Navigating the intricate process of obtaining an Australian visa requires a deep understanding of various requirements. Among these, a fundamental step is the acquisition of a skills assessment. This pivotal procedure is designed to validate your qualifications and work experience, ensuring they align with the standards set by the Australian government. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the significance of skills assessments, explore the diverse types available, and shed light on why they are indispensable for a seamless Australian visa application.

Understanding Skills Assessment

Definition and Process: At its core, a skills assessment is a meticulous evaluation of your educational qualifications, work experience, and skills, conducted by designated assessing authorities in Australia. This assessment is tailored to match your expertise with the requirements of your nominated occupation in Australia. Understanding the nuances of this process is crucial, as it forms the foundation of your visa application.

Types of Skills Assessments: There are various types of skills assessments, each catering to specific visa categories. For instance, the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, which includes Subclass 189, 190, and 491 visas, demands a skills assessment from applicants. Additionally, employer-sponsored visas like Subclass 482, 494 and 186 have their unique assessment criteria. Familiarizing yourself with the specific type required for your visa is vital for a successful application.

Role of Assessing Authorities: Assessing authorities play a pivotal role in the skills assessment process. These entities are responsible for evaluating your credentials and determining if they meet the Australian standards for your nominated occupation. Different occupations are assessed by different authorities, each having its own set of guidelines and requirements. Researching and selecting the appropriate assessing authority is the initial step toward a successful assessment.

Importance of Skills Assessment for Australian Visa

Validation of Qualifications: A positive skills assessment acts as a robust validation of your qualifications. It provides assurance to the Department of Home Affairs that your educational background aligns with the Australian standards for your chosen occupation. This validation is a crucial determinant in the visa approval process.

Enhanced Visa Approval Chances: Possessing a positive skills assessment substantially enhances your chances of visa approval. It signifies to the immigration authorities that you possess the necessary skills and expertise required for your nominated occupation. Applicants with a positive skills assessment often receive preferential treatment during the visa selection process.

Streamlining the Immigration Process: A skills assessment not only validates your qualifications but also streamlines the immigration process. It ensures that your application meets the specified criteria, reducing the likelihood of delays or complications. A meticulously prepared skills assessment can pave the way for a smoother visa application journey.

How to Obtain a Skills Assessment

Step-by-Step Guide: Obtaining a skills assessment involves a series of well-defined steps. These steps typically include gathering essential documents such as academic transcripts, employment certificates, and language proficiency test results. Following a detailed, step-by-step guide provided by the assessing authority is crucial to preparing a comprehensive application.

Required Documents and Qualifications: Different assessing authorities have specific document requirements. Ensuring you provide accurate and complete documentation is imperative. These documents often include proof of academic qualifications, evidence of work experience, and language proficiency test results, such as IELTS or PTE scores. Meeting the minimum qualification standards set by the Australian government is essential.

Common Challenges Faced: Applicants often encounter challenges during the skills assessment process, such as document verification issues or ambiguity regarding qualification standards. Addressing these challenges proactively is vital. Seeking assistance from professional migration consultants or engaging with online forums where applicants share their experiences can provide valuable insights into overcoming common hurdles.

Tips for a Successful Application: Preparing a successful skills assessment application requires meticulous attention to detail. Ensuring all documents are accurate, complete, and well-organized is paramount. Additionally, staying updated with the latest guidelines and requirements from the assessing authority is crucial. Seeking guidance from experienced migration agents can provide you with valuable tips and strategies to enhance your application’s chances of success.

Navigating Skills Assessment for Different Visa Types

Skilled Independent Visas (Subclass 189, 190, 491): For skilled independent visas, applicants must undergo a skills assessment to demonstrate their qualifications and work experience in a nominated occupation. The assessment ensures that applicants possess the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the Australian workforce.

Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 186, 494): Employer-sponsored visas, such as Subclass 494 and Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa, require a skills assessment tailored to the specific occupation. These assessments are designed to validate both the applicant’s qualifications and their relevance to the nominated position offered by an Australian employer.

Other Visa Categories: Skills assessments are not limited to skilled and employer-sponsored visas. temporary work visas, may require a skills assessment, depending on the nature of the course or occupation. Understanding the specific requirements for each visa category is crucial for a successful application.

