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Migration News - immigration requirements and advice for Australia.
 
 

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General Skilled Migration Program Reopens and States Follow On

As of 1st July 2010, the offshore General Skilled Migration subclasses that closed in May 2010 have officially re-opened. Applications are now being accepted from 01 July 2010 in the following subclasses:

  • Subclass 175 (Skilled – Independent),
  • Subclass 176 (Skilled – Sponsored), and
  • Subclass 475 (Skilled – Regional Sponsored)

To coincide with these developments, DIAC (Australia’s Dep’t of Immigration & Citizenship) has introduced new application forms and fees. (Ask your consultant for details).

Also on 1st July 2010, the federal government’s new Skilled Occupations List (SOL) (click to view) officially came into effect. All applicants applying for skilled migration must now nominate an occupation on the SOL in the new ANZSCO code.  Those applicants whose occupations were on the old SOL but are not on the new SOL can consider making an application under the State Migration Plans.

As yet, the General Skilled Migration Points Test remains unchanged with the re-opening of the off-shore GSM subclasses, so applicants are still awarded points for their occupations. (See New SOL list). The Points Test is currently under review and the results of the review may be published later this year. The Minister, Senator Chris Evans, explained “I have asked my Department to look at introducing a new system where applicants initially put forward their claim for skilled migration, and are then selected as candidates by employers, by State and Territory governments, or by the Commonwealth. That way we marry demand with supply, the best outcome for all concerned or in other words immigration is the job matching agency for the nation, connecting employers to the global labour market where skills cannot be sourced locally”.

If you are in a position to meet the current pass mark for your relevant visa subclass, you are strongly recommended to complete all the requirements and provide all the requested documentation as soon as possible. Changes later in the year may have an adverse affect to your position. Contact your MIGRATION BUREAU consultant now.

Skills Assessments Authority Transitional Arrangements
All applications for skilled migration must be made in an eligible occupation according to the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). If you possess a skills assessment from a relevant skills assessing authority issued prior to 01 July 2010 in an ASCO code, you should check the official DIAC correlation table to determine the correct occupational classification. Correlation table of occupations from ASCO to ANZSCO.

State Migration Plans

These plans are now under development with most states and territories anticipating that their Skills In Demand lists will be in place in the next couple of months. (ACT specifies 1st August, others don’t specify). Each State and Territory will be able to specify occupations outside the main SOL, under which applicants are encouraged to apply. Currently, most states and territories have temporarily suspended sponsorships until their new State Migration Plans are announced.

New South Wales introduced its Skills In Demand list (in the new ANZSCO codes) on 1st July 2010 and will be nominating applicants with high level skills and experience for both state-wide and regional skilled visas. Health professionals, Finance, ICT, Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology, Sustainable Environmental Technologies, Engineering, and Trade occupations are the main areas of sponsorship to NSW. New NSW List

Grant King, Director of MIGRATION BUREAU commented, "NSW have opened up options for certain highly skilled occupations (i.e. Accountants and Architects etc) to move to Sydney with state sponsorship for the first time which is good news. The NSW Government have established essentially a new tier of regions in NSW, mostly those regions further away from Sydney and inland, and the NSW Government will now consider state sponsorship of applicants in selected occupations to these "third tier" regions".

If you can obtain an  offer of skilled employment in your nominated occupation, this is likely to greatly improve your position and may also allow you to consider an application under the Employer Nomination Scheme or Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme. These visas are processed with priority, which is generally 2-3 months, or even sooner in most cases where the application is decision ready.

Contact your MIGRATION BUREAU consultant now.

For a free, no-obligation test (5-10 mins) of your eligibility to emigrate to Australia, please click here.


Victoria Delays its State Migration Plan till 1st September

Due to the forthcoming federal election in Australia, the Victorian State Government have advised that its State Migration Plan will be implemented no earlier than 1 September 2010.  Once the SMP is implemented, the new sponsorship eligibility list for skilled migrants and full details will also be made available. Only occupations included on Victoria’s skilled sponsorship eligibility list will be considered for nomination.  Applications for business visa sponsorship are still being accepted.

For advice on Australian immigration opportunities, contact Migration Bureau.

For a free no-obligation test (5-10 mins) of your eligibility to emigrate to Australia, click here.

Record Number of New Settlers Flock to Sunny Brisbane

20/07/10

Brisbane, capital of Queensland on the Eastern Coast of Australia, is proving consistently popular with new settlers moving from the UK looking for a better lifestyle.

