system.

Medical Examination: You will be required to undergo a medical examination by a panel physician approved by the Australian Government. The examination assesses your overall health and determines if you have any health conditions that could be a risk to public health or could cause significant healthcare costs during your stay in Australia.

Seek Professional Assistance:

Consider seeking assistance from reputable education consultants experienced in Australian student visa applications. They can guide you through the process and provide valuable insights. If you are seeking professional assistance with your visa application or any other immigration-related matters, it’s essential to consult with a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer. These professionals are knowledgeable about the latest immigration laws and regulations and can provide you with expert advice and guidance throughout the visa application process for your Australia Student Visa.

Look for professionals with a proven track record of assisting clients with visa applications and immigration matters, especially for the type of visa you are applying for. Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the reputation and quality of service provided by the professional. Choose a professional who communicates effectively and responds to your inquiries.

Professional help can be beneficial in navigating the complexities of the visa application process, ensuring that you meet all requirements, and increasing the chances of a successful outcome. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and only seek help from registered and reputable professionals.

So if you too are planning for your Aussie dreams as a student in Australia, call or WhatsApp +91-9888481965 about your Australia Student Visa.

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Student Dependent Visa for Australia

Jaspal Singh - 30 September 2021

Updated on May 26th, 2023

When you wish to apply study visa for any destination of your choice and have a partner or child dependent on you, you need to check the visa provisions of that country. If the country is Australia, you need not worry, and no need to leave them behind. You can apply for a student-dependent visa along with your visa application.

On the other side if you are applying for your visa or you are already on a study visa in Australia, still you have the option to apply for a visa as a subsequent entrant. Subclass 500 prescribes some requirements that must be satisfied for approval of their visa applications. In all cases, the duration of their visa will depend upon the visa of the main applicant.

Eligibility to apply for a visa under this category

Who is eligible to apply under this category or who can apply for a student-dependent visa? Family members include your partner and you and your partner’s dependent children. In other simple words, dependents that can apply for a visa under this visa clause include your spouse or de facto partner. De facto partner means when you are not married, but you live like married and have a relationship. A person under this clause can apply if the relationship is at least 12 months old. And the relationship is genuine and exclusive. Similarly, a dependent child to apply under this category should depend on you or your partner and has not turned 18.

We must declare all existing members timely

It is mandatory under subclass 500 that you declare all your relationships at the time of your first application. Whether you are married or single should be clearly mentioned in the application. It is not relevant if the dependent is accompanying you or not. If you cannot mention it at the time of the first application, it would be difficult to add them later or at the time of the subsequent application.

A member of the family member failing to declare will not be eligible to enter Australia as the student’s family unit member, apart from a person who becomes a member after the student’s application was decided. Such negligence can also make doubtful the genuineness of the applicant. Genuineness (GTE) is a significant factor considered when deciding on any visa application in Australia. So being on the safe side, all family members, including married or de facto partners and dependent children, should be declared at the time of first application.

Subsequent entrant visa application

In case the main applicant gets married after the lodgment of his initial visa application. Still, before the visa is granted, he must notify the Department of Home Affairs as soon as possible. This update will help you add your dependent later in the subsequent visa application. Subsequent entrant applications can be lodged when the marriage is done after granting the main application’s visa. Proof of marriage and continued relationship must be provided along with a visa application. The Visa officer may ask for any related document to ascertain the genuineness of the relationship.

It should be obvious that the visa officer is always concerned with the present situation of the relationship. The continuity of the relationship needs to be proved to get visa approval. Along with relationship proof, there are also financial requirements for a successful visa application. Such requirements keep on changing, so readers are advised to check with official sources before applying for your visa application.

Financial requirements for family members

As mentioned above, there are also financial requirements. Dependents need to show that they have sufficient funds to cover living costs during their stay in Australia. Applicant needs to show living costs for 12 months. And if the application is combined, then the student needs to show 12-month tuition and living cost. The cost of dependent children also needs to be calculated. Financial requirements are an essential part of a visa application, so I advised it to check properly while applying for your application.

Checklist of documents required

If you are already in Australia and you are fulfilling your all visa conditions and want to invite your dependents. In that case, your dependents need to file a visa application along with the following documents. This checklist is not final; the visa officer may ask for additional documents for his satisfaction.