Differences in Assessment Criteria: Each visa category has its unique assessment criteria. For example, skilled independent visas focus on the applicant’s ability to work independently, while employer-sponsored visas emphasize the applicant’s suitability for the nominated position within an Australian organization. Understanding these differences ensures that your skills assessment aligns seamlessly with your chosen visa category.

Understanding Assessing Authorities in Australia

Overview of Assessing Authorities: Australia has several assessing authorities, each responsible for specific occupations. Engineers Australia, the Australian Computer Society, and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council are just a few examples. Each authority has a detailed list of occupations it assesses, and applicants must select the appropriate authority based on their nominated occupation.

Specific Requirements and Guidelines: Each assessing authority has its unique set of requirements and guidelines. These can range from minimum years of work experience to specific qualifications and even English language proficiency levels. Understanding these requirements in detail and aligning your application with them is crucial for a successful assessment outcome.

Challenges and Solutions in Skills Assessment

Common Challenges Faced by Applicants: Applicants often face challenges such as delays in document verification, unclear guidelines, or discrepancies in qualification recognition. These challenges can be stressful but are not insurmountable with the right approach and guidance.

Solutions and Strategies: Addressing challenges effectively requires a proactive approach. Staying organized, double-checking all documentation, and seeking clarification from the assessing authority when in doubt are essential strategies. Engaging with online communities and forums where applicants share their experiences can provide valuable solutions to common challenges.

Case Studies: Real-life case studies of individuals who successfully navigated the skills assessment process can offer valuable insights. These case studies can highlight the challenges faced, the strategies employed, and the eventual outcomes. Learning from the experiences of others can provide applicants with a roadmap for their own skills assessment journey.

Impact of Skills Assessment on Visa Approval

Influence on Points-Based Immigration System: Australia operates on a points-based immigration system, where points are allocated based on various factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, and English language proficiency. A positive skills assessment significantly contributes to your points score, enhancing your eligibility for skilled migration visas.

Addressing Discrepancies and Concerns: In some cases, applicants may encounter discrepancies or concerns in their skills assessment report. Addressing these issues promptly and professionally is essential. This may involve providing additional documentation or clarification to the assessing authority. Ensuring that your skills assessment report is accurate and error-free is vital for a successful visa application.

Expert Advice and Resources

Importance of Professional Advice: Navigating the skills assessment process can be complex and daunting. Seeking professional advice from registered migration agents or consultants is highly recommended. These experts have in-depth knowledge of the assessment requirements, can guide you through the application process, and help you address any challenges that may arise.

Utilizing Online Resources: In addition to professional advice, applicants can benefit from utilizing online resources and official websites. These resources provide up-to-date information on assessment guidelines, required documentation, and frequently asked questions. Being well-informed and updated ensures that you are prepared for every stage of the skills assessment process.

Community Forums and FAQs: Engaging with online community forums and FAQs specific to your nominated occupation or assessing authority can provide a wealth of information. These platforms allow applicants to interact with others who have undergone similar assessments, share experiences, and seek advice. Learning from the collective knowledge of the community can be invaluable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a skills assessment is a pivotal step toward realizing your dream of living and working in Australia. By understanding the intricacies of the assessment process, preparing a meticulous application, and seeking expert guidance when needed, you can significantly enhance your chances of a successful Australian visa application. Remember, each applicant’s journey is unique, and challenges, if they arise, can be overcome with determination, patience, and the right support. As you embark on this transformative journey, equip yourself with knowledge, stay proactive, and embrace the possibilities that await you in the land Down Under. Your Australian dream is within reach – make it a reality with a successful skills assessment and a well-prepared visa application.

The post What Is a Skills Assessment, and Why You Need It for an Australian Visa appeared first on Nowak Migration.

Should you require a migration agent’s assistance you can book a consultation here.

NSW Business and Skilled Migration Update 31 Aug 2020

NSW has been provided a limited number of interim nomination places for the 2020–21 financial year.

Because our nomination places are limited, we have made some temporary adjustments to our application process. These adjustments will be reviewed if more nomination places are provided to us later in the financial year.

Business and investor visas

We will nominate potential business and investor applicants by invitation only.

To be considered for NSW nomination for the subclass 188 visa, ensure you have a valid EOI in SkillSelect selecting ‘NSW’ as your preferred state.

Skilled visas

Invitation rounds will commence shortly for subclass 190 visa nomination. In line with Home Affairs’ direction, we will only invite applicants in selected health, ICT and engineering occupations, and who currently reside in NSW.