Amongst its many attractions, the year-round warm weather obviously ranks highly, combined with the close proximity of the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast beaches. In a recent BBC report (News Magazine July 2010), recent immigrants also praised the city's excellent public education system, which makes it an ideal place for young families.

John Aitken, head of Brisbane Marketing, highlights the "relaxed, outdoor lifestyle that few cities in the world can offer". He also highlights the collaborative business style as the biggest attraction for more than 1,000 new arrivals on a weekly basis, with this in turn fuelling a vibrant social scene. "This rapid growth has delivered new entertainment precincts, an exciting live-music scene and quaint urban villages… with a beautiful river, natural bay and scenic rim at our doorstep."

For information on emigrating to Brisbane, please contact Migration Bureau, and for a FREE test of your eligibility to emigrate to Australia, please click here.

Important: Australian Skilled Occupation Announcements

The Australian Government has today confirmed that its new Skilled Occupations List for the General Skilled Migrant category has come into effect. The suspension on applications that has been in force since March has now been lifted. Anyone considering emigrating to Australia should contact their registered migration agent for details of lodging their residence visa application.

Also, New South Wales has today announced its State Migration Plan including the occupations list for Skilled Sponsored Visa Subclass 176 and 475. Other states are set to follow in the near future, allowing prospective emigrants further opportunities for regional migration as an alternative to the federal options.

For details of the new changes, please contact:-

For a free initial test (5-10 mins) of your eligibility to emigrate to Australia, please click here.


Australian Government halves its Skilled Occupations List

..but more options if you can obtain a relevant, qualifying job offer.

The Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, has announced the intended new Skilled Occupation List, which will come into force on 1st July 2010. The new list reinforces the Rudd Government’s commitment to a labour market demand-driven skilled migration program.

Graeme Fraser, spokesman for the Migration Bureau, emphasised “The new list outlines greater opportunities for those with specified occupations, and for those not on the new SOL list, we can offer alternatives including the Employer Nomination Scheme and Regional Sponsorship. Our Jobseeker Programme is ideally placed to assist our clients with these visa classes.”

“Anyone considering emigration to Australia should apply now that the Government has clarified the situation, and before any future changes”.

For more information on the new SOL list see below, or contact the Migration Bureau now.
For the complete SOL list - click here.
For a FREE “Quick Check” of your eligibility for Australian emigration – click here.

Summary of the SOL changes

  • The new list is specific to the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program and does not apply to employer-sponsored permanent or temporary visas (eg. ENS, RSMS or Subclass 457).
  • The new list reflects the Australian Government’s focus on employer sponsored migration as “the best method to ensure the labour market gets the skills it needs”. In addition, it highlights that “the number of places available to independent skilled migrants in the skilled migration program is expected to fall as the number of places available for employer-sponsored skilled migrants increases. It is therefore important that the smaller number of independent skilled migration places that are available are filled by migrants with (high value, nation-building) skills that are critical to Australia’s economic development in the medium to long term” and “where the cost to the economy & local communities of the skill being in short supply is great”.
    Overall it is proposed that the quota for Skilled Migration increases by 6,000 – comprising approximately 9,500 additional employer-sponsored visa places, and a reduction of 3,500 GSM visa places.
  • The number of occupations listed on the SOL list has reduced from 400, down to 181.
    DIAC explains: “The new list is smaller as it is intended to deliver a GSM program that is more tightly focused on high value skills that would assist in addressing Australia’s future medium & long-term skills needs”
  • It’s likely that the SOL list will be reviewed annually and there are no guarantees as to what occupations will feature on it in future.
  • DIAC has also announced limited transitional arrangements for some international students who are currently studying in Australia and who intend to apply for a permanent residence visa at the completion of their studies. These arrangements would allow them extra time to find employer sponsorship towards permanent residence.

DIAC has also advised several possible options for people who now find that they are not able to apply for general skilled migration (GSM) once the new SOL is implemented.
Amongst these are;-

1) To apply for a temporary or permanent visa under the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS). (The list of occupations that is available to employer sponsored applicants is broader than the SOL). Such applicants will be required to have an employer willing to sponsor you.

2) To apply for skilled migration under the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS). This scheme allows employers in regional or low population growth areas of Australia to sponsor employees who are foreign nationals for a permanent visa to work in regional Australia.