# Form 919 Nomination of student defendants

# Form 157A Application for a student visa

# An Original letter from the education provider stating the course you are studying, the duration of the course, your expected completion date, and satisfying course requirements.

# Proof that you have sufficient money to support your dependents in Australia

# Proof of your relationship with your dependents as birth and marriage certificates

# Proof of school enrollment for your school-aged dependents

# Proof of health insurance for each dependent. Family members of the main applicant or visa holder must provide evidence of having adequate health insurance for the grant of their visa for the period of their intended stay in Australia. Documentation includes evidence of payment of the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

You may ask for any further details at Adv.Jaspal@gmail.com

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Australia for International Students: A Current Scenario

Bhawana - 26 September 2021

Updated on May 26th, 2022

Australia has always been one of the preferred destinations for higher studies among international students. In 2018, the number of international students enrolled in different Australian education providers was approx. 8, 69,709 (rising 8.8% higher than it was in 2017). In 2019, there was a slight holdup in this number (approx. 7, 58,000) and in the subsequent years, because of the covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, the student concentration all across Australia reached approx. 529,580, meaning a decrease of 17% from that of 2017.

In spite of this, Australia has retained its accomplishment as being the topmost International student education destination and being in the highest demand in terms of quality education and personality growth among international students. Studying abroad may feel slightly daunting for students but compared with the impeccable benefits of the Australian education system, the students will surely fall in love with the country and experience everything it offers.

So many reasons why students choose Australia

According to different studies, Australian Universities/colleges are placed in the top 100 in QS World University Rankings. Australia is known for higher living standards and for providing higher wage rates to students. International students here also enjoy the incredible nature and diverse terrain, along with experiencing the most diverse wildlife on earth and a multitude of unique experiences.

Students experience new and diverse cultures along with exploring wonderful culinary offerings, public international celebrations, and the chance to learn a different language; these in a much more secure and safe environment, which makes them feel a sense of belonging in the multicultural setting. International students also get the best opportunities to gain practical and professional experience in diverse fields as they are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while studying and receive higher wages as compared to some other countries.

Indian Students in Australia — *The number of Indian students choosing Australia has consistently increased over the years*

Australia is globally renowned for its contribution to the research and development sector, especially for IVF, cervical cancer vaccination, penicillin, ultrasound, the Bionic Ear, Black Box Flight Recorders, and many more; which forms great opportunities for students who are especially interested in technologies and engineering. Studying in Australia helps not only the students to develop their academic background and national career along with developing their overall personality, but the student government also considered international students as an important asset. It can be verified that the higher education bend in the country has steadily reached up to 54% while in the VET sector, the bend is over 37%.

How is Australia in the Current Scenario?

As for the current scenario, many students have already applied or are going to apply to different Australian education providers to experience and explore the outstanding education, the unique culture, and best of everything the country offers but because of lockdowns and border restrictions, traveling has become challenging.

The good news is that according to the news by Karen Andrews, the travel ban on Australian borders are to be lifted by November 2021 (as the report stated that once 80% of people are vaccinated in Australia, the borders will be opened and till now 40% of the target vaccinations has been achieved. And it is believed that the remaining 40% will be easily achieved by Nov 2021). This means the long wait of almost 18 months by the international students is finally going to be over and they will be all set to experience quality education in Australia and achieve their goals.

*Auther with High Commissioner Australia*

According to PM Scott Morrison, Universities and colleges of Australia are waiting for the international students as they form an important asset for the Government and an important revenue-generating factor. International students are the backbone of the Australian economy and once the borders are open, the country is ready to provide the best of education and services to the international students in order to prove its resilience and dedication towards the students and retaining its glory of being the dream destination for international students.

In a nutshell, I can say that once Australian borders are open, the applications for traveling to Australia will skyrocket as Australia has proven to be the country providing the best quality and standard-based educational and economic facilities to all the immigrants and its citizens while striving to maintain peace and security even during the pandemic. Students can easily associate positive personal and professional growth parameters with Australia and they will never be disappointed for sure.

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When can Indian students travel to Australia & join their studies?