All on-hand subclass 491 visa applicants will be advised of their outcomes by email shortly.

For all visa subclasses, you do not need to submit a new EOI in SkillSelect if your current EOI is valid.

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The table below shows the occupation ceilings for the 2020-2021 program year for each occupation on the list of eligible skilled occupations by the four-digit ANZSCO code unit group.

Occupation ceiling values are based on a percentage of stock employment figures for each occupation. Employment figures are provided by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and represent the number of people employed in Australia in each occupation.

Occupation ceilings do not apply to State or Territory Nominated, Employer Sponsored or Business Innovation and Investment visa subclasses.

Occupation ceilings for the 2020-21 program year.

The post Occupation ceilings for the 2020-21 program year appeared first on Nowak Migration.

SkillSelect invitation rounds for the financial year 2019-2020

The information has been copied from the Home Affairs website on 26 July 2020 for future reference.

Overview

The post SkillSelect invitation round 11 June 2020 appeared first on Nowak Migration.

Australian Migration Program 2020 – 2021. Planning and Delivery

1. What impact has COVID-19 had on the delivery of the Migration Program?

• Migration continues to make substantial contributions to Australia’s economic prosperity, national wellbeing and social cohesion.
• The Australian Government is closely monitoring migration and visa settings to ensure they are consistent with public health measures, are flexible and do not displace job opportunities for Australians so that Australia can deal with the immediate and post-recovery impacts of COVID-19.
• COVID-19 has had significant impacts on the Department of Home Affairs’
  • Health restrictions implemented in Australia and many other countries have disrupted the Department’s visa processing services; and
  • Travel bans implemented around the world to manage health risks limit arrivals of temporary and permanent migrants to
• Australia’s migration settings are designed to be flexible and respond to changing circumstances, such as COVID-19.
  • The ongoing impacts of the pandemic worldwide, both medically, socially, and economically, will have a significant influence on the shape of Australia’s Migration Program going forward.
• Migration policies must be carefully calibrated to provide employment opportunities for Australians, support critical industries, and position Australia’s economic
• COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the Migration
  • The Government must ensure that migration settings support Australia post recovery from the impacts of COVID-19, and in doing so, the livelihood of Australians who become unemployed as the economic impacts of the COVID-19 crisis deepen also needs to be prioritized.

2. What impact has COVID-19 had on Net Overseas Migration? 

• Border closures have had a significant impact on net overseas
• In comparison to net overseas migration (NOM) for the 2018-19 year, NOM is expected to fall by 30 percent in 2019-20 and even further in 2020-21.
• The Migration Program can change to respond to changing

3. What is the Government doing to ensure the visa system supports COVID-19 response and economic recovery?

• Protecting the health of Australians during the global pandemic is the Australian Government’s priority. Borders will only re-open at a time and in a manner that is safe, guided by health advice, and with secure border arrangements in
• A carefully calibrated migration program is an important part of Australia’s economic recovery and will create jobs and bring investment to help Australia rebound from COVID-19.
  • Migration will be a key component of Australia’s economic
• To date, the Government has shown a commitment to protecting the health of Australians, supporting businesses and jobs, and securing food supply while we combat COVID-19.
• The Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services, and Multicultural Affairs has made a series of announcements in relation to:
  • temporary visa holders;
  • visa options to support the agriculture sector; and
  • student visa work conditions.
• Information is available at https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/staying-australia
• The Government is closely monitoring migration and visa settings to ensure they continue to support public health measures and critical
• Carefully targeted migration for skilled workers who create jobs will help in Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19.

4. When will the Government announce the size and the composition for the 2020-21 Migration Program? 

• In the COVID-19 recovery period, migration will be a key component of Australia’s economic recovery.
• The Australian Government is considering how best to shape the Migration Program to drive economic growth and support job creation during this post recovery
  • This will take into consideration the economic conditions in Australia, future skill needs, changes in the labour market and the population objectives of states and
• Until otherwise advised, the existing 2019-20 Migration Program settings will continue to remain in place. This means the 2020-21 planning ceiling will be retained at 160,000 places, the level set for the 2019-20 Migration
• This includes:
  • 108,682 places for the Skill
  • 47,732 places for the Family
  • 236 places for the Special Eligibility
  • 3,350 places for Child visas

5. Will States and Territories be given any nominations in the 2020-21 Migration Program, or are the State/Territory skilled nominated programs and Business Innovation and Investment Program closed indefinitely?