3) To apply for state/territory nomination. It is intended that individual state/territory migration plans will be agreed to by the Minister for implementation later in 2010. These plans may include occupations outside those specified on a new SOL. Implementation of state/territory migration plans will be subject to the approval of the Governor-General in Council of proposed amendments to the Migration Regulations 1994.

For more information on what the new SOL list changes mean for your eligibility for Australian emigration and for the new opportunities that now arise, please contact the Migration Bureau.

Business Visa Criteria Raised

On 19 April 2010, the following changes to minimum eligibility requirements for the Business Skills Migration Program came into effect. By these measures, the Australian Government aims to increase the potential contribution of business migrants to the economy, create more jobs for Australians and improve visa integrity.

Increased net assets
The minimum net business & personal assets required for the following sponsored provisional Business Skills visas have been increased from AUD250,000 to AUD500,000 in response to increases in the cost of living and business establishment costs: 

  •  State/Territory Sponsored Business Owner (Provisional) (Subclass 163) visa
  •  State/Territory Sponsored Senior Executive (Provisional) (Subclass 164) visa

The minimum net business & personal assets required for the following provisional Business Skills visas have been increased from AUD500,000 to AUD800,000 in response to increases in the cost of living and business establishment costs:

  •  Business Owner (Provisional) (Subclass 160) visa
  • Senior Executive (Provisional) (Subclass 161) visa

Increased business ownership
Business migrants will now be required to own a substantial or controlling interest in a business to meet visa requirements. The minimum business ownership percentage required has been increased from 10 per cent to:
 51 per cent where the business turnover is less than AUD400,000
 30 per cent where the business turnover is AUD400,000 or more or
 10 per cent where the business is a publicly-listed company.

This amendment applies to all business owner visas (subclasses 132, 160, 163, 890, 892, 845, 846) and applies to the definition of ‘main business’ at Migration Regulation 1.11.  A transitional provision will be available for onshore visa applicants who have purchased a business in Australia prior to the change and are applying for a permanent onshore business owner visa (subclasses 890, 892, 845, 846).

Senior manager option removed from the Subclass 163 visa
Applicants who are employed as senior managers of a business can no longer apply for a State/Territory Sponsored Business Owner (Provisional) (Subclass 163) visa. This visa option has been removed in response to a high incidence of fraud and integrity issues identified with this cohort. Only business owners are now eligible for this visa.  Other visa options may be available to skilled senior managers of overseas businesses. Senior executives of a major business may be eligible for a provisional senior executive visa (subclasses 161 and 164). Skilled managers who gain sponsorship from an Australian employer may be eligible for an employer sponsored visa depending on factors such as age, qualifications, experience and English language skill.

Source: DIAC, April 2010

To check your eligibility for Business Migration to Australia, please take a FREE "Quick Check" - 5 minutes, no obligation test.
For more information on Business Skills visas please contact your nearest
Migration Bureau office or agent.

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Migration Bureau staff receive briefing from Australia's Department of Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC)

Migration Bureau's staff recently received a detailed briefing at the Australian High Commission in London to update them on current immigration policy and forthcoming developments. The briefing was designed exclusively for migration agencies with MARA Registered Migration Agents to help them better assist their visa applicant clients. The Migration Bureau is one of Australia's largest visa and immigration agencies and has a large team of MARA agents to help applicants through the increasingly complex Australian immigration system.

Enlightening presentations were provided by the Regional Director of DIAC (Australia's Department of Immigration and Citizenship). Migration Bureau staff also met with other DIAC staff, including the Principal Migration Officer. After the briefing, Grant King, Director of the Migration Bureau said "This was an excellent opportunity for our staff to receive up-to-the-minute details of the Australian immigration policy. It ensures that our agents are well-equipped to assist our clients and to react quickly to changes in Australian immigration policy - this is one of the keys to success for visa applicants these days. With the increasing complexity of Australia's immigration procedures and large cuts in the annual intake, more applicants now than ever before are using companies with MARA agents, such as the Migration Bureau". 

The Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship indicated that such briefings are likely to be held more regularly in order to foster the positive working relationship between DIAC and MARA Registered Migration Agents.

If you want to lodge an application for permanent residence in Australia, you are recommended to consult a MARA Registered Migration Agent who is licensed by the Australian Government Office of Migration Agents Registration Authority www.mara.gov.au .