Jaspal Singh - 21 July 2021

Updated on May 27th, 2023

Indian students planning to travel to Australia have a question in mind that we all are trying to get an answer, but still wandering to fix it. Question is, when can Indian students travel to their dreamland to join their studies? Several international students, including thousands from India, enrolled in Australian universities remain offshore because of the strict border closure. Parents, students & education consultants are estimating the timeline for student return. Australia’s economy is on track, although affected by Covid-19 to some extent. Credits for this go to the country’s stable financial system. But whereas it completely affected the education sector.

Overseas students cannot travel to Australia to join their classes. Universities and other institutes are struggling hard for their survival. It scattered their economic structure so much that they cannot pay salaries to their staff, denying them regular jobs. Figures show that Universities shed at least 17,300 jobs in 2020.

Indian students are waiting for opening of borders

International education is the country’s fourth-biggest export, with A$40.3 billion in 2019. Closure of borders for International Students cost a loss of 9 billion. These figures are from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABC). The country’s borders have been effectively closed to international students for well over a year and there is still no clear-cut sign of when they will reopen. Over 110,000 international students currently enrolled in higher education courses in Australia are studying remotely because of the border closures, according to federal government figures.

According to data released by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment in May, the number of Indian students enrolled in Australian universities dropped by 13 percent between January and May this year as compared to a similar period last year.

An initiative by South Australia

International Students waiting to travel

South Australia had previously announced its pilot plan to let international students travel to Australia and quarantine at Parafield Airport last few weeks giving few indications of the early opening of borders for international students. Under the plan, 160 students would be quarantined at Parafield Airport and be required to have daily COVID-19 tests. Parafield Airport is on the edge of the residential suburb of Parafield. It’s in South Australia, 18 km north of the Adelaide city center. It is Adelaide’s second airport and the third busiest airport in Australia by aircraft movements. After China, India is among the biggest source of international students for SA. Outside of China, India is the next biggest source of overseas students for South Australia.

Sydney lockdown & its effects

Similarly, NSW announced its plan to bring back international students in June, which was under review by the federal government. They did not include though India in this pilot plan. This plan of the NSW government was about to happen, but the outbreak of the virus in Sydney delayed it. They extended lockdowns many times. NSW has paused plans to fly in international students to help kick-start the struggling education sector. Premier Ms. Berejiklian said recently we had put the pilot program on hold. Adding the government would not compromise its ability to exit the lockdown as quickly as possible.

Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge further endorsed the statement saying ‘the NSW government had made the right call in pausing the pilot’. Sydney is currently battling a spike in the highly contagious Delta variant infections, which has prompted New South Wales (NSW) Premier Gladys Berejiklian to pause its student pilot plan while the state remains in lockdown.

Over the past year, South Australia and Australian Capital Territory had also announced similar student return plans, but not implemented them. Other states also followed the same, but there’s no concrete answer. When international students can travel to Australia, which has kept students on edge since the country shut its borders in March 2020.

Changing the mindset of students

There is increasing frustration in students planning to study in Australia. whereas other countries are relaxing restrictions and openly managing and facilitating the safe return of students, Australia seems more conscious of it. Students are changing their choice to other destinations like UK & USA. It is very clear the fate of the international education sector rests on Australia’s border policy. The most important factor in the sector’s recovery is the rate at which both new and returning international students can enter the country. Experts claim global competitors are gaining because of Australia’s tight border policy.

In concluding lines, we can still keep hoping for the early opening of borders for Indian students. We all are expecting it sooner. The country needs a national proactive strategy to bring back existing students on priority. Although Prime Minister announced the opening of borders from November 1 for a few categories but has not yet communicated a specific timeline for their student return.

…recent updates (Nov. 2021)

As per media reports, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on ( 12th Nov 2021) in Melbourne that international travelers and students from India could soon enter the country. He further clarified that the government had already expanded the definition of the immediate family. This will allow the parents of permanent residents and citizens to be allowed for entering Australia.

Media report on Australia Travel — Media report

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more about different Australian Visas

Jaspal Singh - 3 May 2021

Updated on September 7th, 2024

Australia is one of the popular destinations to migrate to, whether you are going as a student, visitor, worker, or finally settling there. As an education & migration consultant for over two decades, I see many people apply for Australian visas every year. Each year, Australia grants a good number of different visas. In 2015, the number of migrants who got permanent residency in Australia was about 1,90 000. The reason behind this migration can be any, but it also helps the country’s economy grow and fill its workforce requirements and overall development. Most of the people going to Australia, about 70%, are skilled migrants, and about 30% are joining their relatives.