• The State and Territory nominated visa programs will play an important part in Australia’s economic recovery and continue to be a part of the Migration
• The Australian Government is considering how best to shape the Migration Program into the future to drive economic growth and support job
• Nominations will be made available to States and Territories in line with these considerations, in the following categories:
  • Skilled – Nominated (subclass 190).
  • Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491).
  • Business Innovation and Investment

6. What invitation rounds for Skilled Independent (subclass 189) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Family Sponsored) (subclass 491) continue to be run each month?

• The Government is closely monitoring migration and visa settings to ensure they are consistent with public health measures, are flexible and do not displace job opportunities for Australians so that Australia can deal with the immediate and post recovery impacts of COVID-19.
• Targeted invitation rounds have continued each month and prioritise skills which are in critical need and will aid Australia’s economic

7. What changes will be made to the Migration Program in 2020-21? 

• Until otherwise advised, the existing 2019-20 Migration Program settings, including the program size and composition, will remain in
• The Government’s current focus is dealing with the immediate health and economic impacts of COVID-19.

8. Why did the Government decide to retain the 2019-20 Migration Program settings?

• The Migration Program is generally announced each year as part of the Federal Budget in
  • Due to the Government’s focus on responding to the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis, the 2020-21 Budget was deferred for consideration until October 2020

9. Will stakeholders be consulted ahead of any potential changes to the 2020-21 Migration Program? 

• The Department plans to proceed with engagement with State and Territory governments regarding their nomination allocations for the 2020-21 Migration
• Relevant stakeholders will be advised if any further decisions are made regarding program settings for the 2020-21 Migration

10. Are migrants allowed entry to Australia during this time? If so, how is the health and safety of Australians being protected?

• Decisions by the ABF Commissioner to grant exemptions for travel for compassionate and compelling circumstances must be balanced against the Government’s intent for imposing the travel ban and the health risks posed to the Australian community by international travellers.
• All travellers arriving in Australia by air or sea must be isolated in mandatory quarantine accommodation for 14 days from their arrival, with few
  • For more information see: https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/
• Travellers who have a compassionate or compelling reason to travel to Australia will need to have an exemption from the Australian Border Force
  • Each case is unique and is considered individually based on the information provided in the application, and supporting evidence must be
  • All applications need to be completed in full, translated in English if necessary, with valid and readable documentation attached. Incomplete applications will be returned and this will delay the
  • Each application is considered on its own merit and applicants are informed if further information is required, or why the exemption has been
  • Applications for exemptions must be made at least 48 hours prior to any planned
  • Applications for exemptions are considered according to the date of the planned travel, with priority given to those needing to travel
  • To limit the spread of COVID-19 in the Australian community, from 20 March 2020 all foreign nationals who do not meet the travel exemptions will not be allowed to enter
  • Temporary visa holders currently outside Australia will still need to apply for an exemption to travel to Australia. Those without a valid visa will not be considered for a travel exemption.
• The current travel restrictions have been implemented on the advice of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC).
• These decisions are not taken lightly, but the Government’s priority is to protect the Australian community against the COVID-19
• Only Australian citizens, a permanent residents, immediate family members of an Australian citizen or permanent resident or New Zealand citizens usually resident in Australia can travel to
  • For more information see: https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/
• Immediate family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents who hold a temporary visa will need to provide evidence of their

The post Australia – migration planning levels for 2020-2021 appeared first on Nowak Migration.

BSMQ may open a skilled program in July 2020 with limited quota (TBC by Home Affairs).

Home Affairs’ total nomination allocation for FY20-21 will be announced in October 2020.

Subclass 491 program is still open to onshore applicants and offshore medical professionals. There are still quite a few 491 nominations available. If you’re waiting for 190 to open – you may need to reconsider as chances are 190 visa programm will not be opened before October.

BSMQ is taking a more flexible approach to those who have been stood down, providing they can show a letter of support from an employer to evidence a job will still be available once restrictions ease further.

The 491 SBO program is still open (May 2020).

QSOL’s (Queensland Skilled List of Occupation) are currently being reviewed. No detailed information available now, but significant changes are possible.

New month by month Quota Management System will be introduced in FY 20/21

Home Affairs will release quotas for states in October. QLD may have some limited quota allocated in July – yet to be confirmed.