For more information on the Migration Bureau and to receive a free initial eligibility assessment, please visit www.migrationbureau.com 

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Working Holiday Visa Programme Re-launched

With the Australian economy fast leaving the recession behind, the Migration Bureau – one of Australia’s leading immigration consultancy companies - has re-launched its “Go Australia” programme to help 18-30 year olds take up the fabulous opportunities to be found there.

Grant King, Director of the Migration Bureau, announced the details of the Programme, which will provide everything from an arrival meet & greet, to airport transfers, opened bank accounts, accommodation, visa consultancy and job search assistance.
“This is an amazing opportunity for 18-30s to experience the sunshine, the scenery and the rich culture – the whole Australian way of life - either as a gap year, or as a precursor to moving permanently to the “Lucky Country”. Grant King added, “There may even be the possibility to extend your stay for another year, which is something the Migration Bureau can advise about”.

As an incentive, the Migration Bureau is offering an initial discount of ?100 for the next 14 days, off the normal price of the programme.

For full details of the “Go Australia” Working Holiday Visa Programme, please visit http://www.migrationbureau.com/goaustralia.php

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Changes to the General Skilled Migration Program - Removal of the MODL

On 8 February 2010, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, announced the outcomes of a review of the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL).

The review found that the existing MODL needed to be revoked and replaced by a more targeted skilled occupations list to better meet the demands of Australia’s labour market. The revocation of the current MODL will not affect those who at the date of announcement:

  • hold a Skilled—Graduate (subclass 485) visa, or have a pending subclass 485 visa application and are yet to apply for a permanent or provisional General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa, or
  • have a pending GSM visa application.

New Skilled Occupation List from mid-2010

On 8 February 2010, the minister also announced the replacement of the current Skilled Occupation List (SOL) in the second half of 2010, with a new list of targeted occupations determined by the independent body, ‘Skills Australia’. As the new SOL will be a comprehensive, targeted list, the current Critical Skills List will be revoked.

The new SOL will come into effect from mid-2010 and will apply to all applicants lodging visa applications made on or after this date, except to GSM applicants who at the date of announcement ( 8 February 2010):

  • hold a Skilled—Graduate (subclass 485) visa, or had a pending subclass 485 visa application and had not yet lodged an application for a provisional or permanent GSM visa and who make an application by 31 December 2012, or
  • have a pending GSM visa application.

In addition, the new SOL will not apply to people applying for a Skilled—Graduate (subclass 485) visa who at 8 February 2010 hold a:

  • Vocational Education and Training Sector (subclass 572) visa
  • Higher Education Sector (subclass 573) visa 
  • Postgraduate Research Sector (subclass 574) visa.

However these student visa holders will be required to have an occupation on the new SOL to apply for a permanent GSM visa.

GSM applications lodged before 1 September 2007

Under section 39 of the Migration Act 1958, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship has the power to set a maximum number of visas of a class that may be granted in a particular financial year.

On 8 February 2010, the minister announced he would set a maximum number of offshore GSM visa applications made before 1 September 2007 that could be granted. Once this number is reached, any applications awaiting a decision will not be considered and the application returned to the applicant or their authorised recipient. These applications will be taken not to have been made.

Refunds of the visa application charge (VAC) will be made to the payer of these charges for affected visa applicants.

Who do the changes to GSM apply to?

Groups affected by the GSM changes Revocation of the MODL from 8th Feb 2010 New SOL in effect from mid-2010
Current applicants No No
Skilled—Graduate (subclass 485) visa applicants and holders as at 8 February 2010 yet to apply for a permanent or provisional GSM visa No, provided they apply for a permanent or provisional GSM visa by 31 December 2012 No, provided they apply for a permanent or provisional GSM visa by 31 December 2012
Higher Education, Postgraduate Education and VET sector student visa holders as at 8 February 2010 Yes Yes, unless they apply for a Skilled—Graduate (subclass 485) visa prior to 31 December 2012.
People who are considering applying for a GSM visa Yes Yes

Source: DIAC Feb 2010

Given these new changes in Australian immigration policies, it is even more important for potential applicants to contact their registered migration agent - who can provide guidance and reassurance on the best way to meet the changes. They will be able to advise on how to adapt your application to suit the new requirements or suggest alternative "routes" to achieve your residency visa.

Act now - before further changes occur. Click here to contact your Migration Bureau agent today!