There are different visas for Australia, and the primary purpose of this blog is to discuss a few of them. Normally, we deal with student visas, visitor visas, or permanent residency visas. But in this blog, we will discuss a few other visas. If you are planning to travel to Australia for any purpose or are not sure which visa you should apply for, then this article can be helpful to you. This article discusses the different titles of visas.

Student Guardian Visa subclass 590

This Visa is for a guardian to come to Australia to provide care and support for a student visa holder under 18 years of age. The duration of this visa depends upon the length of the visa of the student. The applicant for this visa must be a student’s parent, custodian, or relative with a minimum age of 21. Applicant should have sufficient financial to support himself and the student during their stay in Australia.

While granting this visa, the visa officer considers the welfare of any member of the family who is not coming with you to Australia. You are personally liable for all your healthcare costs while you are in Australia. Medical insurance helps limit your financial liability. You must maintain adequate health cover for the whole of your stay if they granted you this visa. Your insurance should cover you for medically necessary treatment, including transport.

Under this visa, the applicant will not get any working rights. Normally, this visa is given when students go on a schooling visa. The genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) clause is significant while granting the visa; the applicant’s personal circumstances in the home country and potential circumstances in Australia are considered. In this Visa applicant’s immigration history is also significant while granting this visa. So, while applying for this visa, you must take expert advice. Consult for schooling & Guardian Visa here.

Prospective Marriage Visa subclass 300

If you are planning to marry an Australian citizen or permanent resident, this visa can be for you. Within a period of 9 months of reaching Australia, the applicant has to marry another partner. During this period, you will have full working rights without restrictions from the visa perspective. After marrying your partner, you can then apply for an onshore partner visa 820/801. After getting married, you can also apply to enroll in Medicare.

The visa allows multiple entries throughout the visa validity period. If we check the eligibility criteria to apply for this visa, the applicant should be at least 18 years old. Another partner whom they are going to marry must sponsor them. They both must have met in person since they turned 18 years old. Considering the GTE clause, both applicants must have genuine intentions to marry each other and live together as spouses.

Relationship Statement in Partner Visa

While applying for this visa, the relationship statement is an essential document. How the relationship started, developed, and finally, they decided to marry and live together. It must clearly mention all with no mistakes. It’s important, to be honest when writing the statement to prove that your relationship is genuine and continuing.

Mentioning exact dates is also very important. It would help if you mentioned all things that drive both of you closer, like common interests, and values. We can also mention significant events and activities while preparing this statement.

In such cases, it is common that applicants live separately, and during that period, how you maintained a relationship is very important. Finally, you may conclude the statement by elaborating on your plans once you are in Australia together with your partner. These plans usually are family and financial plans. The statement of your partner should be consistent with your claims. You may support your claim with evidence such as photographs, joint financial statements, and travel tickets.

Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa subclass 188

This enables you to possess as well as manage a business across Australia, conduct a legible and approved business and investment activity across Australia, or undertake an authentic entrepreneurial activity anywhere in Australia. If you have a successful business in your home country, are you willing to move to Australia with your family and establish a business, either a new one or an already running one, then this visa is for you. For this visa, you need to be nominated by the state government. Each state may have preferences for different requirements for different businesses. The duration of this visa is 2 years, which can be extended to another two years. And within this period, you need to have a requirement to invest a minimum amount of AUD 1.5 million in one state or territory of Australia.

Under subclass 188, there are different categories; here, we will discuss Business Innovation Stream Visa and Investor Stream Visa in this article. Eligibility and other criteria for these both categories are as under.

Business Innovation Stream

You need to provide proof of business success. It will assess the turnover of your present business. You and your partner or only you should have the personal asset and a total net business of AUD 800,000 while applying for the Business Innovation visa. You must score at least 65 on the points test. The main applicant must be able to have a Functional English level.