SKILLED REGIONAL (PROVISIONAL) VISA (SUBCLASS 491)

• State-nominated provisional residency visa
• Pathway to permanent residency – 191
• Live and work full-time in a regional area for 3 years to be eligible for permanent residency
• Receive 15 additional points for state nomination
• Same requirements as subclass 190 nomination (minimum 65 points, under 45 years, positive skills assessment, competent English)
• Onshore requirements: need 3 months’ employment in the nominated occupation in a regional area and 1-year job offer
• Offshore – min. 2 years’ work experience (unless otherwise indicated)
• List of occupations available on BSMQ website

491 – SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS (SBO) PATHWAY

• Use of existing 491 program (must meet 491 requirements).
• Investment of a minimum of 100K in regional business, cost of purchasing a business, but other start-up costs, asset costs, marketing costs can also be included in that $100k.
• It must be a pre-existing business, can’t be a start-up.
• A visa applicant must run the business after purchase for at least 6 months prior to lodging EOI.
• Employ 1 Australian resident. Could be a temporary resident – a minimum of 20 hrs per week. Can be employed any time – it’s OK as long as they’re working at the time of EOI
• Negates the need to be an employee elsewhere
• $100,000 investment – the cost of purchasing a business, but other startup costs, asset costs, marketing costs can also be included in that $100k.

Any questions – book a consultation with our migration agent.

The post Queensland 190 and 491 visa update May 2020 appeared first on Nowak Migration.

This information is only for holders of one of the following Skilled visas

• Skilled Independent (subclass 189)
• Skilled Nominated (subclass 190)
• Skilled Regional (subclass 489)
• Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491)

If you were outside Australia when you were granted one of the above Skilled visas then your visa grant will be subject to visa Condition 8504 which provides that:
The holder must enter Australia as the holder of the visa to which the condition applies before a date specified by the Minister.

This condition requires that each visa holder must make their first entry into Australia before the “For first entry, arrive by” date specified in the “Grant Notification” letter. Under the Migration Act 1958, failure to comply with visa conditions can render a visa liable for cancellation.
Skilled Migration is aware there will be circumstances when you and/or family members (who were granted a visa as part of your application) may not be able to comply with this condition, for example, due to global travel restrictions.
Generally, we will not seek to cancel a Skilled Migration visa where the only reason for doing so would be breach of Condition 8504.

Visa Validity Period
If you are not able to make your first entry into Australia before the “For first entry, arrive by” date you can use this notice when you travel to Australia during the period for which you hold a valid visa. Information about your visa validity period is specified in the “Grant Notification” letter, as the “Must not arrive after date”.
We cannot extend the validity period of your visa, and if your Skilled Migration visa ceases for any reason then you cannot use this notice to enter Australia as the holder of this visa.

Traveling to Australia
When you travel to Australia within the visa validity period you should present this notice to travel providers. This notice should be sufficient evidence for a travel provider to be satisfied that the visa holder can enter Australia as the holder of a Skilled Migration visa. Visa holder(s) may wish to carry a copy of this notice to present to the airline when checking in at the airport and on arrival into Australia. Please note that some delays may be encountered upon arrival into Australia while visa validity is verified.

Comment from Migration Agent – I’d suggest to contact Home Affairs and ask them for formal confirmation that 1st date of entry has been extended. An airline might not let you board the plane in case of any doubts if you’ll be allowed to enter Australia.

Any questions – we’re here to help.

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Business and Skilled Migration Queensland Manager Greg McKean advised during MIA conference in May 2019 that a new 489 SBO visa (Small Business Owner) stream will be available for people who are or will be running a business in regional Queensland.

It took a while but as of 11 Dec 2019 all the requirements are finally available.

What was initially advertised as 489 Small Business Owner visa became a 491 Small Business Owner visa as 489 visa has been closed to new applications.

491 SBO visa requirements

BSMQ criteria requirements for 491 SBO visa:

• have an occupation on Legislative instrument (LIN 19/051)
• have prior business experience or qualifications to successfully run the business (or have previously been involved in a family-run business)
• be on a visa that allows full-time work and operation of the business for a minimum of 35 hours per week (for example: 485 visa, dependant on 457 or 482 visa, dependant on student visa where primary applicant does a master course, working holiday visa, work and holiday visa)
• have purchased an existing business in regional Queensland (Note: not available for start-ups or home based businesses)
• paid a minimum of $100,000 for the business
• have 100% ownership of the business (partnerships or joint ventures not eligible)
• be trading in the business for 6 months prior to application
• employ one (1) employee who is an Australian resident working a minimum of 20 hours per week
• provide evidence of sufficient settlement funds.