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New levels in the 2009/10 Migration Program

30/05/09

The Australian Government recently cut the permanent skilled migrant intake to 108,100 places for the 2009/10 Migration Program, in response to the continued economic slowdown. This follows an earlier cut in March 2009 of 14%. The total reduction is almost 20% on previous planning levels.

Senator Chris Evans, , said, “The migration intake in the coming year reflects the economic climate while ensuring employers can gain access to skilled professionals in industries still experiencing skills shortages. The reduction is being achieved through a cutback in places for the general skilled category rather than in the high-demand employer-sponsored category or in areas in which Australia has critical skills shortages.”

At the same time, the Australian Government will provide more opportunities for family reunions with an increase of 3,800 places in the family component of the Migration Program, to 60,300. The increase includes an additional 2,500 places for partners, 1000 places for contributory parents and 300 for child visas.

“We are recognising the importance of family through this boost which will benefit Australians who seek to have their parents, partners or children join them to live here permanently,’ the minister said.
Overall, the Migration Program will total 168,700 for 2009–10, which comprises the 60,300 family places, 108,100 skilled places and a further 300 places for special eligibility.

Are you eligible to emigrate?  Find out now.  Click here for a FREE initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants). 

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New Priority Processing times set for Australian Immigration

29/09/09

The Australian Department for Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC) has announced policy changes that will have implications for those currently applying to immigrate and for those intending to do so.

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, has set new priority processing arrangements for certain Skilled Migration visas. These arrangements are designed to better address the needs of the Australian economy by giving priority to people seeking to migrate to Australia who have skills or qualifications in one of the occupations on the current Critical Skills List (CSL).

The new arrangements apply to applications in the pipeline that have not been finalised, and to applications lodged with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, on or after 23 September 2009.

For information on -

- the new priority processing times
- which visa classes and occupations are affected
- which visa classes and occupations are exempted

please contact your local Migration Bureau or Visa Centre agent

Essentially, the changes mean that it is now even more important for all applicants to be fully informed of the best way and the best time to apply, in order to achieve visa success.

“We recommend that all eligible candidates for immigration to Australia apply now, without delay”, said Grant King of the Migration Bureau/Visa Centre. “Although the DIAC changes may entail longer processing times under certain skilled visa categories, it is essential that all prospective settlers to Australia lodge their applications now in order to secure their position and protect themselves from further changes.”

WHY YOU NEED TO ACT NOW - Using a registered Migration Agent will ensure that applicants are kept well informed of all such developments and of the different options open to them. “In many cases,” Grant King advised, “intending migrants can adjust or improve the quality of their applications in order to suit the requirements of other visa classes. For instance, we are currently re-assessing all of our clients to determine whether they could apply under a different visa class which would be more advantageous for them. If applicants can obtain a qualifying job offer, they can in fact speed up their visa processing by applying under an employer-sponsored category or a temporary work visa class (eg. 457).”

New applicants are definitely recommended to seek the professional advice of a registered Migration Agent in order to ensure that their application to immigrate to Australia is drafted in the best way possible and targeted to the visa category most likely to ensure them success.

For Business migrants the need to act now is imperative. The Australian Government has advised that changes to business visa regulations are likely to follow in the near future, so prospective candidates should apply without delay to safeguard their opportunities to immigrate.

Are you eligible to emigrate?  Find out now.  Click here for a FREE initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants). 

Source: Media Release from Chris Evans, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Australia

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Implications of new federal policy for immigrants to Victoria

30/09/09

Victoria State Government has confirmed that it will continue to process State Sponsored visa applications as per its own “Skills in Demand” list, despite changes in the Australian federal visa processing arrangements.

Victoria confirmed that non-State Sponsored applicants would be subject to longer processing times, if their nominated occupation is not on the federal Critical Skills List (CSL). This would affect applicants who had applied to Victoria for a Skilled-Sponsored (subclass 176) sponsorship before 23 September 2009, or who intend to apply before the end of 2009. In such cases, it is unlikely that their visa will be finalised before the end of 2012.

For State-Sponsored applications on the other hand – whose occupation is on the Victoria “Skills in Demand” list - their applications will be given priority once the higher priority groups are finalised in accordance with the Ministerial Direction. Without an occupation on the CSL, or sponsorship by an employer, State Government or family member resident in Australia, a client’s application will not be processed until after 2012.

Business migration visa applications for Victoria are not yet affected by these changes.

Are you eligible to emigrate?  Find out now.  Click here for a FREE initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants). 

