The Living in Australia web pages contain information and publications about life in Australia, and links to government settlement services including help learning English. These web pages also provide information about Australian values and the cultural diversity of Australia’s people.
Settling In - NSW Newsletter
Settling In is a newsletter initiated by the Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Branch of the NSW office, designed to disseminate settlement information and updates to external stakeholders, as well as showcase good practice and innovations which promote social inclusion and participation. Settling In is published several times a year. Editions of the newsletter are available to download as PDF files below.
* April 2009 Issue (600KB PDF file)
* July 2009 Issue (676KB PDF file)
Beginning a Life in Australia
The Beginning a Life in Australia booklets welcome newly-arrived migrants and humanitarian entrants to Australia. They provide useful national, state/territory and local settlement information for migrants, humanitarian entrants, their sponsors and service providers. This information is available to download in English and 37 community languages for each state and territory.
See: Beginning a Life in Australia – English version
Booklets in other languages
Translated versions of Beginning a Life in Australia for each state and territory are available to download from the table below.
Image of Albanian text Image of Amharic text Image of Arabic text
Image of Bosnian text Image of Burmese text Image of Chinese (Simplified) text
Image of Chinese (Traditional) text Image of Croatian text Image of Dari text
Image of Dinka text Image of French text Image of German text
Image of Greek text Image of Hindi text Image of Indonesian text
Image of Italian text Image of Japanese text Image of Karen text
Image of Khmer text Image of Kirundi text Image of Korean text
Image of Macedonian text Image of Nepali text Image of Persian text
Image of Portuguese text Image of Russian text Image of Serbian text
Image of Sinhalese text Image of Somali text Image of Spanish text
Image of Swahili text Image of Tagalog text Image of Tamil text
Image of Thai text Image of Tigrinya text Image of Turkish text
Image of Vietnamese text
Feedback on the Beginning a Life in Australia booklets
You can submit comments and suggestions about the Beginning a Life in Australia booklets by filling out our online form.
A National Action Plan (NAP)
On this page
* A National Action Plan to Build on Social Cohesion, Harmony and Security
* Community projects
* 2009 community grants round now open
* Research
A National Action Plan to Build on Social Cohesion, Harmony and Security
The National Action Plan (NAP) was developed by the Ministerial Council on Immigration and Multicultural Affairs, at the request of the Council of Australian Governments.
See: COAG: Special Meeting on Counter-Terrorism (55KB PDF file)
The NAP, developed in 2005-06, responds to the particular pressures Australian communities are facing as a result of increased intolerance and the promotion of violence arising from events around the world and in Australia since 2001. It addresses marginalisation, promotes understanding and dialogue among all Australians and builds on existing government programs, focusing on four key areas: education, employment, integration and security.
The Australian Government and state and territory governments worked together to develop the NAP, which was endorsed by the Ministerial Council on Immigration and Multicultural Affairs on 14 July 2006.
See: Communique: Ministerial Council on Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (14 July 2006) (14KB PDF file)
These governments are now implementing the NAP with significant commitment from Australian communities. Australian Government activities under the NAP include:
* Consultation and research to inform the direction of activity
* Projects run by various Australian Government agencies, including the Department of Immigration and Citizenship
* Partnership projects between state and territory governments and the Australian Government
* Community Projects.
See:
A National Action Plan to Build on Social Cohesion, Harmony and Security (HTML)
A National Action Plan to Build on Social Cohesion, Harmony and Security (221KB PDF file)
The implementation of the NAP has been informed by a range of community consultation processes, including the Muslim Community Reference Group (MCRG), which met from September 2005 to September 2006. Also, Muslim Youth Summits were held in all States and Territories of Australia between December 2005 and June 2007. The final reports from these processes are available in the documents below.
See:
Final report of the Muslim Community Reference Group (443KB PDF file)
Muslim Youth Summits 2007 Report (630KB PDF file)
Community projects
The NAP funds community organisations to address NAP priorities. Current projects focus on increasing opportunities for participation in social and cultural projects to enhance leadership and connectedness among young people.
See: A National Action Plan to Build on Social Cohesion, Harmony and Security – Information Kit (898KB PDF file)
For summaries of past NAP community projects
See:
Community Projects 2008-2009 (33KB PDF file)
Community Projects 2007-2008 (82KB PDF file)
Community Projects 2006-2007 (83KB PDF file)
Community Projects 2005-2006 (140KB PDF file)
2009 community grants round open
Note: The 2009 community grants round referred to in this section has closed.
National Action Plan funding is available through the Diverse Australia Program community grants round.
As a result of community feedback about streamlining the grant application process, grants are now offered to small scale as well as major NAP activities.
In 2009 funding may be allocated to NAP projects that encourage active participation in mainstream sporting, social, art-based and other activities; promote the positive contributions of Muslim Australians to Australia; provide mentoring and volunteering opportunities for young people; and encourage leadership and participation more widely in community activities, especially by women and young people.
Guidelines for the Community Grants 2009 are available on the Diverse Australia Program website.
See: Diverse Australia Program
Research
Muslim Australians and Local Government: Grass-roots Strategies to Build Bridges between Muslim and Non-Muslim Australians - Dr Amanda Wise
This project aimed to identify what works for community-based activities, including the potential role of local councils, and the relationship of Muslim Australians to their local councils.
See: Muslim Australians and Local Government: Grass-roots Strategies to Build Bridges between Muslim and Non-Muslim Australians
The Civil and Social Participation of Muslim Women in Australian Community Life - Dr Helen McCue
This research project, funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), sought to identify the drivers and barriers to Muslim Australian women’s participation in Australian civil and social life.
See: The Civil and Social Participation of Muslim Women in Australian Community Life (1.2MB PDF file)
Understanding Muslim Identities: From Perceived Relative Exclusion to Inclusion – Associate Professor Samina Yasmeen
This research project interviewed males and females, Muslims and non- Muslims to assess their views on Muslims in Australia.
See: Understanding Muslim Identities: From Perceived Relative Exclusion to Inclusion (2.1MB PDF file)
Settlement Reporting Facility
The Settlement Reporting Facility utilises the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s Settlement Database to provide the general public with statistical data on permanent arrivals to Australia.
The Settlement Database brings together data from various internal and external sources to assist government and community agencies involved in the planning and provision of services to migrants.
As much of the information is provided by settlers on a voluntary basis (such as religion), when a report is produced, there may be some items that will be listed as 'Unknown' or 'Not Stated'.
Instructions on how to produce a settlement report are also available.
See:
Settlement Reports
How to produce a settlement report
If you have any problems or require more information please contact the administrator.
Email: settle.data-admin@immi.gov.au
Living in Australia
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Settlement Services Locator
This tool will help you quickly find the location of services available to help you become established and independent in Australia. You can search for where to access English language classes and find community organisations.
How to use the Locator
1. Choose 'AMEP' (English language classes) or 'SGP' (community organisations providing settlement assistance).
2. Click your state/territory on the map or enter your postcode or residential address.
3. Click on any location pin on the map or access detailed, printable information by choosing from the list of organisations below the map.
Information on public transport
Once you have located a settlement service, you can access information on how to get there by public transport in your state/territory.
See: Public transport
Feedback
If you have questions or suggestions about the Settlement Services Locator, please submit a site feedback form.
See: Feedback about our site
Monday, October 12, 2009
Employer Sponsored Workers
Frequently Asked Questions – Attestation
On 1 April 2009, the Minster for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans announced a requirement for sponsors to attest in writing that they have a strong record of, or a demonstrated commitment to:
* employing local labour
and
* non-discriminatory employment practices.
Who has to make an attestation?
This requirement applies to all new and existing un-finalised sponsorship applications for a Subclass 457 - Business (Long Stay) visa from 27 June 2009.
What happens to my sponsorship application if it was not finalised by 27 June 2009?
You will be required to make an attestation before your application can be processed. Your case officer will notify you in writing on how and when you can make the attestation.