Home Affairs criteria for 491 SBO visa

Criteria are the same as for “standard” 491 visa. The Home Affairs criteria requires you to:

• have a points test result of 65 or higher, inclusive of state nomination points
• have a positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation
• be under 45 years of age
• meet the minimum English language requirement of COMPETENT, unless a higher level is required by your assessing authority
• submit additional documents if invited to lodge an application for a subclass 491 visa (SWR visa) .

What is regional Queensland?

All ocations outside Brisbane are considered a regional Queensland fo this visa. Applicable postcodes are: 4124 to 4125, 4133, 4183 to 4184, 4207 to 4275, 4280 to 4287, 4306 to 4498, 4507, 4517 to 4519, 4550 to 4575, 4580 to 4895

How many 491 SBO visas will be granted?

It’s just an estimate but it looks that Queensland has been awarded 2000 places for subclass 190 visa and subclass 489/491 visa for financial year 2019/2020. The pool of 2000 places will probably be split 30% for SC 190 and  70% for 489 and 491 visas.

491 SBO visa documents checklist

If you meet Queensland State Nomination requirements, you will be invited by BSMQ to lodge further documentation:

• Application form
• Settlement funds declaration form
• Bank statement (personal)
• Skills assessment
• Commitment statement
• Evidence of business management
• Evidence of academic qualification
• Evidence of business ownership/registration documents (contract of sale and ABN/ACN/ASIC)
• Evidence of Australian resident employee (not a family member, or a subcontractor)
• Evidence business has been operating for 6 months (BAS statements)
• VEVO
• Utility bill or lease agreement

Doest the business have to be related to my occupation?

Simply speaking – no, business does not need have to be related to your nominated occupation. but you still must show business experience or a qualification to show you will are able to successfully run the business.

Whom to contact for further details about 491 SBO visa.

Our agency has quite an experience with business and skilled visa applications. Give us a call if you’d like to discuss your situation.

How to make an application for an 491 SBO visa

Follow the cues below and you may stand a chance fr 49 SBO visa grant (not mecessarily in the given order)

1. Make sure you’ll qualify for 491 visa at all
   1. Get a skills assessment done
   2. Pass an english test on competent level
   3. Make sure you’ll get 65 points
2. Make sure you have a visa with full time work rights for at least another 6 months +
3. Buy an existing business (no startups allowed, you must be the sole owner) in regional Queensland for $100,000 + (they’ll check the sale contract and money transfer)
4. Run the business for 6 months (remember you must employ at least one Aussie for at least 20 hrs per week and that person can’t be your family mamber)
5. lodge an EOI through skillselect
6. fill the BSMQ 491 SBO form
7. once invited by BSMQ to provide evidence – upload all the documents to their portal (you’ll get the link in an email)
8. wait for BSMQ decision –
   1. if positive you’ll get an email from skillselect with a link to lodge a 491 visa application
   2. if negative you’ll get an email from BSMQ
9. If a QLD nomination has been issued – follow the link and apply for a 491 visa.
10. any doubts in any stage – call us for assistance.

Where can I find a business for sale in Queensland for 491 SBO visa?

We also work with business brokers. Give us a call we’ll see if we’d be able to help.

What are the other migration news for Queensland?

• For business visas and investor visas 670 places have been allocated by Home Affairs to Queensland all together.
• a new DAMA visa labour agreement will be available for businesses in Far North Queensland (Cairns and surrounds)
• BSMQ has launched an awareness campaign and advertised Brisbane region as a destination to invest during recent South East Asia roadshows. Have a look at the video below to see where we are heading.

Remember to subscribe to our newsletter if you want to be the first to know about Australian migration news.

The post 491 SBO visa Queensland | 491 Small Business Owner visa appeared first on Nowak Migration.

Let’s start this article by stating the obvious: It is an offense against Australian immigration and labor laws to employ, refer or contract an illegal foreign worker in the country.

In some cases, the offense is not just a simple civil case; it can sometimes be criminal in nature.  As such the consequences are scary.

