verystormy

If you mean available for state sponsorship, then no unless you studied there. Though at the moment, state sponsored visas are closed to new applicants anyway.

The RRV would be worth a shot as it is a few hundred dollars. Though they have in more recent times being pretty strict with the criteria of having close ties to Australia. Be aware, if you do have to reapply, it is very different now. For example, to get an invite you will need 95 points.

Unless they have brought in a special regulation since Covid that I a not aware of, then correct. Though, in the event of an emergency, I would be confident that would be waived.

No. Not until you register

Have you got your visas and if so, what category?

I personally know many people who have used the company and are extremely happy. Hence, why I am prepared to recommend them. Yes, some people do visas themselves, which is contrary to the advice of the department. Personally, I think that is unwise. Australia makes (in a normal year) about 4000 changes to law and regulations regarding immigration. It publishes about 100 of those. The rest are only briefed to agents. At the current time it is far more complex. For example, the 190 and 491 are effectively closed as the states have not been given any allocation, this was only known to agents until a day ago.

Sponsorship isn’t the best way forward as it is generally only a temporary visa which comes with lots of issues, such as lose your job for any reason, you lose the visa. You are better to look at permanent visas. Also, temporary visas generally can not enter Australia at the moment and that is likely to continue for some time.

This is the website for Camilla who is well regarded and helps on the forum http://www.newlifedownunder.com.au You need to be aware though that while the contributory visa is the best option, it still is not quick. Likely timeframe is 8 years and for two parents is in the area of $120,000.

I wouldn’t use that agent. That is as strong as I can say online. Do so at your peril. Don’t forget, if it goes all wrong, not only will it cost you thousands, but potentially even a ban on reapplying

The first thing I would say is do not speak to anyone that is not themselves a registered migration agent. The firm you are using have one director that is and that is all. Personally, I would avoid The process is complex but as a rough guide: Check is occupation is on one of the lists and if so which list. That determines if it is even possible and if so, which visa. An occupation on the long term list is eligible for a 189 visa. Occupations only on the short term are not but may be eligible for 190 or 491 visas. Calculate points. You need a minimum of 65. However, a 189 is a competition and nobody has received an invite for a 189 with less than 90 for a long time If going for a 190 or 491, check if any states are sponsoring that occupation and any special conditions the state is requiring If you are satisfied you have the points and a means to apply, then obtain a skills assessment Most people find that to help points they need to sit an English language exam such as ILETS. This does need revision and preparation before sitting Once you have the above, lodge an expression of interest. Wait to be invited and when invited apply. In the mean time, save money like mad. This is an expensive process.

There are exemptions for couples, however, they aren’t easy, particularly for temporary visa holders. I would speak to a good registered migration agent. I would say the chance of an air bridge is zero given that cases in the U.K. are rising again, at least in England

Well, I would attempt an RRV first as the cost difference is huge. But, yes, if you still meet the criteria then you can reapply. Note though, things have changed a lot since you last applied. The age limit has reduced and the minimum points gone up. Also, just getting minimum points now will not get a visa. The minimum now needed to get a 189 invite is 90 points

Camilla at http://www.newlifedownunder.com.au

Hi Camilla Good to hear you are safe and well. Can’t say I have been busy as such, as I was furloughed back in March. Though trying to keep busy with other stuff like helping my wife with the garden. She is growing masses of vegetables this year. Also, we “think” we had the virus at one point. We didn’t have the typical cough and fever, so didn’t get tested, but now they have increased the symptoms known, it seems we might have. I started with a bad taste in my mouth - like blood, that overpowered everything. Then, woke up one morning with an incredible headache and sore throat. Never felt anything like it before and I literally couldn’t get up. That lasted a week. Then, severe stomach upset. Probably should have connected the dots more, as 4 days earlier, I had to go to hospital for something else and that hospital is a major COVID treatment centre. But, on the mend now. Here in Scotland, we are very much still in lockdown. The only real easing is we can now drive up to 5 miles for our daily exercise. Though it is amazing how business has adapted. For example, my local pub which was famous for its Sunday lunches, now delivers them and even delivers hand pulled pints of beer. I think it will be a long time though before they open. Keep safe and keep well. Chris

http://www.newlifedownunder.com.au