Why Australia?
Australia, often called the “Island Continent,” is a land where the sky’s the limit. With its rich multicultural diversity and varied ethnic backgrounds, the country is on the fast track to economic growth and offers a top-notch quality of life. Recognized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development as one of the world’s strongest economies, Australia is a top choice for immigrants and students seeking higher education.
The country enjoys a mild climate, with winters as cool as a cucumber and summers that are a breath of fresh air. Surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans, it is home to the world’s largest coral reef. Australia’s landscapes are as varied as a mixed bag, ranging from tropical rainforests in the north to arid deserts in the center, and snowfields in the southeast, stretching to the Australian Antarctic Territory. Australia is a gem of a place known for its stunning scenery, remarkable outback areas, and beaches, which contribute to 10 percent of the world’s biodiversity. Its unique flora and fauna, found nowhere else on Earth, create a remarkable environment. The country also boasts several World Heritage sites, including the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, and the iconic Sydney Opera House, making it a must-see destination.
Thanks to its welcoming nature and plentiful job opportunities, cities like Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Perth, and Melbourne have become bustling business hubs. Australia’s economy thrives on diverse sectors including agriculture, education, mining-related exports, manufacturing, telecommunications, banking, and IT industries. The country’s remarkable economic boom has led to significant industrial expansion, creating a gold mine of career opportunities for skilled migrants.
Australia is celebrating its 28th consecutive year of economic growth, with its GDP reaching new heights and setting a new benchmark for uninterrupted expansion among developed economies. Cosmos is here to guide you through the migration process, offering support from the ground up—from counseling and document verification to visa applications and beyond. It’s no wonder Australia is the third most popular destination for international students in the English-speaking world, behind only the United States and the UK. The country’s cultural melting pot, friendly locals, and top-tier education make it a standout choice for students.
In the year ending September 30, 2019, Australia saw an influx of 534,100 immigrants, marking an increase of 3,100 people (0.6%) from the previous year.
Immigration Categories
Skilled migration permit
The Australia Skilled Migration Permit allows skilled professionals to live and work in Australia permanently. This permit is designed for individuals with the skills and qualifications in high demand in the Australian job market. The key subclasses under this permit category include:
Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Permit)
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Permit)
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Permit)
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Australia Skilled Migration Permit, you need to meet the following criteria:
1 Age: Be under 45 years old when you receive an invitation.
2 English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate your English skills through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment from a relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
Occupation: Your occupation must be listed on the relevant skilled occupation list.
Points Test: Score at least 65 points on the points test, which evaluates factors like age, education, work experience, and language abilities.
Required Documents
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Skills Assessment Report: A positive assessment from an authorized authority related to your occupation.
- English Language Proficiency: Provide results from IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through Skill Select.
- Educational Certificates: Certified copies of your educational qualifications, including degree certificates and transcripts.
- Work Experience Documents: Detailed employment references, job descriptions, and payslips.
- Health and Character Documents:
- Health Examination: Conducted by an approved panel physician.
- Police Clearance Certificates: From all countries where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
- Proof of Identity: Documents such as birth certificates and national IDs.
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, and joint financial documents if applying with family members.
- Financial Capacity: Evidence of your ability to support yourself and your dependents financially.
Application Process
- Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the requirements.
- Submit an EOI: File an Expression of Interest through Skill Select.
- Receive an Invitation: Wait for an invitation to apply for the permit.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather and organize all necessary paperwork.
- Lodge Your Application: Submit your application online.
Await Decision: Wait for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs.
Investor Immigration
The Australia Investor Permit enables high-net-worth individuals to invest in the Australian economy and obtain permanent residency. This permit is aimed at business owners and investors who can make a substantial contribution to the Australian economic landscape. The main categories under this permit include:
- Subclass 188 (Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Permit)
- Subclass 888 (Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Permit)
Key Categories
- Subclass 188 (Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Permit): This is a temporary permit that allows you to establish and manage a new or existing business, or invest in Australia, to obtain a permanent permit later.
- Subclass 888 (Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Permit): This is the permanent counterpart to the Subclass 188 permit, granted to those who have successfully met the conditions of their provisional permit and are now eligible for permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Australia Investor Permit, you generally need to meet the following requirements:
Net Worth: Demonstrate a significant net worth, often including personal and business assets.
