Australia has various visa options available for visitors, skilled workers, business people, students, investors and others. Its work visa system focuses on enabling skilled workers to live in the country on a temporary or permanent basis and includes avenues for these workers to meet the needs in different parts of the country. The main visa for temporary employer-sponsored workers allows for family members to accompany the main employee and provides a pathway to permanent residence. Permanent residence for a minimum of twelve months during more than four years of legal residence is a requirement for people to obtain Australian citizenship. A seasonal worker programme for people from certain countries is in place, but does not allow participants to apply for further visas and requires they leave at the end of their employment. New Zealand’s citizens can work in Australia indefinitely but must obtain a permanent visa to gain certain rights or to apply for Australian citizenship.
Persons unlawfully in Australia are required to leave and could face immigration detention. Bridging visas can provide extra time for people to resolve visa issues. Movement and visa records are strictly maintained in Government databases, with incoming and outgoing passenger information carefully recorded. A range of other border protection measures prevents and deters illegal entry into the country, including blacklists, biometric technology, and advance passenger processing.
Australia is considered to have a straightforward and inclusive immigration policy. However, in recent years, a range of illegal migrations to Australia have led to growing concerns and the Government has introduced stricter laws to combat illegal immigration. In saying that, Australia remains a welcoming nation with many opportunities and a suite of immigration policies and paths that can allow aspiring migrators to move to and live in this beautiful country.
You are free to manage your immigration process and navigate the legal system on your own, however, in all but the most straightforward of cases, there are huge benefits to seeking the services of a trained immigration expert. After all, Australia has many visa options, totalling 140 subclasses. A good lawyer can advise you on a number of potentially complex decisions, select a visa option that is right for your situation, check your eligibility and any unique legal requirements, and negotiate with the Government on your behalf. Investing in a good lawyer now can save heartbreak and expense further down the line.