I have applied to be a Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) sponsor. How do I make my attestation?
Application lodged prior to 27 June 2009:
Your case officer will notify you in writing on how and when you can make the attestation.
Applications lodged on or after 27 June 2009:
eVisa lodgement
You will be required to look up an online statement as part of the eVisa application process and select if you make the attestation or not.
Paper application
From 27 June until mid September a separate attestation attachment will be available for submission with your application.
See: Attestation letter (20KB PDF file)
From 14 September onwards the paper application form 1196S will include an attestation section.
If you submit an application without the attestation attached, processing on the application will cease until the document is provided.
Is there a fee payable to make an attestation?
No additional fees will apply.
If I have a Labour Agreement am I required to make an attestation?
No. Given that the attestation will be a sponsorship approval criterion, employers who are party to a labour agreement will not be required to make an attestation. This is because Labour Agreement sponsors do not have to satisfy the sponsorship approval criteria in the Regulations.
I want to be a Standard Business Sponsor but if I do not want to make the attestation what are my options?
If you decide not to make an attestation then you will need to advise your case officer. You will be unable to meet the criteria for sponsorship under the Subclass 457 - Business (Long Stay) visa and you will be unable to sponsor applicants for the visa.
If I am applying for a Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) visa do I need to provide an attestation?
No. Only sponsors of Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) visa applicants need to provide attestations, not visa applicants themselves.
On 1 April 2009, the Minster for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans announced a requirement for sponsors to attest in writing that they have a strong record of, or a demonstrated commitment to:
* employing local labour
and
* non-discriminatory employment practices.
Who has to make an attestation?
This requirement applies to all new and existing un-finalised sponsorship applications for a Subclass 457 - Business (Long Stay) visa from 27 June 2009.
What happens to my sponsorship application if it was not finalised by 27 June 2009?
You will be required to make an attestation before your application can be processed. Your case officer will notify you in writing on how and when you can make the attestation.
I have applied to be a Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) sponsor. How do I make my attestation?
Application lodged prior to 27 June 2009:
Your case officer will notify you in writing on how and when you can make the attestation.
Applications lodged on or after 27 June 2009:
eVisa lodgement
You will be required to look up an online statement as part of the eVisa application process and select if you make the attestation or not.
Paper application
From 27 June until mid September a separate attestation attachment will be available for submission with your application.
See: Attestation letter (20KB PDF file)
From 14 September onwards the paper application form 1196S will include an attestation section.
If you submit an application without the attestation attached, processing on the application will cease until the document is provided.
Is there a fee payable to make an attestation?
No additional fees will apply.
If I have a Labour Agreement am I required to make an attestation?
No. Given that the attestation will be a sponsorship approval criterion, employers who are party to a labour agreement will not be required to make an attestation. This is because Labour Agreement sponsors do not have to satisfy the sponsorship approval criteria in the Regulations.
I want to be a Standard Business Sponsor but if I do not want to make the attestation what are my options?
If you decide not to make an attestation then you will need to advise your case officer. You will be unable to meet the criteria for sponsorship under the Subclass 457 - Business (Long Stay) visa and you will be unable to sponsor applicants for the visa.
If I am applying for a Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) visa do I need to provide an attestation?
No. Only sponsors of Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) visa applicants need to provide attestations, not visa applicants themselves.
Professionals and other Skilled Migrants
Submissions welcomed in response to the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) Review second Issues Paper
The second issues paper as part of the MODL Review to assess the central skills targeting mechanism for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is now available.
Responses to the second issues paper are due by 18 September 2009.
See: Issues Paper – No.2 ( 87KB PDF file)
Building upon the principles established in the first issues paper, this paper examines how those objectives might best be met in practice.
See: Issues Paper – No.1 (136KB PDF file)
The MODL Review
The MODL was introduced to target the GSM program, to applicants who had skills in occupations and specialisations in short supply in Australia.
The Review, lead jointly by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship will examine and report on the following:
* The role and purpose of the MODL in targeting skill needs in relation to the GSM program, to complement the supply of tertiary qualified Australians.
* A proposal for a new methodology and structure for the MODL to meet its intended purpose, taking account of:
o the long term needs of the Australian labour market
o skill supply through domestic tertiary education.
* The implications for policy and administration of any proposed changes to the MODL arrangements.
* The implementation of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) for migration purposes and the implications and timing of its application to MODL and the Critical Skills List.
The changes to the MODL will not affect the ability of Australian industry to meet its skill needs through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).
Other arrangements currently in place, including the Critical Skills List (and the priority processing arrangements), will continue until the outcomes of the MODL review are finalised.
See: Frequently Asked Questions – Review of the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL)
The second issues paper as part of the MODL Review to assess the central skills targeting mechanism for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is now available.
Responses to the second issues paper are due by 18 September 2009.
See: Issues Paper – No.2 ( 87KB PDF file)
Building upon the principles established in the first issues paper, this paper examines how those objectives might best be met in practice.
See: Issues Paper – No.1 (136KB PDF file)
The MODL Review
The MODL was introduced to target the GSM program, to applicants who had skills in occupations and specialisations in short supply in Australia.
The Review, lead jointly by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship will examine and report on the following:
* The role and purpose of the MODL in targeting skill needs in relation to the GSM program, to complement the supply of tertiary qualified Australians.
* A proposal for a new methodology and structure for the MODL to meet its intended purpose, taking account of:
o the long term needs of the Australian labour market
o skill supply through domestic tertiary education.
* The implications for policy and administration of any proposed changes to the MODL arrangements.
* The implementation of the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) for migration purposes and the implications and timing of its application to MODL and the Critical Skills List.
The changes to the MODL will not affect the ability of Australian industry to meet its skill needs through the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) and Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS).
Other arrangements currently in place, including the Critical Skills List (and the priority processing arrangements), will continue until the outcomes of the MODL review are finalised.
See: Frequently Asked Questions – Review of the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL)
Professionals and other Skilled Migrants
Frequently Asked Questions - Capital Investment Scheme
On this page
* Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme
* Information about lodging a capital investment
* What other visa options do I have?
* I want to apply for a new GSM visa
* Can my current application be used to grant me a different visa?
* How can I apply for nomination from an employer or State or Territory government?
Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme on 31 October 2009
From 31 October 2009, the South Australian Government Financing Authority (SAFA) has announced it will not accept any further applications from General Skilled Migration (GSM) applicants who wish to lodge a capital investment, as it will close the scheme.
Since the announcement of the reopening of the capital investment scheme by SAFA on 29 January 2009, the department has contacted all applicants whose cases had been assessed and who indicated they intended to lodge a capital investment.
Any applicants who have indicated on their application form that they intend to lodge a capital investment, but have not yet done so, are advised to finalise their capital investment before the scheme is closed.
Applicants who did not indicate on their application form that they intended to lodge a capital investment, but now wish to do so because they will be relying on the five bonus points to meet the Point Test, should also contact the department and finalise their capital investment before the scheme is closed.
This is the final opportunity for all pre 1 September 2007 GSM applicants to lodge a capital investment. As there will be no further capacity for applicants to make a capital investment to gain the bonus five (5) points, the department will not provide applicants any additional time to make a capital investment once the scheme offered by SAFA closes. Please note that this also applies to those applicants who have appealed to the Migration Review Tribunal (MRT) and those applicants seeking judicial review.
Applicants who still intend to make a capital investment are strongly urged to do so before 31 October 2009.
Please note that only SAFA provides an approved designated security that enables an applicant for a pre-1 September 2007 GSM visa to be awarded bonus points for making a capital investment.
Information about lodging a capital investment
Applicants who were affected by the closure of the capital investment scheme may now lodge a deposit with the South Australian Government Financing Authority. This is the only scheme currently available which the department is satisfied meets the requirements in the Regulations.
In consultation with the South Australian Government Financing Authority, the department has facilitated their administration of the reopening of the capital investment scheme by issuing Form 1134 Declaration General Skilled Migration (Bonus points for capital investment in Australia).
