Immigration to Australia

For many people in the world, immigration to Australia is a highly attractive perspective. Australia has set up a set of rules which makes it relatively easy to determine if one has got a chance at moving permanently to Australia, even if no relatives are already living in the country. Currently, the job situation in Australia seems to be excellent for most occupations.

Basically, the points system set up by Australia is based on the following criteria:

- Age (not older than 44 when applying!)
- Education
- Occupation and job experience
- Level of English proficiency
- Standing job offer
- Australian education experience
- Relatives in Australia

There is a multitude of different visa, the most coveted the "Permanent Resident". Not all of them bound to the points system. Immigration visa are not free - they cost a hefty fee in most cases. For details, check the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) web page, or contact an immigration agent (many are offering their services on the web).

The points system may seem to be unfair and discriminating against people in real need, but it has helped Australia to attract top-level immigrants, become a highly dynamic society and avoid some, but not all, of the immigration issues in Europe.

On September 1st, 2007, a number of changes will be made for the General Skilled Migration visa - the English language requirements will be more stringent, but with the chance to gain additional 5 points there, and the pass levels for Sponsored and Regional visa will be lowered from 110 to 100 - making it easier for most applicants for these visa classes. Also, the chance to "buy" additional 5 points with a 100'000 AU$ credit to a State bank has been removed - 100 points for fairness! Check out the PDF summary from the DIAC web page.