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Assessment changes for Skilled Migrants

01/06/09

New assessment criteria have been introduced by the Australian Government, meaning that trades people applying (under the General Skilled Migrant category) to live and work in Australia permanently will require increased English language skills (new IELTS level).

This change will bring trade related occupations in line with the English language level required for all other occupations on the Skilled Occupation List. Research has shown that migrants who are proficient in English have better employment outcomes once they arrive.

The minimum salary levels for Temporary Skilled Overseas Workers (subclass 457 visas) will increase by 4.1 per cent from July 1, consistent with the change in average employees’ total earnings since the level was last reviewed in August 2008.  Where necessary for safety or to prevent fraud, Australia will undertake more extensive skills assessments to confirm skills claimed by applicants. Australia is improving its skills assessment processes to provide for formal skills testing of some trade occupations.  

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Australia maintains its competitive edge

15/06/09

Australia retained its 7th place ranking in the IMD World Competitive Yearbook listing of 57 international economies. As such, the country underlined the strength of its economy and its ability to weather economic downturn with good levels of efficiency and infrastructure. It also gained this high rating on the basis of other factors such as the environment, quality of life, technology and education.
Source: IMD World Competitive Yearbook.

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Australian cities amongst the best in the world

3rd June 2009

The Economist Intelligence Unit has placed Melbourne as the 3rd best city to live in, with Perth in 5th place and Sydney 9th. This is a remarkable showing for any one country, thus underlining the excellent quality of life to be found in Australia’s urban areas. The survey highlighted relatively low population densities, an abundance of cultural and recreational facilities, lower crime levels, lower rate of poverty and good public infrastructure.
Source: Economist Intelligence Unit.

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Banks pass the test

5th March 2009

Australia's four biggest banks - which between them control more than 90 per cent of New Zealand's banking - are among the world's 20 safest, a survey has found.

National Australia Bank, owner of the BNZ, beat heavyweights such as HSBC, Wells Fargo and Deutsche Bank to reach number 11 on the US-based Global Finance magazine list.

The twice-yearly assessment - which examines the 500 largest banks in the world - is based on a comparison of the long-term credit ratings from agencies Standard & Poor's, Moody's and Fitch as well as banks' total assets.

NAB is followed by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia - owner of the ASB Bank - at number 12. ANZ Banking Group is ranked 15th, followed by Westpac in 16th place.

The credit ratings of the New Zealand subsidiaries of the big four Australian banks are similar to those of their parents, which are largely uniform.

But only the Commonwealth Bank's New Zealand subsidiary - ASB Bank - is on Global Finance's top 50 list, in 18th place. 18.

The world's safest bank, says Global Finance, is Germany's KfW.

The safest bank with a significant New Zealand presence is the Netherlands' Rabobank.

Joseph Giarraputo said ”more than ever, customers are viewing long-term creditworthiness as the key feature of the banks with which they do business."

New Zealand's banks - and their Australian owners - have been spared the worst effects of the global financial meltdown mainly because of their staid business philosophies.

And they have generally been considerably more conservative in their lending than their American and European counterparts.

Are you eligible to emigrate? Find out now. Click here for a FREE initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants).

Source: http://www.nzherald.co.nz

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NEWSFLASH: More trades occupations can now apply under RPL

RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) skills assessments are now becoming a very important part of the Australian immigration programme. ACTS (Australian Construction Training Services) is one of the three major Australian Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) agencies in the UK and they have recently announced that they have added four new trades to their RPL programme. Essentially, this means that applicants WITHOUT a formal qualification but 4 years or more proven work experience in one of the four following occupations can now complete an RPL and a skills assessment to achieve an AQF level 3 qualification certification. This certification then in turn enables the applicant to be ultimately granted the qualification necessary points necessary to consider an application for skilled migration to Australia (formally these applicants were ineligible).These four new trades are as follows;

  • Diesel fitting
  • Fitting and/or turning
  • Boilermaking
  • Sheetmetal

In addition to these four new trades ACTS can also provide RPL skills assessments for the following trades;

  • Carpentry
  • Bricklaying
  • Painting
  • Tiling
  • Fitting
  • Shop Fitting
  • Joinery
  • Solid Plaster
  • Roof Plumbing
  • Concreting
  • Wall and Ceiling (Fibrous Plaster)
  • Chef
  • Cook

Are you eligible to emigrate?  Find out now.  Click here for a FREE initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants). The Migration Bureau can co-ordinate both your visa application and skills assessment process.