To assist processing, applicants may only make a deposit accompanied by Form 1134 Declaration General Skilled Migration (Bonus points for capital investment in Australia) and the letter sent to you from a case officer.
If you lodged your GSM application before 1 September 2007 but have not had your case assessed (you have received no contact from a case officer) and you either indicated an intention to lodge a capital investment on your application form, or now want to rely on a capital investment to achieve the bonus five (5) points, you are now encouraged to contact the ASPC using the post-lodgement enquiry form to request a Form 1134 and letter from the department enabling a capital investment to be lodged. Please note that this form is generally only issued once a case has been assessed as meeting all other requirements. The department is prepared to provide you with this opportunity to lodge a capital investment given SAFA's closure, however, this should not be taken as an indication of a likely outcome on your application. In due course, your application will be assessed in its entirety.
See: Post-lodgement enquiry form
Note: The South Australian Government Financing Authority will not accept investments for migration purposes unless accompanied by Form 1134 and the letter sent to you from the department.
See: SAFA Migration Bonds
Those applicants who are no longer able to lodge the capital investment may still pursue other options relevant to their circumstances.
What other visa options do I have?
Applicants should check if their nominated occupation has been added to the Migration Occupation in Demand List (MODL). If your occupation is now listed on the MODL, you will be awarded at least an additional 15 points. In this instance the department will resume processing of your application subject to the priority processing directions.
See: Is your occupation in demand?
Applicants could seek to claim the maximum for English language points available under Schedule 6A, 'competent English'. To achieve 'competent' English, an applicant must score at least six (6) on each of the four (4) components of the International English Language Test Scheme (IELTS) test. Applicants who can demonstrate this level of English language proficiency will achieve 20 points on the GSM points test.
Note: under Schedule 6A of the pre 1 September 2007 visas, native English speakers from the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America and the Republic of Ireland may have already been awarded the maximum points for English language.
Applicants can seek bonus points for demonstrated proficiency in a ‘designated/community language’. Applicants who can demonstrate this proficiency via NAATI accreditation or overseas qualification (equivalent to an Australian bachelor degree) in a designated language, are eligible for the award of five (5) points on the GSM points test if they have not claimed other bonus points.
See: Australian Community Language
Applicants may be able to claim 'partner skills' points if their partner is able to satisfy the relevant age, English language ability, recent work experience or Australian study, and if they have obtained a suitable skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Important: You cannot claim 'partner skills' points if your partner is an Australian permanent resident or an Australian Citizen.
Applicants also have the option to reapply under the new GSM visa stream and be assessed against the post 1 September 2007 requirements. However, please note that there are no provisions to refund any Visa Application Charge (VAC) paid in respect of a withdrawn application and you will need to pay another VAC to lodge a new application.
Detailed information regarding the current offshore and onshore GSM visa subclasses is available on the department's website.
See: Visa Options
Applicants may also wish to consider employer sponsored visa options.
See: Employer Sponsored Visas
Detailed information about the priority processing directions is available on the department's website.
See: What's New? Recent Changes in General Skilled Migration
I want to apply for a new GSM visa
Applicants affected by the Capital Investment Scheme who decide to lodge a new visa application must meet all the eligibility criteria for the new GSM visa at the time of making a new application.
You should include a cover note stating that you have a current undecided GSM application.
If you are onshore, and you hold a Bridging Visa (BVA or BVB), to avoid it ceasing, do not withdraw your current application until your new application has been decided.
Applicants who decide to lodge a new GSM visa application must pay a new VAC.
If you decide to lodge a further application, please contact the Adelaide Skilled Processing Centre and provide the details of your new application.
Can my current application be used to grant me a different visa?
The Regulations allow, in limited circumstances, certain applications for one visa subclass or class to be considered against the criteria for another without having to apply for a new visa.
Applicants who have applied for a Skilled – Independent (subclass 136) visa can also be considered for a State/Territory Nominated Independent (subclass 137) visa if they are able to secure nomination by a State or Territory. Applicants should consult the relevant State or Territory website to determine whether their nominated occupation is on a State's occupation list.
See: Nomination by State/Territory Government
Important: Although the information available from this webpage refers to applicants for a subclass 176 visa, it is also relevant to applicants for a Skilled - Independent (Migrant) Class BN visa.
If you applied for one of the following visas:
* Skilled – Independent (subclass 136) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored (subclass 138) visa
* Skilled – Independent Overseas Student (subclass 880) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored Overseas Student (subclass 881) visa.
you may be eligible to be considered for one of the following:
* Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa if you have an Australian employer who is willing to nominate you
* Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) if you have been offered a position in a designated area
* Labour Agreement (LA) visa if you have a nomination from an employer under a Labour Agreement.
If you are eligible, you do not need to lodge a further application to be considered against the criteria for an ENS, RSMS or LA visa.
See: Skilled workers permanent visa options
How can I apply for nomination from an employer or State or Territory government?
You can check if a State or Territory is willing to sponsor applicants with your occupation and then contact them directly for nomination.
See: Nomination by State/Territory government
In some circumstances, States may be willing to nominate applicants even if their occupation is not on their State lists. You may wish to approach the State you intend to live in to see if they will nominate you.
You may also have your skills and work experience listed on the Skill Matching Database. This provides a database to employers and State and Territory Governments who are willing to nominate applicants who have applied for the following permanent visas:
* Skilled – Independent (subclass 136) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored (subclass 138) visa
* Skilled – Independent Overseas Student (subclass 880) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored Overseas Student (subclass 881) visa.
You will need to provide your personal contact details as well as details of your qualifications and work history. If you have a partner, they may also complete the form and be entered on the database.
If an employer or State and Territory Government is interested in nominating you, they will contact you for further information.
If you applied for one of these visas and now wish to have your employment details listed on the Skill Matching Database, you will need to complete Form 1266.
See:
Form 1266 (152KB PDF file)
Skill Matching Database Overview
On this page
* Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme
* Information about lodging a capital investment
* What other visa options do I have?
* I want to apply for a new GSM visa
* Can my current application be used to grant me a different visa?
* How can I apply for nomination from an employer or State or Territory government?
Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme on 31 October 2009
From 31 October 2009, the South Australian Government Financing Authority (SAFA) has announced it will not accept any further applications from General Skilled Migration (GSM) applicants who wish to lodge a capital investment, as it will close the scheme.
Since the announcement of the reopening of the capital investment scheme by SAFA on 29 January 2009, the department has contacted all applicants whose cases had been assessed and who indicated they intended to lodge a capital investment.
Any applicants who have indicated on their application form that they intend to lodge a capital investment, but have not yet done so, are advised to finalise their capital investment before the scheme is closed.
Applicants who did not indicate on their application form that they intended to lodge a capital investment, but now wish to do so because they will be relying on the five bonus points to meet the Point Test, should also contact the department and finalise their capital investment before the scheme is closed.
This is the final opportunity for all pre 1 September 2007 GSM applicants to lodge a capital investment. As there will be no further capacity for applicants to make a capital investment to gain the bonus five (5) points, the department will not provide applicants any additional time to make a capital investment once the scheme offered by SAFA closes. Please note that this also applies to those applicants who have appealed to the Migration Review Tribunal (MRT) and those applicants seeking judicial review.
Applicants who still intend to make a capital investment are strongly urged to do so before 31 October 2009.
Please note that only SAFA provides an approved designated security that enables an applicant for a pre-1 September 2007 GSM visa to be awarded bonus points for making a capital investment.
Information about lodging a capital investment
Applicants who were affected by the closure of the capital investment scheme may now lodge a deposit with the South Australian Government Financing Authority. This is the only scheme currently available which the department is satisfied meets the requirements in the Regulations.
In consultation with the South Australian Government Financing Authority, the department has facilitated their administration of the reopening of the capital investment scheme by issuing Form 1134 Declaration General Skilled Migration (Bonus points for capital investment in Australia).