Investment Amount: Show a commitment to investing a substantial amount in the Australian economy.
Business Experience: Prove substantial business or investment experience.
English Language Proficiency: Although not always mandatory, a basic understanding of English can be beneficial.
Health and Character Requirements: Meet health and character standards.
Required Documents
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Evidence of Net Worth: Documentation proving your financial status, including personal and business assets.
- Investment Evidence: Proof of your intended investment in Australia, such as bank statements or investment agreements.
- Business Experience: Documents supporting your business experience, including company records and financial statements.
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through Skill Select.
- Health Examination: Conducted by an approved panel physician.
- Police Clearance Certificates: From all countries where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
- Proof of Identity: Identity documents such as birth certificates and national IDs.
Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, and joint financial documents if applying with family members.
Application Process
- Check Your Eligibility: Confirm that you meet all the requirements for the investor permit.
- Submit an EOI: File an Expression of Interest through Skill Select.
- Receive an Invitation: Wait for an invitation to apply for the permit.
- Prepare Your Documents: Collect and organize all required documentation.
- Lodge Your Application: Submit your application online.
- Await Decision: Wait for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs.
This permit is an excellent option for high-net-worth individuals looking to make a significant economic contribution to Australia while securing long-term residency.
Student Immigration
The Australia Student Permit allows international students to study full-time at an Australian educational institution while residing in Australia. This permit is designed for individuals who wish to pursue educational qualifications or training programs in Australia.
Key Features
- Study and Work Rights: Allows you to study full-time and work part-time during your stay.
Family Members: May allow certain family members to accompany you on the permit, subject to specific conditions
Subclasses
bclass 500 (Student Permit): This is the primary permit for international students enrolling in full-time study programs at recognized Australian institutions.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Australia Student Permit, you generally need to meet the following criteria:
- Enrolled in an Eligible Course: Provide evidence of enrolment in a full-time course at a registered Australian educational institution.
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Demonstrate that you are genuinely intending to stay in Australia temporarily to study.
- Financial Capacity: Show proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel costs.
- English Language Proficiency: Depending on the course, you may need to prove your English proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
- Health Insurance: Obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.
- Health and Character Requirements: Meet specific health and character criteria, including medical examinations and police clearance.
Required Documents
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in Australia.
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Provide a CoE from your Australian educational institution.
- Financial Evidence: Documents proving you have adequate funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
- English Language Proficiency: Test results from IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic (if applicable).
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Proof of health insurance coverage.
- Health Examination: Conducted by an approved panel physician.
- Police Clearance Certificates: May be required if you have lived in a country other than your home country for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
- Proof of Identity: Documents such as birth certificates and national IDs.
- Genuine Temporary Entrant Statement: A statement explaining your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes.
Application Process
- Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria for the Student Permit.
- Obtain a CoE: Enrol in an eligible course and obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment from your institution.
- Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents as outlined above.
- Submit Your Application: Apply online through the ImmiAccount portal or a registered migration agent.
- Await Decision: Wait for a decision from the Department of Home Affairs.
Key Points
- Part-Time Work Rights: Students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic session and full-time during holidays.
- Family Members: Your dependents can apply to join you if you meet specific requirements.
This permit provides a pathway for international students to gain valuable educational experience in Australia while allowing for limited work opportunities to support themselves during their studies.
Visit permit
Australia Visitor Permit
The Australia Visitor Permit allows individuals to travel to Australia for tourism, business visits, or to visit family and friends.
Key Subclasses
Subclass 600 (Visitor Permit): For tourism, business, or to visit family.
Eligibility Criteria
- Purpose: Must intend to visit Australia temporarily for tourism, business, or visiting family.
- Financial Capacity: Demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay.
- Health and Character: Meet health and character requirements.
Required Documents
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for your stay.
- Travel Itinerary: Proof of travel plans or accommodation.
- Financial Evidence: Proof of funds to cover your stay.
- Health Examination: May be required.
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all requirements.
- Gather Documents: Collect required documents.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the ImmiAccount portal.
- Await Decision: Wait for processing and decision.
This permit is ideal for short stays, typically up to 3, 6, or 12 months.