How to immigrate to Australia: A comprehensive guide

Australia is a land of immense opportunity, known for its robust economy, high living standards, and vibrant multicultural society.

If you’re considering moving to Australia, this guide will provide you with the essential information, from migration pathways to financial considerations.

Pathways to Migrate to Australia with Family

Migrating to Australia with your family requires selecting the right visa category that suits your qualifications and family needs. Here are common options:

1. Skilled Migration (General Skilled Migration – GSM):
   • Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent Visa): Suitable for skilled workers who do not need employer or state sponsorship.
   • Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa): Requires nomination by a state or territory.
   • Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa): For skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia.
2. Family Stream Visas:
   • Partner Visas (Subclass 820 and 801): For spouses or de facto partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
   • Parent Visas (Subclass 103 or 143): For parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
   • Child Visa (Subclass 101): For dependent children of Australian citizens or permanent residents.
3. Employer-Sponsored Visas: If you secure a job offer in Australia, your employer can sponsor your visa. This often extends to family members.

Skilled Migration to Australia

The General Skilled Migration program is the most popular pathway for professionals. This category is based on a points test, assessing factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Key Requirements for Skilled Migration:

1. Occupation in Demand: Check the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to confirm your job is in demand.
2. Skills Assessment: Obtain a positive assessment from the relevant skills authority for your profession.
3. Points Requirement: Score at least 65 points on the points test. Points are awarded based on age, qualifications, work experience, and more.
4. English Language Proficiency: Pass tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
5. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit your profile through the SkillSelect system.
6. Invitation to Apply: Wait for an invitation to apply for the visa.

Requirements to Migrate to Australia

General Requirements:

1. Health Assessment: Pass a health examination to meet Australia’s stringent medical standards.
2. Character Requirements: Obtain a police clearance certificate to confirm a clean criminal record.
3. Proof of Funds: Demonstrate sufficient financial resources, especially for family visas.
4. English Proficiency: A minimum score in recognized language tests like IELTS or PTE.
5. Age Limit: For most skilled visas, you must be under 45 years old.

How to Immigrate to Australia from Kenya

Steps to Migrate:

1. Identify Your Visa Category: Determine if you qualify under the skilled migration, family visa, or employer sponsorship pathways.
2. Check Your Occupation: Refer to Australia’s SOL to see if your profession is in demand.
3. Skills Assessment: Obtain a skills assessment from the relevant authority.
4. IELTS or PTE Test: Take an English proficiency test.
5. EOI Submission: Register your interest through SkillSelect.
6. Secure Employment (Optional): Start applying for jobs in Australia, which can bolster your application.
7. Apply for a Visa: Once invited, submit the required documents and pay the visa fee.

How to Get a Job in Australia from Kenya:

• Use platforms like Seek, Indeed, and LinkedIn to search for job openings.
• Tailor your resume to Australian standards.
• Network through professional groups and forums.
• Consult recruitment agencies specializing in hiring overseas candidates.

Financial Requirements

The cost of migration depends on your visa type and family size. Here are typical expenses:

1. Visa Fees:
   • Subclass 189/190: AUD 4,640 for the main applicant, plus additional charges for dependents.
   • Subclass 491: AUD 4,240 for the main applicant.
2. Skills Assessment Fees: Approximately AUD 300–1,000 depending on your profession.
3. English Test: AUD 300–400 for IELTS or PTE.
4. Medical Examination: AUD 300–500 per person.
5. Settlement Funds: While not mandatory for all visas, it is advisable to have at least AUD 15,000–20,000 as a safety net.

How to Move to Australia Permanently

Permanent residency can be achieved through skilled migration or family reunification. Once a permanent resident, you can enjoy benefits like free public healthcare, access to public education, and the ability to sponsor family members.

Pathway to Citizenship:

1. Reside in Australia as a permanent resident for four years.
2. Pass a citizenship test and meet residency requirements.
3. Apply for citizenship and attend a citizenship ceremony.

Case Study: Migrating from India and Kenya

From India:

Ravi, an IT professional, applied for a Subclass 189 visa. He:

1. Checked his occupation on the SOL.
2. Passed a skills assessment with the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
3. Scored high on the IELTS test.
4. Submitted an EOI with 75 points and received an invitation.
5. After securing the visa, Ravi moved with his family to Melbourne.

From Kenya:

Grace, a nurse, pursued a Subclass 190 visa. She:

1. Identified her profession on the SOL.
2. Passed a skills assessment from the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC).
3. Scored well on IELTS.
4. Was nominated by the state of Victoria.
5. Migrated with her spouse and two children, settling in regional Australia.

Conclusion

Migrating to Australia is a structured process requiring careful planning. By choosing the right visa pathway, meeting eligibility criteria, and preparing financially, you can make your Australian dream a reality.

Whether you’re in Kenya or India, the steps are similar, but leveraging resources and networking locally can smoothen the journey.

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