To assist processing, applicants may only make a deposit accompanied by Form 1134 Declaration General Skilled Migration (Bonus points for capital investment in Australia) and the letter sent to you from a case officer.
If you lodged your GSM application before 1 September 2007 but have not had your case assessed (you have received no contact from a case officer) and you either indicated an intention to lodge a capital investment on your application form, or now want to rely on a capital investment to achieve the bonus five (5) points, you are now encouraged to contact the ASPC using the post-lodgement enquiry form to request a Form 1134 and letter from the department enabling a capital investment to be lodged. Please note that this form is generally only issued once a case has been assessed as meeting all other requirements. The department is prepared to provide you with this opportunity to lodge a capital investment given SAFA's closure, however, this should not be taken as an indication of a likely outcome on your application. In due course, your application will be assessed in its entirety.
See: Post-lodgement enquiry form
Note: The South Australian Government Financing Authority will not accept investments for migration purposes unless accompanied by Form 1134 and the letter sent to you from the department.
See: SAFA Migration Bonds
Those applicants who are no longer able to lodge the capital investment may still pursue other options relevant to their circumstances.
What other visa options do I have?
Applicants should check if their nominated occupation has been added to the Migration Occupation in Demand List (MODL). If your occupation is now listed on the MODL, you will be awarded at least an additional 15 points. In this instance the department will resume processing of your application subject to the priority processing directions.
See: Is your occupation in demand?
Applicants could seek to claim the maximum for English language points available under Schedule 6A, 'competent English'. To achieve 'competent' English, an applicant must score at least six (6) on each of the four (4) components of the International English Language Test Scheme (IELTS) test. Applicants who can demonstrate this level of English language proficiency will achieve 20 points on the GSM points test.
Note: under Schedule 6A of the pre 1 September 2007 visas, native English speakers from the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America and the Republic of Ireland may have already been awarded the maximum points for English language.
Applicants can seek bonus points for demonstrated proficiency in a ‘designated/community language’. Applicants who can demonstrate this proficiency via NAATI accreditation or overseas qualification (equivalent to an Australian bachelor degree) in a designated language, are eligible for the award of five (5) points on the GSM points test if they have not claimed other bonus points.
See: Australian Community Language
Applicants may be able to claim 'partner skills' points if their partner is able to satisfy the relevant age, English language ability, recent work experience or Australian study, and if they have obtained a suitable skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.
Important: You cannot claim 'partner skills' points if your partner is an Australian permanent resident or an Australian Citizen.
Applicants also have the option to reapply under the new GSM visa stream and be assessed against the post 1 September 2007 requirements. However, please note that there are no provisions to refund any Visa Application Charge (VAC) paid in respect of a withdrawn application and you will need to pay another VAC to lodge a new application.
Detailed information regarding the current offshore and onshore GSM visa subclasses is available on the department's website.
See: Visa Options
Applicants may also wish to consider employer sponsored visa options.
See: Employer Sponsored Visas
Detailed information about the priority processing directions is available on the department's website.
See: What's New? Recent Changes in General Skilled Migration
I want to apply for a new GSM visa
Applicants affected by the Capital Investment Scheme who decide to lodge a new visa application must meet all the eligibility criteria for the new GSM visa at the time of making a new application.
You should include a cover note stating that you have a current undecided GSM application.
If you are onshore, and you hold a Bridging Visa (BVA or BVB), to avoid it ceasing, do not withdraw your current application until your new application has been decided.
Applicants who decide to lodge a new GSM visa application must pay a new VAC.
If you decide to lodge a further application, please contact the Adelaide Skilled Processing Centre and provide the details of your new application.
Can my current application be used to grant me a different visa?
The Regulations allow, in limited circumstances, certain applications for one visa subclass or class to be considered against the criteria for another without having to apply for a new visa.
Applicants who have applied for a Skilled – Independent (subclass 136) visa can also be considered for a State/Territory Nominated Independent (subclass 137) visa if they are able to secure nomination by a State or Territory. Applicants should consult the relevant State or Territory website to determine whether their nominated occupation is on a State's occupation list.
See: Nomination by State/Territory Government
Important: Although the information available from this webpage refers to applicants for a subclass 176 visa, it is also relevant to applicants for a Skilled - Independent (Migrant) Class BN visa.
If you applied for one of the following visas:
* Skilled – Independent (subclass 136) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored (subclass 138) visa
* Skilled – Independent Overseas Student (subclass 880) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored Overseas Student (subclass 881) visa.
you may be eligible to be considered for one of the following:
* Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa if you have an Australian employer who is willing to nominate you
* Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) if you have been offered a position in a designated area
* Labour Agreement (LA) visa if you have a nomination from an employer under a Labour Agreement.
If you are eligible, you do not need to lodge a further application to be considered against the criteria for an ENS, RSMS or LA visa.
See: Skilled workers permanent visa options
How can I apply for nomination from an employer or State or Territory government?
You can check if a State or Territory is willing to sponsor applicants with your occupation and then contact them directly for nomination.
See: Nomination by State/Territory government
In some circumstances, States may be willing to nominate applicants even if their occupation is not on their State lists. You may wish to approach the State you intend to live in to see if they will nominate you.
You may also have your skills and work experience listed on the Skill Matching Database. This provides a database to employers and State and Territory Governments who are willing to nominate applicants who have applied for the following permanent visas:
* Skilled – Independent (subclass 136) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored (subclass 138) visa
* Skilled – Independent Overseas Student (subclass 880) visa
* Skilled – Australian Sponsored Overseas Student (subclass 881) visa.
You will need to provide your personal contact details as well as details of your qualifications and work history. If you have a partner, they may also complete the form and be entered on the database.
If an employer or State and Territory Government is interested in nominating you, they will contact you for further information.
If you applied for one of these visas and now wish to have your employment details listed on the Skill Matching Database, you will need to complete Form 1266.
See:
Form 1266 (152KB PDF file)
Skill Matching Database Overview
Student Visa Checks Strengthened
* Background
* What are these measures?
* When will this happen?
* Why is Australia strengthening its checking for certain student applicants?
* If I apply for a Student visa, will I be subject to these checks?
* Will these checks lead to processing delays?
* How do I know if my agent has access to or is suspended from the eVisa system?
* What happens to my application if my agent is suspended?
* Where can I get further information?
* Other relevant information
Background
On 20 August 2009, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship announced the strengthening of checks on student visa applications to prevent fraud and ensure students have the financial capacity to live and study in Australia.
See: Student visa checks strengthened
As one of the measures to strengthen integrity, the department will be strengthening checks around parts of the student visa case load in India, Mauritius, Nepal, Brazil, Zimbabwe and Pakistan.
Australia’s student visa program supports the entry of genuine international students, for whom the department provides a convenient, efficient service. The targeted measures will address concerns around some elements within the student case load relating to document fraud, financial capacity and student bona fides.
What are these measures?
The measures implemented with immediate effect include:
* upgrading the interview program to confirm the genuineness of the applicant and to check financial capacity
* removing or restricting eVisa access for some agents where there is evidence of fraud or inactivity
* restricting access to eVisa for some segments of the case load if analysis demonstrates restricted access would allow for better control.
When will this happen?
The measures come into immediate effect.
Why is Australia strengthening its checking for certain student applicants?
The purpose of undertaking these measures is to ensure genuine students receive high quality education and enjoy their experience in Australia. These measures build on work already conducted across the Student visa program to combat fraud.
This approach is consistent with other countries that receive large numbers of student visa applications.
If I apply for a Student visa, will I be subject to these checks?
All Student visa applicants are subject to standard immigration checks which include health, character and security checks. In addition, all applicants for a Student visa must show that they have a genuine intention to enter Australia for the purpose of study. The evidence required to meet this requirement varies according to the level of immigration risk of the visa applicant, which is determined based on objective data. All Student visa applicants must meet certain financial, English language proficiency and other requirements (including educational attainment).
The department routinely seeks further information to verify the evidence provided with visa applications. The precise checks to be undertaken will be determined on a case by case basis. This will include face to face, or phone interviews for some applicants.