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TRA to delay implementation of proposed revised assessment standards - solution for some UK and Ireland based tradespersons.

Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) has announced its decision to delay the implementation of its proposed revised assessment standards and procedures- the Migration Assessment Policy (MAP) - indefinitely. This means that all applications will continue to be assessed against the current Uniform Assessment Criteria (UAC).

A new independent company, Australian Trade Assessments (ATA) has been set up in the UK offering a programme whereby unqualified or partly qualified tradespersons from the UK and Ireland in the following occupations and with significant work experience can obtain an AQFIII Certificate.

Through an association with the Master Builders of Australia (MBA) and the Queensland Hairdressing Academy (QHA) AQF III certificates can be obtained for the following occupations:

Solid Plastering
Wall & Ceiling Lining (Fibrous Plastering)
Wall & Floor Tiling
Roof Tiling
Roof Plumbing
Painting & Decorating
Floor Finishing
Carpentry*
Bricklaying / Blocklaying*
Hairdressers

* Please note that initially, these tests will run in Ireland only for the purposes of obtaining a TRA Pathway E assessment as Vetassess cover the UK for these two occupations.

It should also be noted that the Master Builders will also be able to assess against the new supervisor Licensing Requirements for these trade qualifications where relevant.

With an AQFIII Certificate applicants can then apply for a skills assessment to the Trades Recognition Australia with Skill Pathway E. An AQFIII certificate does not necessarily mean that applicants will be successful in their skills assessment which is necessary for migrating to Australia under any of the General Skilled Migration visas. Applicants will need to meet the full requirements of the TRA.

An AQFIII Certificate enhances new migrants’ chances of finding employment in Australia.

The reason for this is that obtaining an AQF III enables new migrants to secure employment immediately on entry. Employers will not generally hire migrants until they have appropriate Health & Safety standards met of which is achieved through obtaining an AQF III.

In addition to ATA, ACTS (Australian Construction Training Services) is one of the other two major Australian Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) agencies in the UK and they have recently announced that they have added four new trades to their RPL programme. These four new trades are as follows;

  • Diesel fitting
  • Fitting and/or turning
  • Boilermaking
  • Sheetmetal

ACTS can also provide RPL skills assessments for the construction occupations listed above.

Contact the Migration Bureau for further information and details. Click here for contact information.

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New laws to protect overseas workers pass Parliament

Thursday 4 December 2008

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, on December 4th, welcomed the passage through Parliament with bipartisan support of new laws to better protect temporary overseas workers in Australia.

The Migration Legislation Amendment (Worker Protection) Bill 2008 was introduced after extensive consultation with industry and unions to strengthen the integrity of temporary working visa arrangements including the subclass 457 visa program.

The subclass 457 visa program is an uncapped scheme driven by labour market demand which enables employers to sponsor overseas workers to fill nominated skilled positions in Australia for up to four years.

Almost 60 000 primary visas were granted to overseas workers in 2007-08 and while the vast majority of employers did the right thing, there have been concerns about the incidence of employer breaches in the program.

A total of 192 sponsors were formally sanctioned and a further 1353 employers were formally warned in 2007-08. This compares with 95 sanctions and 313 formal warnings issued in 2006-07.

The new laws will enable specially trained officers with investigative powers to monitor workplaces and conduct site visits to determine whether employers are complying with the redefined sponsorship obligations. The powers will be similar to the powers of workplace inspectors under the Workplace Relations Act 1996.

Employers found in breach of the obligations in the Migration Regulations could be fined up to $33 000 and the department will retain the ability to cancel an employer’s approval as a sponsor or bar them from making further applications for overseas workers.

The new laws will also enable the Commissioner of Taxation to disclose tax information to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship in order to ensure correct salary levels are being paid to visa holders.

The Government is consulting the Skilled Migration Consultative Panel, which comprises business and industry groups, state governments and unions, over the development of regulations setting out the obligations of employers of temporary overseas workers.

The recommendations of the recently released Deegan report into the integrity of the subclass 457 visa program will inform development of the employers’ sponsorship obligations.

Source: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/

Are you eligible to emigrate?  Find out now.  Click here for a FREE initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants).  For information on the Migration Bureau Click here.

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Residency Applications: High Failure Rate reported. Up to 50% FAIL.....