We know, we know.  You don’t want to be branded as an employer of unlawful foreign workers.  For one, it will have an adverse impact on your business and on your dignity as a person.  Secondly, it does not come cheap: the penalty for you as a company can go as high as 200,000 plus AUD per illegal worker.

The sadder thing is, you may still be held liable for the act regardless of whether you know the workers have work rights or not.

The option of hiring non-citizens

Employing skilled foreign citizens can sometimes be the only left for you to resort to, especially at a time when the local labor market of Australia cannot cope with the demand for workers trained and experienced to take on the jobs in your company.

It would have been easier and more convenient to hire local workforce since the requirements are fewer and the process is less cumbersome than to source out talent from overseas.  But this is not possible in a country where economic growth outruns the speed in training its people.

While at that, we are not saying the Commonwealth Government is not doing its part to address the shortage of skilled workers.  On the contrary, it is taking the bull by its horns, so to speak. One measure it is undertaking is the massive training of its citizens geared towards equipping them to assume the roles in the different industries all over the country.  This is the main reason the Skilling Australians Fund (SAF) is instituted.

The downside of it, though, is it may take some more time before they could reach the point where they don’t have to rely on foreign workers to make the many businesses running.

Hence, in the meantime, the status quo stays.

Don’t forget to follow us on facebook if you like it here, so you’ll be first to know about updates on this page.

The advantages of employing foreign skilled workers

 While the country is hard pressed to supply the businesses with qualified local workers, skilled foreign nationals are aching to come to Australia to work and make a new start with their family, parents, and relatives.

They are drawn towards the country because of the benefits, privileges, and amenities that majority of them could not find in their home countries.  While here, they cannot only work, they can also enjoy the countless tourist destinations hereabout; let their children study in world-class universities, and many other perks while being in Australia – all of these while earning much more than what they could possibly earn in their own countries.

And these workers are highly skilled in their line of work, bringing with them fresh ideas on how to do things – the exact qualifications Australia is looking for.

Sometimes, scouting for them may not even take you to the countries of their birth.  Many of them are already here.  Take for instance the international students.  Certain student visas have work rights, which make their holders a valuable source of the needed labor.

Too, foreign visitors on holiday visas have certain work rights.  In fact, they are encouraged by the Australian government to find short-term or casual work in certain industries while spending their time here.  Even the refugees holding either subclass 866 or all subclass 200s are allowed to live and work in the country as permanent residents

Visas that have work rights

There are many types of Australian visas.  So, it is but imperative for you to find out which ones provide work rights for their holders.  In so doing, you won’t get into the pitfall of employing unlawful workers.

So, what are the visas whose holders are allowed to work in the country?

• 457 visa or Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa

Visa 457, which is now replaced by Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, needs no further introduction.  It occupies the top level of the totem pole when it comes to Australian work visas being availed of by foreign workers.  A good number of skilled foreign nationals now enjoying their lives in the country are in a possession of this visa.  Many of them even acquire Australian citizenship in the process.

As if the benefits and privileges of 457 visa or TSS visa are not enough, the dependents of the main applicants are also afforded full work rights in Australia.  These are the spouses or partners of the nominated worker, their children, parents, and even some relatives.

• Student visas

As we have already mentioned earlier, student visas of international enrollees in different universities all over the country have work rights.  The number of hours may be limited while the semester is ongoing, but they can work full time during semester break.  For more information on the work rights of student visa holders, please click student visa working hours.

More on the international students, once they complete their studies in the country, they have the choice to apply for a temporary subclass 485 visa.  This visa has full work rights and may be valid for up to four years depending on the course that the students have completed.

• Holidaymaker visas (Working Holiday and Work and Holiday visas)

Most foreign guests who are here on holidays usually hit two birds with one stone.  While they are here to have a blast, they are also given the right to work full time on short contracts.

• Temporary partner visas

Another precious source of qualified workers for the different industries is the holders of temporary partner visas.  They are granted full work rights.

• Bridging visas

Temporary visa holders who are in a possession of various types of bridging visas constitute another group of non-citizens from whom the local businesses can tap for the needed talent.

The abovementioned types of visa are just some of the many visas that grant work rights to their holders.  There are still many.

The role of VEVO

We know already that this and that visa has work rights while others don’t have.  The question now is this: How can you ascertain if a particular foreign employee of yours has work rights at certain times in the duration of their contract with you?