Will these checks lead to processing delays?
Prospective students are encouraged to apply well before their intended course commences in Australia and to ensure their application is complete. Incomplete applications without all relevant documents can cause delays in processing an application. For students applying through eVisa from outside Australia, they can lodge their application up to three months before their course commences. For students lodging paper visa applications, they can lodge up to four months before their course commences.
Where additional checks are required, the application may take longer. However, every effort will be made to process complete applications within published service standards.
How do I know if my agent has access to or is suspended from the eVisa system?
Education and migration agents lodging visa applications online via the department’s eVisa system sign up to meet certain standards as a condition of access. A list of agents with access to eVisa is available on the department’s website.
See: List of Agents Participating in the Trial of Electronic Visa Application Lodgement (254KB PDF file)
Based upon a recently completed audit of agents with eVisa access for Student visas, the department will suspend those agents who have been found not to meet agreed standards. The agents who have their access removed will be taken off the list.
What happens to my application if my agent is suspended?
Your application will still be processed by the department and assessed the same as any other application. The department will contact your agent to discuss the process for finalising outstanding applications.
Where can I get further information?
Further information and updates about student visas are available on the department’s website.
See: What's New for Students and Sponsored Training?
For enquiries please contact the department.
If you are in Australia
Telephone: 131 881
If you are outside Australia
Contact your nearest departmental office
See: Immigration Offices outside Australia
Other relevant information
The department has special arrangements in place to help international students when education providers have ‘defaulted’ on their agreement with students to provide a course.
See: Information for students affected by provider default
Information on standards for agents to access eVisa
See: Agreement for Registered Migration Agents to Lodge eVisa applications (94KB PDF file)
Education agents (offshore) will need to contact their nearest Australian Immigration office to obtain a copy of their Agreement to Lodge eVisa Applications.
* What are these measures?
* When will this happen?
* Why is Australia strengthening its checking for certain student applicants?
* If I apply for a Student visa, will I be subject to these checks?
* Will these checks lead to processing delays?
* How do I know if my agent has access to or is suspended from the eVisa system?
* What happens to my application if my agent is suspended?
* Where can I get further information?
* Other relevant information
Background
On 20 August 2009, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship announced the strengthening of checks on student visa applications to prevent fraud and ensure students have the financial capacity to live and study in Australia.
See: Student visa checks strengthened
As one of the measures to strengthen integrity, the department will be strengthening checks around parts of the student visa case load in India, Mauritius, Nepal, Brazil, Zimbabwe and Pakistan.
Australia’s student visa program supports the entry of genuine international students, for whom the department provides a convenient, efficient service. The targeted measures will address concerns around some elements within the student case load relating to document fraud, financial capacity and student bona fides.
What are these measures?
The measures implemented with immediate effect include:
* upgrading the interview program to confirm the genuineness of the applicant and to check financial capacity
* removing or restricting eVisa access for some agents where there is evidence of fraud or inactivity
* restricting access to eVisa for some segments of the case load if analysis demonstrates restricted access would allow for better control.
When will this happen?
The measures come into immediate effect.
Why is Australia strengthening its checking for certain student applicants?
The purpose of undertaking these measures is to ensure genuine students receive high quality education and enjoy their experience in Australia. These measures build on work already conducted across the Student visa program to combat fraud.
This approach is consistent with other countries that receive large numbers of student visa applications.
If I apply for a Student visa, will I be subject to these checks?
All Student visa applicants are subject to standard immigration checks which include health, character and security checks. In addition, all applicants for a Student visa must show that they have a genuine intention to enter Australia for the purpose of study. The evidence required to meet this requirement varies according to the level of immigration risk of the visa applicant, which is determined based on objective data. All Student visa applicants must meet certain financial, English language proficiency and other requirements (including educational attainment).
The department routinely seeks further information to verify the evidence provided with visa applications. The precise checks to be undertaken will be determined on a case by case basis. This will include face to face, or phone interviews for some applicants.
Will these checks lead to processing delays?
Prospective students are encouraged to apply well before their intended course commences in Australia and to ensure their application is complete. Incomplete applications without all relevant documents can cause delays in processing an application. For students applying through eVisa from outside Australia, they can lodge their application up to three months before their course commences. For students lodging paper visa applications, they can lodge up to four months before their course commences.
Where additional checks are required, the application may take longer. However, every effort will be made to process complete applications within published service standards.
How do I know if my agent has access to or is suspended from the eVisa system?
Education and migration agents lodging visa applications online via the department’s eVisa system sign up to meet certain standards as a condition of access. A list of agents with access to eVisa is available on the department’s website.
See: List of Agents Participating in the Trial of Electronic Visa Application Lodgement (254KB PDF file)
Based upon a recently completed audit of agents with eVisa access for Student visas, the department will suspend those agents who have been found not to meet agreed standards. The agents who have their access removed will be taken off the list.
What happens to my application if my agent is suspended?
Your application will still be processed by the department and assessed the same as any other application. The department will contact your agent to discuss the process for finalising outstanding applications.
Where can I get further information?
Further information and updates about student visas are available on the department’s website.
See: What's New for Students and Sponsored Training?
For enquiries please contact the department.
If you are in Australia
Telephone: 131 881
If you are outside Australia
Contact your nearest departmental office
See: Immigration Offices outside Australia
Other relevant information
The department has special arrangements in place to help international students when education providers have ‘defaulted’ on their agreement with students to provide a course.
See: Information for students affected by provider default
Information on standards for agents to access eVisa
See: Agreement for Registered Migration Agents to Lodge eVisa applications (94KB PDF file)
Education agents (offshore) will need to contact their nearest Australian Immigration office to obtain a copy of their Agreement to Lodge eVisa Applications.
Employer Sponsored Workers
What's New for Employer-Sponsored Workers
On this page
* 457 visa program – Integrity reforms – 14 September 2009
* Subclass 457 – market salary rates
* Changes to English Language Proficiency – 14 September 2009
* Subclass 457 visa holders affected by the economic downturn
* Changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) visa program
* Changes to salary levels for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
* Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) sponsor attestation
* Subclass 457 Integrity Review final report by Ms Barbara Deegan
* Subclass 457 – External Reference Group
* Arrangements for the on-hire industry – Subclass 457 visa program
* Arrangements for the meat industry – Subclass 457 visa program
457 visa program – Integrity reforms – 14 September 2009
From 14 September 2009 major integrity-focused reforms to the Subclass 457 visa program came into force. These reforms include:
* a new Sponsorship Obligations regime
* a new system for the payment of salary to Subclass 457 visa holders
* a stronger sanctions regime, including civil penalties
* new arrangements for the payment of health costs for 457 visa holders.
The reforms are designed to enhance the integrity of the program and ensure the program continues to provide industry with the necessary skills while not undermining local training and employment opportunities.
Detailed information on the changes and how they affect both sponsors and visa holders can be found on the website.
See:
Employer Obligations
Employee Obligations
Subclass 457 – Sponsorship Obligations Frequently Asked Questions – Sponsors
Subclass 457 – Sponsorship Obligations Frequently Asked Questions – Visa Holders
Subclass 457 – Health Insurance Frequently Asked Questions – Sponsors
Subclass 457 – Health Insurance Frequently Asked Questions – Visa Holders
Subclass 457 – market salary rates
From 14 September 2009, all sponsors of Subclass 457 visa holders (457 sponsors) will be required to adhere to a new series of Sponsorship Obligations. For 457 sponsors, the obligation to ensure equivalent terms and conditions of employment will mean that they pay market salary rates to their overseas workers. For people who were already Subclass 457 visa holders on 14 September 2009, transitional arrangements will apply.
More information on market salary rates (including transitional arrangements) is available.
See:
Subclass 457 – Market Salary Rates
Subclass 457 – Market Rates Frequently Asked Questions – Sponsors
Subclass 457 – Market Rates Frequently Asked Questions – Visa Holders
Changes to English Language Proficiency
There are some changes to the English language proficiency requirements for Subclass 457 visa which came into effect on 14 September 2009.