Investor Stream:
You must be a holder of an asset or an investment whose net value should be at least AUD 2.25 Million. You must score a minimum of 65 on the point board to get the Visa Subclass 188. Applicant must have invested AUD 1.5 Million in the country’s territory. The requirement of English level is also there.

Other common requirements
You must be below 55 years when you are applying for it. An applicant who is above 55 years is eligible to apply for it if his business is of exceptional economic benefit.

You must qualify for the health and character requirements stated by the nation before applying for it. Your extended family members who are not traveling with you might also need to meet the requirements; in that case, the respective person needs to do so.

Someone can file all these visas directly, taking no professional advice. Still, it is not suggested because there are so many technicalities where you certainly need professional advice to save your time & money. There can be many minute reasons that can be the reason for the refusal of your visa application. You must consult a professional to avoid rejection of visa due to wrong documentation and other errors. If you need more details on any of the visas, Visit www.caanworld.net

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Australia Partner Visa, few insights you must know

Jaspal Singh - 16 January 2021

Updated on September 30th, 2021

If you plan to join your partner in Australia or have already applied for a Partner Visa, this blog can give you few insights into this visa category. I am not a registered migration agent but working in a related profession for over two decades, having offices in India and Australia. I regularly interact with different registered migration agents, talk to colleagues, and read other professional blogs, so I based the information shared here on my own experiences and research. This blog unpacks the partner visa clauses and few common mistakes you should avoid when applying for a partner visa.

Partner Visa, when lodged Onshore:

The Partners Visa subclass 820 & 801 is lodged, while you are inside Australia. This Visa allows the individual to live in Australia, the spouse or a de facto partner of an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident. The temporary Partner Visa subclass 820 is granted initially. It lets you stay in Australia. Whereas the permanent Partner visa subclass 801, once granted, you can live in Australia as a permanent resident and further work to get your citizenship. There are other requirements on age, health, and character ground for this visa to be granted.

Partner Visa, when lodged Offshore:

Other clauses for Partner Visa are subclass 309 & 100. We can apply for these visas while the applicant is out of Australia. Partner Visa (Provisional) under subclass 100 is a temporary visa that allows the partner or spouse of an Australian citizen or permanent resident to stay in Australia. This Visa is the first step towards permanent Partner Visa subclass 100.

There is another Visa that later can lead to Partner Visa. This Visa is Prospective Marriage Visa subclass 300. This Visa is for those who want to enter before marriage. To apply for this visa, your fiancé must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. This Visa has a duration of 9 months, within which visa holders need to marry. They can apply to convert their visa to Partner Visa once they get married.

How do Partner Visas work ?

As discussed above, the partner of an Australian citizen or permanent resident can apply for a partner visa either onshore or offshore. When applied onshore, the applicant gets the bridging visa to remain in Australia during the processing time. The applicant is not entitled to a bridging visa when it applied offshore. The applicant has to remain in their home country during the processing time or visit Australia as a tourist for a short time. On tourist visas, they get no working or study rights like other applicants who apply onshore. The Visa fee in both cases remains the same. Presently it is $7715. As per Migration law, those who lodge an offshore application must also be outside Australia when their visa is granted.

Few mistakes that people normally do

Now I will share few mistakes that people usually make while lodging this visa. I have seen so many small and big reasons behind refusals of Partner Visa applications. This Visa is the most expensive, so everyone wants to get it right the first time.

It is not mandatory to lodge this visa with the help of a migration agent. You can file it yourself, but I suggest taking the help of professionals. Otherwise, you need to invest a lot of time in researching various details of partner visas. Because of a lack of professional advice, they refuse many applications. Department refused 47% of Partner Visa applications without migration agents in the financial year 2015-16. It was 53% in 2016-2107. So keeping in mind such a big rate of refusals, I suggest we take professional advice for better outcomes of visa applications.

Importance of Information stated in form 888s

Form 888 is an essential part of Partner Visa or Prospective Marriage visa applications. Your family, friends, or colleagues made this statutory declaration witnessing your relationship. It would help if you took care that the information mentioned in this form should not contradict what you had stated in your application. This declaration considers the social aspect of relationships. If you do not write statements, sometimes the information given does not match with the application. So we need a proper check while lodging a visa application.