At the start of their employment with you, you know that their visas have work rights.  The problem is this: You would not have any idea if the status of the visa of your employee has changed while they are working for you.

For example, a worker in possession of a temporary partner visa that has work rights may have separated with their partner, thereby losing their work rights in the process; or a student visa holder who is no longer enrolled in an eligible university; or a dependent of a TSS visa holder whose main applicant just lost their job, and so on and so forth.

Overstaying non-citizens are another risk factor in employing foreign workers.  Some may have served you for so long that you feel confident that you are employing legal workers without knowing that they are already staying in the country unlawfully.

Passports are not the reliable source of information about the visa of a non-citizen as they don’t have the details of the visa.

The best way to verify these pieces of information is to check them through the Visa Entitlement Verification Online or VEVO.  This is a free online service of the Department of Home Affairs which is available 24/7, seven days a week.

VEVO holds the details of one’s visa including the conditions, limitations and work rights.  If you wish to know more information about VEVO, please click visa details online check.

A problem about time and work requirement

 Who would wish to employ unlawful foreign workers?  Nobody does, it seems.

Neither are you, of course.

In fact, you are willing to check the VEVO from time to time just to make sure each and every non-citizen under your jurisdiction has work rights.  Unfortunately, though, given your workload and the time required in overseeing the operations of your business, you may not be able to do it.

Nowak Migration can verify the work rights of your workers

If you really don’t want to have a brush with the law, talk to us at Nowak Migration.  We can help you check the work rights of your foreign employees regularly.

Yes, we just don’t do Australian visas.  We extend various other services for your business.  Regular verification of the work rights of your foreign workers is one of them.  There are more.

Mention your business requirement to us and we will assist you with it.  We are able to undertake other non-immigration tasks for you because we are maintaining a first-rate network of professionals and experts from other fields.  That way, you don’t have to source out the services that you need yourselves.  The moment you keep in touch with us, you’ll find answers to your business-related concerns.

We work with talents from such diverse industries as real estate, business law, accounting and auditing, insurance, transportation, education, and others.

Should you decide to avail of our services, you will no longer worry about breaking some Australian laws as to your responsibilities as an employer of non-citizens.  You will have more time then to focus on the operations of your business and other concerns.  That would be a lot of work being unloaded from your shoulders.

With Nowak Migration, you and your company/organization remain protected from the possibility that you could break immigration and labor laws by keeping unlawful foreign workers.

So, remain protected and legal – avail of our services.

We urge you then to pick up your phone now and call us for booking or consultation.  Our contact information can be found anywhere on our website.  Just choose the most convenient means through which to communicate with us.

If you want to keep abreast of the developments on Australian migration as well as on the overall business situation of the country, please subscribe to our newsletter by filling out the form below.  Don’t worry about spam; we take extra care of your privacy as you do.

Finally, if you think this article can help someone you know, please share it with them through any or all of the social media sites that we are using.  We will certainly appreciate your effort.

The post How to verify work rights of foreign workers appeared first on Nowak Migration.

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Occupational English Test (OET)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test (also known as Certificate in Advanced English).

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Exemptions from an English test:

• Holders of passports: Canada, USA, United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand – all visas
• For some work visas and student visas studying in English on prescribed schooling level at least 5 years should do the trick
• Labor agreement – depends on the agreement between Australian Government Agency and a company sponsoring for a visa
• Level of salary – for some work visas where a sponsor is an overseas business English might not be required.

Tests accepted by a department:

• IELTS
• TOEFL iBT
• Cambridge CAE
• Pearson (PTE)
• OET (only for healthcare)

Results of the test

• Bands
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Listening
  • Speaking
• Overall

Family visas

English is not a criterium

482 visa

• 4-year visa – Vocational
• 2-year visa – IELTS 5 overall, any band not less than 4.5 (or equivalent)

186 & 187 visas

• Direct Entry – competent
• 186 TRT – competent
• 187 TRT – competent or 5 years study

Skilled 189, 190 and 489 visas

• Minimum competent.

Student visa

• 5.5 academic
• If 5.0 10 weeks of ELICOS required
• If 4.5 20 weeks of ELICOS required
• There are some exemptions

Book a consultation if you need to discuss your situation.

The post Which English language tests ✍️ are accepted by Australian Immigration appeared first on Nowak Migration.