All primary Subclass 457 visa applicants who are sponsored by a Standard Business Sponsor must demonstrate that they have English language proficiency that is equivalent to an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test score of at least 5 in each of the four test components of speaking, reading, writing and listening. Prior to 14 September 2009, applicants required an average test score of at least 5 across the four test components.
Where the nominated occupation requires a higher level of English (equivalent to IELTS test score of more than 5 in each of the four test components) because it forms part of that occupation’s registration, licensing or membership requirement, the visa applicant must have at least the standard of English language proficiency required for the grant of that registration, licence or membership.
This requirement affects all new subclass 457 visa applications from 14 September 2009, as well as visa applications which were made before but not decided by 14 September 2009.
See:
Changes to the Subclass 457 Visa Program – English Language Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions About English Language Requirements
Subclass 457 visa holders affected by the economic downturn
Australia's temporary skilled migration program aims to fill skill shortages within the Australian economy that cannot be filled from the local labour market. More information is available on the department's website.
See: FAQ – Subclass 457 Visa Holders Affected by the Economic Downturn
Changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) visa program
Important changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) visa program came into effect on 1 July 2009. More information is available on the department's website.
See: Changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) Visa Program – Information current at 1 July 2009
Changes to salary levels for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
Market salary rates do not apply to the Employer Nomination Scheme as they do to the Subclass 457 visa program. Employers must instead ensure the position pays a salary that satisfies the minimum salary specified for the occupation.
See: Gazette notice (866KB PDF file)
Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) sponsor attestation
On 1 April 2009, the Minster for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans announced a requirement for sponsors to attest in writing that they have a strong record of, or a demonstrated commitment to:
* employing local labour
and
* non-discriminatory employment practices.
This requirement came into effect on 27 June 2009.
See: Frequently Asked Questions – Attestation
Subclass 457 Integrity Review final report by Ms Barbara Deegan
On 14 November 2008 the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Senator Chris Evans, released the report of the Visa Subclass 457 Integrity Review conducted by industrial relations expert Barbara Deegan.
See: Subclass 457 Integrity Review
Subclass 457 – External Reference Group
Following concerns raised in a number of industries (particularly in the construction, mining and tourism sectors) the Australian Government announced a package of measures designed to address skills and labour shortages within the Australian economy.
See: Subclass 457 – External Reference Group
Arrangements for the on-hire industry – Subclass 457 visa program
Labour agreement arrangements for the on-hire industry in Australia came into effect from 1 October 2007.
See: Labour agreement arrangements for the on-hire industry
Arrangements for the meat industry – Subclass 457 visa program
Labour agreements arrangements for the meat industry in Australia came into effect from 10 September 2007.
See: Labour agreement arrangements for the meat industry
On this page
* 457 visa program – Integrity reforms – 14 September 2009
* Subclass 457 – market salary rates
* Changes to English Language Proficiency – 14 September 2009
* Subclass 457 visa holders affected by the economic downturn
* Changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) visa program
* Changes to salary levels for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
* Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) sponsor attestation
* Subclass 457 Integrity Review final report by Ms Barbara Deegan
* Subclass 457 – External Reference Group
* Arrangements for the on-hire industry – Subclass 457 visa program
* Arrangements for the meat industry – Subclass 457 visa program
457 visa program – Integrity reforms – 14 September 2009
From 14 September 2009 major integrity-focused reforms to the Subclass 457 visa program came into force. These reforms include:
* a new Sponsorship Obligations regime
* a new system for the payment of salary to Subclass 457 visa holders
* a stronger sanctions regime, including civil penalties
* new arrangements for the payment of health costs for 457 visa holders.
The reforms are designed to enhance the integrity of the program and ensure the program continues to provide industry with the necessary skills while not undermining local training and employment opportunities.
Detailed information on the changes and how they affect both sponsors and visa holders can be found on the website.
See:
Employer Obligations
Employee Obligations
Subclass 457 – Sponsorship Obligations Frequently Asked Questions – Sponsors
Subclass 457 – Sponsorship Obligations Frequently Asked Questions – Visa Holders
Subclass 457 – Health Insurance Frequently Asked Questions – Sponsors
Subclass 457 – Health Insurance Frequently Asked Questions – Visa Holders
Subclass 457 – market salary rates
From 14 September 2009, all sponsors of Subclass 457 visa holders (457 sponsors) will be required to adhere to a new series of Sponsorship Obligations. For 457 sponsors, the obligation to ensure equivalent terms and conditions of employment will mean that they pay market salary rates to their overseas workers. For people who were already Subclass 457 visa holders on 14 September 2009, transitional arrangements will apply.
More information on market salary rates (including transitional arrangements) is available.
See:
Subclass 457 – Market Salary Rates
Subclass 457 – Market Rates Frequently Asked Questions – Sponsors
Subclass 457 – Market Rates Frequently Asked Questions – Visa Holders
Changes to English Language Proficiency
There are some changes to the English language proficiency requirements for Subclass 457 visa which came into effect on 14 September 2009.
All primary Subclass 457 visa applicants who are sponsored by a Standard Business Sponsor must demonstrate that they have English language proficiency that is equivalent to an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test score of at least 5 in each of the four test components of speaking, reading, writing and listening. Prior to 14 September 2009, applicants required an average test score of at least 5 across the four test components.
Where the nominated occupation requires a higher level of English (equivalent to IELTS test score of more than 5 in each of the four test components) because it forms part of that occupation’s registration, licensing or membership requirement, the visa applicant must have at least the standard of English language proficiency required for the grant of that registration, licence or membership.
This requirement affects all new subclass 457 visa applications from 14 September 2009, as well as visa applications which were made before but not decided by 14 September 2009.
See:
Changes to the Subclass 457 Visa Program – English Language Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions About English Language Requirements
Subclass 457 visa holders affected by the economic downturn
Australia's temporary skilled migration program aims to fill skill shortages within the Australian economy that cannot be filled from the local labour market. More information is available on the department's website.
See: FAQ – Subclass 457 Visa Holders Affected by the Economic Downturn
Changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) visa program
Important changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) visa program came into effect on 1 July 2009. More information is available on the department's website.
See: Changes to the Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) Visa Program – Information current at 1 July 2009
Changes to salary levels for the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
Market salary rates do not apply to the Employer Nomination Scheme as they do to the Subclass 457 visa program. Employers must instead ensure the position pays a salary that satisfies the minimum salary specified for the occupation.
See: Gazette notice (866KB PDF file)
Subclass 457 – Business (Long Stay) sponsor attestation
On 1 April 2009, the Minster for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans announced a requirement for sponsors to attest in writing that they have a strong record of, or a demonstrated commitment to:
* employing local labour
and
* non-discriminatory employment practices.
This requirement came into effect on 27 June 2009.
See: Frequently Asked Questions – Attestation
Subclass 457 Integrity Review final report by Ms Barbara Deegan
On 14 November 2008 the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Senator Chris Evans, released the report of the Visa Subclass 457 Integrity Review conducted by industrial relations expert Barbara Deegan.
See: Subclass 457 Integrity Review
Subclass 457 – External Reference Group
Following concerns raised in a number of industries (particularly in the construction, mining and tourism sectors) the Australian Government announced a package of measures designed to address skills and labour shortages within the Australian economy.
See: Subclass 457 – External Reference Group
Arrangements for the on-hire industry – Subclass 457 visa program
Labour agreement arrangements for the on-hire industry in Australia came into effect from 1 October 2007.
See: Labour agreement arrangements for the on-hire industry
Arrangements for the meat industry – Subclass 457 visa program
Labour agreements arrangements for the meat industry in Australia came into effect from 10 September 2007.