Lack of sufficient evidence is one reason

Lack of enough information and evidence can be another reason for the refusal of a partner visa. There is no parameter to say what evidence is acceptable. But you will need to provide evidence to prove your claims in your application. Proving the genuineness of your relationship is an essential part of a successful visa application. Visa Officer, while deciding the application, may look into various facets of your lifestyle. This includes but is not limited to financial interdependence, mixing of finances, financial planning, social conduct, sharing social life, shared properties, home duties, travels, how the relationship was maintained when the couple was separated, and how others view the relationship, etc. We need to provide evidence of all facts to help the case officer to access your application.

Dates are very important in any visa application

All dates related to your relationship mentioned in your visa application must be consistent with each other. Forgetting dates can give visa officers a chance to question the integrity of your relationship. While filling the forms, you must take proper care of all dates. I have seen so many applications where a minor mistake about dates was the reason for visa rejection. You and your partner must know the fact that proper timeline and dates of relationship history.

There is no last list of such mistakes. Here, I just tried to recall a few of them. I suggest proper research on your visa application to be aware of each detail. Otherwise, I recommended the professional services of experts. In case of the department contacts you, you must provide such information within a timeframe. Make sure that you keep checking your Immi account and emails regularly.

If planning to file Partner Visa or any other Visa, drop a call at +91-9216 310 310

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Hope the Australian borders reopen soon for international students?

Jaspal Singh - 5 September 2020

Updated on August 23rd, 2021

After months of speculations, since March 2020, when the Australian borders are closed because of a health crisis caused by COVID-19 to everyone except citizens and permanent residents, everyone is regularly asking a question. When will borders reopen for international students? Undoubtedly this question is also costing 40 billion dollars to the country’s economy. Uncertainty is everywhere, although government officials, students, Universities, agencies, and other bodies estimate it differently. Given figures suggest that over 100, 000 international students are waiting outside Australia, including India. And they are wandering every day to fly back to Australia and join their studies.

South Australia’s plan

On 16^th August 2020, the Australian government announced a pilot program under which the government is planning to reopen borders for approximately 300 international students who will arrive in South Australia. The federal government also gave a green signal to plan. Under this plan, these students will be from South East Asian countries like Singapore, Japan, China, and Hong Kong. After reaching Adelaide, they will remain in 14 days quarantine period. Universities will pay for the cost of quarantine.

Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham

Another plan of South Australia

Now we are at the end of July 2021 and under a newly approved student arrival plan for South Australia, a dedicated quarantine hub in Adelaide will host up to 160 students. South Australia approved the new “quarantine hub” and they expected it to become operational in the second half of 2021.

On similar lines, another quarantine hub proposal for New South Wales is in the last stages of review. If it happens, it will be a significant step for students. Two in five (38%) international students who come to Australia choose to study in NSW.

Conditions are safe for quarantine

Education Minister Alan Tudge said the South Australia hub, which is to be based at Parafield Airport, met all standards. And “won’t take any quarantine places from Australians returning home”; returning students will be outside of overall “caps” on returning travellers for the state.

Institutions and students will be responsible for the costs of flights and quarantine. Incoming students will quarantine for 14 days and take daily COVID-19 tests.

South Australia’s Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier, who first approved the plan in May, said the quarantine facility is “ideal”:

It is single ground floor units, there’re no corridors basically, so it’s very well ventilated. It’s ideally set up for a student cohort because that’s actually what we normally use the facility for.

There are so many other factors on which the actual answer depends. The Australian government is trying to control the situation. Any further outbreak of COVID in any part of the country can create risk and all planning may get further delay.

As mentioned earlier, this question is costing 40 billion to the country, the government should come with a more effective way out to revive the economy. Students will travel and undergo medical tests and also quarantine. Delay in the opening will cause further loss to the economy. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, while talking to the media, mentioned that Australian borders would not reopen at least the end of the year but on the other side. Universities have taken applications, and similarly, immigration has also started accepting visa applications.

Hope that students can resume studies

In this scenario, if someone planning to study in Australia, he has to start the process, taking English tests like IELTS or PTE, collecting relevant documents. As a prospective international student, you can predict to join studies in the first intake in 2021. But this is again an estimate as there is no official announcement yet.

Let’s hope for the early reopening of borders for students and other travellers.

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