Industry feedback has indicated that an estimated 30% of applicants under some visa classes who lodge their application online and directly with the immigration authorities get it WRONG AND FAIL because they did not use a registered migration agent to compile and double check their application and immigration eligibility first.
 
It is estimated that a further 20% of applicants who do not use an agent become confused and frustrated with the application process and find it difficult or impossible to get answers to their specific concerns or questions from the immigration authorities. As a result, they unnecessarily drop out of the application process.
 
Overall, this equates to an estimated up to 50% FAILURE RATE for "do-it-yourself" applicants applying directly to the immigration authorities under some visa classes.
 
This compares with a SUCCESS RATE OF 98.5% for applicants that apply through officially-recognised migration agencies such as the Migration Bureau.
 
Grant King of the Migration Bureau, one of the largest international immigration agencies, commented that "We believe this failure and drop out rate is unacceptably high. Every day we receive many concerning phone calls from applicants who have tried to apply online or directly with the immigration authorities and have got it wrong. Many fail outright. They are generally very stressed and are frustrated by the delays and problems that this causes, not to mention left out of pocket.  We are able to assist at this late stage, but it is more difficult and time-consuming to correct an incomplete or incorrect application. Additionally, it is difficult to go back to re-lodge or change an application after an original submission has already been made to the authorities. It is also more expensive".
 
"We want to protect applicants from these risks and ensure that applicants secure the right of residence that they are entitled to in the quickest possible time. To do so, the key is for new settlers to use an officially -recognised agent BEFORE applying and to instruct the agent to compile, double-check and lodge your online or physical residence visa application on your behalf - this will avoid unnecessary delays and risk, and means that you will receive your visas as soon as possible, and not be one of the thousands of applicants who are unnecessarily refused every year. So the moral of the story is to get it right the first time" said Mr King.
 
For a FREE assessment of your eligibility to lodge a residence visa application, please Click here.

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More Migrants now Using Agents

It now seems more migrants to Australia are using agents compared to migrants of other destinations according to the latest Emigrate Australia reader survey. 59.4% of readers now say they are using an immigration consultant for their applications.

The Emigrate Australia reader survey looked at various issues of the immigration process including demographics, family factors, motivations and the immigration process. Other significant trends for Australia include Western Australia taking out a clear victory as the preferred destination for UK migrants (followed by South Australia) and financial motivations rising in comparison to lifestyle and climate factors.   

Most respondents indicated that the WAITING was the most difficult part of the process.  Therefore, there is a strong case for using an immigration consultant, who can help the applicant AVOID DELAYS and assist with QUICKER PROCESSING by presenting a 100% correct and complete application.

Secondly, the application process and preparing paperwork was also perceived to be a difficult part of the process. Again, there is a strong case for IMMIGRATION CONSULTANTS who can make the application process smoother and clearer and provide personalised assistance and representation in this bureaucratic process.

The vast majority of readers indicated the more appealing lifestyle and safer place to bring up children, with climate being a major factor for emigration to Australia.

If you would like to know if you meet these pass marks, we will work it out for you for FREE. Click here to complete a free initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants). 

Source: Emigrate Australia January 07, Outbound Publishing

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Migration Bureau attends training at Australian High Commission

The Director of the Migration Bureau, Grant King and his London office team have had a busy year attending numerous events at the Australia High Commission to receive immigration policy training and information on State Government regional sponsorship opportunities for clients. Grant and his team received training from the South Australian, Western Australian, Victorian, and Queensland Governments, as well as meeting staff from the Australian Department of Immigration (DIAC).

Separately, Grant also attended formal luncheons with Hon Kevin Rudd, Australian Prime Minister and Hon Wayne Swan, Treasurer of Australia.

Following the meetings, Grant commented that “attending regular events at the Australian High Commission and meeting key Australian decision-makers ensures that our staff remain fully abreast of changes in immigration policy and that we have up-to-date information on Australia to pass onto our valued clientele – it further entrenches our position as the undisputed market leader”.

For more information visit www.migrationbureau.com

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Australia Pass Mark Watch – current points-tested visa pass mark update

The current points tested Skilled Independent Class visas are the most popular type of visa for migrants. For you to migrate under this class you will have to satisfy certain conditions and meet the pass and pool marks.

If you would like to find out the pass and pool marks for various visa classes please click here.

If you would like to know if you meet these pass marks, we will work it out for you for FREE. Click here to complete a free initial eligibility assessment provided by the Migration Bureau (officially recognised immigration and visa consultants). 

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