See: Labour agreement arrangements for the meat industry
Professionals and other Skilled Migrants
What's New? Recent Changes in General Skilled Migration
* New priority processing directions for certain skilled migration visas – 23 September 2009
* Tighter English language requirements from 1 January 2010
* Introduction of JobReady Test from 1 January 2010
* Submissions welcomed in response to the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) Review second Issues Paper
* Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme
* Overpayment of Visa Application Charge
* Changes to English language requirements for offshore applicants from 1 July 2009
* Students and General Skilled Migration
* Changes to Trades Skills Assessments for offshore skills assessments – effective 15 May 2009
* Police checks for online lodged General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa applications
New priority processing directions for certain skilled migration visas – 23 September 2009
The Minister has set a new priority processing direction which comes into effect on 23 September 2009 and applies to certain skilled migration visas.
See:
2009–2010 Updated Priority Processing ( 64KB PDF file)
Critical Skills List ( 39KB PDF file)
Nomination by State/Territory government
Is your occupation in demand?
Tighter English language requirements from 1 January 2010
On 12 May 2009, the Minister announced tighter English language requirements for onshore GSM applicants from 1 January 2010.
See: Tighter English language requirements for GSM visas from 1 January 2010 ( 43KB PDF file)
Introduction of JobReady Test from 1 January 2010
Applicants who apply for an onshore GSM visa from 1 January 2010 and nominate a trade occupation must meet the new JobReady requirement.
See: Introduction of JobReady Test for GSM visas from 1 January 2010 ( 30KB PDF file)
Submissions welcomed in response to the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) Review second Issues Paper
The second issues paper as part of the MODL Review to assess the central skills targeting mechanism for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is now available.
The evaluation process will be a major step in constructing a framework for migration which will meet Australia's longer term economic, social and demographic needs.
See: Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) Review second Issues Paper
Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme on 31 October 2009 for pre-1 September 2007 GSM visa applications – 6 August 2009
From 31 October 2009, the South Australian Government Financing Authority has announced it will not accept any further applications from GSM applicants who wish to lodge a capital investment, as it will close the scheme.
See: Frequently Asked Questions – Capital Investment Scheme
Overpayment of Visa Application Charge
The department is in the process of contacting specific General Skilled Migration applicants who may have paid a Visa Application Charge greater than the amount prescribed by Migration Regulations. Letters have been sent to affected clients informing them of this situation and of the procedure they will need to follow to process a repayment. It is important that clients only send requested information to the address specified in the letter.
Changes to English language requirements for offshore applicants from 1 July 2009
On 1 July 2009, changes to the minimum English language requirement for General Skilled Migration applicants came into effect. These changes affect applications for subclasses 175, 176 and 475.
Important: The eVisa lodgement process does not automatically identify these changes or prevent lodgement for clients whose English language levels no longer meet the minimum requirements for these visas. Applications lodged without providing evidence of meeting the new English requirements will not meet the criteria for grant of a visa. Clients using the eVisa system who are claiming Concessional Competent English may also be affected by these changes. More information is available on the department’s website.
See: Changes to English Language Requirements for Offshore Applicants
Students and General Skilled Migration
Important new information is available for students about the General Skilled Migration program.
See: Students and General Skilled Migration
Changes to Trades Skills Assessments for offshore skills assessments
Some trade occupations on the Skilled Occupation List have both Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) and Vocational Education Training and Assessment Services (VETASSESS) listed as the assessing authority. Currently VETASSESS, working in a consortium with a number of Australian registered training organisations, is the assessing authority for certain skilled trade occupations if the applicant is a resident of the United Kingdom, India, Sri Lanka, South Africa or the Philippines.
From 15 May 2009, applicants from other countries who are willing and able to be assessed in one of these five countries can choose to be assessed by the VETASSESS consortium, or can continue to apply to TRA for their skills assessment.
Police checks for online lodged General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa applications
If you are lodging an online onshore GSM visa, you do not need to provide the transaction ID for your Australian Federal Police (AFP) check with your GSM visa application.
The AFP has advised that the transaction ID can only be provided when the check is completed. It is not necessary to contact the AFP to obtain the transaction ID in order for you to lodge your GSM visa application.
Note: You must have already submitted the request for an AFP check before you lodge your GSM visa application.
When you have received your police check, it should be forwarded to the department.
See: Professionals and other skilled migrants visas
* New priority processing directions for certain skilled migration visas – 23 September 2009
* Tighter English language requirements from 1 January 2010
* Introduction of JobReady Test from 1 January 2010
* Submissions welcomed in response to the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) Review second Issues Paper
* Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme
* Overpayment of Visa Application Charge
* Changes to English language requirements for offshore applicants from 1 July 2009
* Students and General Skilled Migration
* Changes to Trades Skills Assessments for offshore skills assessments – effective 15 May 2009
* Police checks for online lodged General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa applications
New priority processing directions for certain skilled migration visas – 23 September 2009
The Minister has set a new priority processing direction which comes into effect on 23 September 2009 and applies to certain skilled migration visas.
See:
2009–2010 Updated Priority Processing ( 64KB PDF file)
Critical Skills List ( 39KB PDF file)
Nomination by State/Territory government
Is your occupation in demand?
Tighter English language requirements from 1 January 2010
On 12 May 2009, the Minister announced tighter English language requirements for onshore GSM applicants from 1 January 2010.
See: Tighter English language requirements for GSM visas from 1 January 2010 ( 43KB PDF file)
Introduction of JobReady Test from 1 January 2010
Applicants who apply for an onshore GSM visa from 1 January 2010 and nominate a trade occupation must meet the new JobReady requirement.
See: Introduction of JobReady Test for GSM visas from 1 January 2010 ( 30KB PDF file)
Submissions welcomed in response to the Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) Review second Issues Paper
The second issues paper as part of the MODL Review to assess the central skills targeting mechanism for the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is now available.
The evaluation process will be a major step in constructing a framework for migration which will meet Australia's longer term economic, social and demographic needs.
See: Migration Occupations in Demand List (MODL) Review second Issues Paper
Closure of the Capital Investment Scheme on 31 October 2009 for pre-1 September 2007 GSM visa applications – 6 August 2009
From 31 October 2009, the South Australian Government Financing Authority has announced it will not accept any further applications from GSM applicants who wish to lodge a capital investment, as it will close the scheme.
See: Frequently Asked Questions – Capital Investment Scheme
Overpayment of Visa Application Charge
The department is in the process of contacting specific General Skilled Migration applicants who may have paid a Visa Application Charge greater than the amount prescribed by Migration Regulations. Letters have been sent to affected clients informing them of this situation and of the procedure they will need to follow to process a repayment. It is important that clients only send requested information to the address specified in the letter.
Changes to English language requirements for offshore applicants from 1 July 2009
On 1 July 2009, changes to the minimum English language requirement for General Skilled Migration applicants came into effect. These changes affect applications for subclasses 175, 176 and 475.
Important: The eVisa lodgement process does not automatically identify these changes or prevent lodgement for clients whose English language levels no longer meet the minimum requirements for these visas. Applications lodged without providing evidence of meeting the new English requirements will not meet the criteria for grant of a visa. Clients using the eVisa system who are claiming Concessional Competent English may also be affected by these changes. More information is available on the department’s website.
See: Changes to English Language Requirements for Offshore Applicants
Students and General Skilled Migration
Important new information is available for students about the General Skilled Migration program.
See: Students and General Skilled Migration
Changes to Trades Skills Assessments for offshore skills assessments
Some trade occupations on the Skilled Occupation List have both Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) and Vocational Education Training and Assessment Services (VETASSESS) listed as the assessing authority. Currently VETASSESS, working in a consortium with a number of Australian registered training organisations, is the assessing authority for certain skilled trade occupations if the applicant is a resident of the United Kingdom, India, Sri Lanka, South Africa or the Philippines.
From 15 May 2009, applicants from other countries who are willing and able to be assessed in one of these five countries can choose to be assessed by the VETASSESS consortium, or can continue to apply to TRA for their skills assessment.
