Frequently asked questions

We discuss your background, goals and timeframe, explain the visa options that may be available to you, and outline the next steps, documents and likely costs involved. It helps to have your passport, qualifications, work history and any current visa details to hand.

No. Visa decisions are made by the Department of Home Affairs, and no migration agent can guarantee an outcome. What we can do is give you honest advice about your prospects and help you prepare a complete, well-supported application.

No. You can apply for an Australian visa yourself. Many people choose a registered migration agent for help understanding their options, preparing evidence and communicating with the Department.

Fees depend on the visa and the complexity of your matter. Before any work begins, you receive a written agreement and estimate of fees, which is separate from government application charges.

Yes. Australian migration law, occupation lists and visa requirements change regularly, sometimes with little notice. This is one reason to get advice based on current rules before you apply.

The Department of Home Affairs publishes current processing times on its website. Times vary by visa and change regularly.

View official processing times (opens in a new tab)

Not always. Some skilled visas are points-tested and do not require an employer sponsor, although nomination by a state or territory government may be needed. Other pathways are employer sponsored. The right option depends on your occupation and circumstances.

An Expression of Interest (EOI) is submitted through SkillSelect to show you want to be considered for a skilled visa. Lodging an EOI is not a visa application: you need an invitation before you can apply.

Generally, a new employer needs to lodge a nomination before you start working for them, and your visa conditions continue to apply. Get advice before changing jobs so you do not breach your visa conditions.

Yes. Sponsors must meet ongoing obligations, such as keeping records and paying the nominated salary, and penalties can apply if they do not.

Student visas usually allow limited work during study periods. Work conditions are set by the Department and can change, so check your visa conditions and the current rules before taking on work.

Eligible family members may be able to be included in your student visa application, subject to requirements including financial capacity and health insurance.

Requirements differ for married and de facto couples. De facto partners generally need to show they have lived together for at least 12 months before applying, unless an exception applies, such as a registered relationship.

Possibly. Couples can live apart for periods, but you will need to explain why and show that your relationship is genuine and continuing.

It applies to parent visas. Generally, at least half of the parent's children must usually live in Australia, or more of their children must live in Australia than in any other single country.

Visitor visas, including longer-stay options for parents, may be available. They are temporary, and their conditions matter if you later apply for another visa.

Generally no. Visitor visas do not permit work. Limited business visitor activities, such as attending meetings or conferences, may be allowed depending on the visa.

It depends on your visa conditions. With a 'no further stay' condition you generally cannot apply for most other visas while in Australia. Get advice before you travel if you have a longer-term plan.

There is a deadline for applying after you complete your course, and missing it can mean losing eligibility. Seek advice well before you finish your studies.

The graduate visa itself is temporary. Some graduates later qualify for skilled or employer sponsored visas, depending on their occupation, experience and other requirements.

Some business and investment programs have closed to new applications, while other pathways remain open. Because settings change, check the current options before planning around a particular visa.

The Department of Home Affairs defines designated regional areas by postcode. The definition is broader than many people expect and includes some larger cities, so check the official list for your intended location.

Regional provisional visas require you to live, work and study in a designated regional area. Not complying can affect your visa and your eligibility for permanent residence.

The residence requirement involves a period of lawful residence in Australia, including a minimum period as a permanent resident, with limits on time spent overseas. Use the official residence calculator and seek advice if your travel history is complex.

Australia allows dual citizenship, but your other country may not. Check the laws of your other country of citizenship before applying.