Police checks for online lodged General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa applications
If you are lodging an online onshore GSM visa, you do not need to provide the transaction ID for your Australian Federal Police (AFP) check with your GSM visa application.
The AFP has advised that the transaction ID can only be provided when the check is completed. It is not necessary to contact the AFP to obtain the transaction ID in order for you to lodge your GSM visa application.
Note: You must have already submitted the request for an AFP check before you lodge your GSM visa application.
When you have received your police check, it should be forwarded to the department.
See: Professionals and other skilled migrants visas
Austria Visas, Immigration and Refugees
* Professionals and other skilled workers seeking work or business in Australia.
* People moving permanently to Australia or returning from overseas.
* Tourists, working holiday, people transiting, visiting family or friends, or visiting for business or an event.
* People studying or seeking study, training, or skills development in Australia.
* Education agents and providers.
* Employers who sponsor skilled people to work in Australia.
* Australia's Refugee and Humanitarian programs
New in Visas, Immigration and Refugees
* New priority processing direction for certain skilled migration visas
* Subclass 457 worker protection integrity reforms - sponsorship and health insurance information now available
* Student Visa Checks Strengthened
* Capital Investment Scheme is ending soon
* Review opens for submissions to the Migration Occupations in Demand List
* Information is now available on Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) sponsor attestation
* People moving permanently to Australia or returning from overseas.
* Tourists, working holiday, people transiting, visiting family or friends, or visiting for business or an event.
* People studying or seeking study, training, or skills development in Australia.
* Education agents and providers.
* Employers who sponsor skilled people to work in Australia.
* Australia's Refugee and Humanitarian programs
New in Visas, Immigration and Refugees
* New priority processing direction for certain skilled migration visas
* Subclass 457 worker protection integrity reforms - sponsorship and health insurance information now available
* Student Visa Checks Strengthened
* Capital Investment Scheme is ending soon
* Review opens for submissions to the Migration Occupations in Demand List
* Information is now available on Subclass 457 Business (Long Stay) sponsor attestation
شركت لينيكس (Leenyx) با هويت حقوقي ثبت شده در ايران (رایان پژوهان کاوش) و انگلستان (Leenyx Limited) داراي پنج سال سابقه درخشان در توسعه نرم افزا
شركت لينيكس (Leenyx) با هويت حقوقي ثبت شده در ايران (رایان پژوهان کاوش) و انگلستان (Leenyx Limited) داراي پنج سال سابقه درخشان در توسعه نرم افزاري تحت وب ، ميزباني وب سايت و صدور كارت هاي اعتباري راهنماي شماست.
كارتهاي اعتباري، رايج ترين ابزار جهت خريد هاي اينترنتي هستند. اما از آنجا كه ايران جزء كشورهاي تحريم شده قرار دارد، هم اكنون اين نوع كارتها بسهولت در دسترس نيستند.
شركت لينيكس (Leenyx)، با ارائه كارتهاي اعتباري ویزا( Visa ) از نوع پیش پرداخت شده (Prepaid)، اين امكان را براي شما مهيا مي سازد كه بسادگي بتوانيد صاحب يك كارت اعتباري شويد.
اين نوع كارتها غيرقابل شارژ بوده و فقط به اندازه مبلغ موجودي آنها جهت خرید های اینترنتی و تلفنی قابل استفاده مي باشند.
چرا غیر قابل شارژ ؟
با توجه به شرایط فعلی کشورمان و تحریمهای موجود و احتمال مسدود شدن موجودی کارتهای فیزیکی و قابل شارژ ، تجربه فعالیت ما در این زمینه نشان داده است که پشتیبانی و هزینه تمام شده ویزا کارت های غیرقابل شارژ بسیار مناسب تر از نوع قابل شارژ آن می باشد و رضایت مشتریان فعلی ما گواه این مدعاست .
موارد مصرف
كليه سايتهاي پذيرنده ويزاكارت مانند : اخذ پذيرش در دانشگاهها ، هزينه ثبت مقالات علمي ، پرداخت هزينه هاست و دومين ، رزرو هتل در خارج از كشور ، خريد مجلات خارجي ، شركت در كنفرانس هاي بين المللي ، خريد و دانلود نرم افزار ، پرداخت حق عضويت وب سايت ،تبلیغات در گوگل ، پرداخت حق شركت در آزمونهاي علمي از جمله تافل (GRE , (TOEFL و ...
واحد ارزی کارت :
دلار آمریکا(قابل تبدیل به ارز های دیگر) مدت اعتبار کارت :
1 سال از زمان صدور نحوه ارسال کارت :
از طریق ایمیل
کارت 20$ : 35 هزار تومان کارت 175$ : 209 هزار تومان
کارت 25$ : 39 هزار تومان کارت 200$ : 239 هزار تومان
کارت 30$ : 45 هزار تومان کارت 250$ : 289 هزار تومان
کارت 50$ : 69 هزار تومان کارت 300$ : 339 هزار تومان
کارت 75$ : 95 هزار تومان کارت 350$ : 389 هزار تومان
کارت 100$ : 129 هزار تومان کارت 400$ : 449 هزار تومان
کارت 125$ : 159 هزار تومان کارت 450$ : 509 هزار تومان
کارت 150$ : 179 هزار تومان کارت 500$ : 559 هزار تومان
صدور با مبلغ مورد نظر شما تا سقف 500$ ، ظرف مدت یک روز کاری امکان پذیر است .
فرم محاسبه قیمت ریالی کارت اعتباری با مبلغ مورد نظر شما
مبلغ کارت را به دلار آمریکا وارد کنید قیمت نهایی را به تومان را مشاهده کنید
مراحل سفارش کارت :
1- با ما تماس بگیرید (مشترکین تهران : 02122767511 ، مشترکین شهرستانها : 05118448755 ) و مبلغ کارت مورد نظرتان را اعلام کنید .
2- پس از هماهنگی با مسئول مربوطه (داخلی 3)، نسبت به پرداخت وجه اقدام نمایید. ( نحوه پرداخت : از طریق شعب بانکها (ملی حساب سیبا به شماره: 0200217996008 و سامان به شماره 805.800.151070.1 به نام علیرضا نادریان )
از طریق دستگاههای ATM (انتقال کارت به کارت به شماره کارت سیبا : 6037991027029846 و کارت سامان به شماره 6219861201510707 به نام علیرضا نادریان)
3- اگر عضو سایت نیستید ابتدا ثبت نام http://support.leenyx.com نمایید . پس از انجام مراحل ثبت نام بر روی لینک تاییدی که به آدرس ایمیل شما ارسال میشود کلیک کنید تا حساب کاربری شما فعال شود .
4- سپس وارد حساب کاربری خود شوید و پس از کلیک بر روی "Submit a ticket" برای دپارتمان Order Visa Gift Card ، سفارش خود را ارسال نمایید . توجه داشته باشید که فیلدهای فرم را به طور کامل و با دقت (از فونت فارسی استفاده نکنید) پر نمایید .
اطلاعات فیش واریزی و کارت مورد نظر را وارد نمایید . لطفا در فیلد subject ، نام خود ، شماره تماس و مبلغ کارت مورد نیاز را وارد نمایید . مانند : Ali Taheri,$500,09123840300
5- دپارتمان کارتهای اعتباری شرکت پس از دریافت درخواست شما ، حداکثر ظرف مدت 4 ساعت کارت مورد نظر شما را به نام خودتان Register کرده و برای شما ارسال می نماید . توجه داشته باشید
اگر درخواست خود را تا قبل از ساعت 13 هر روز به دپارتمان کارتهای اعتباری ارسال نمایید ، همان روز کارت را دریافت خواهید کرد . در غیر اینصورت کارت شما در لیست سفارش های روز بعد قرار خواهد گرفت
در صورتیکه پس از این زمان کارت به آدرس ایمیل شما ارسال نشد ، وارد حساب کاربری خود شوید ، روی "View Ticket" کلیک کنید و پس از کلیک بر روی تیکت مورد نظر ، اطلاعات کارت خود را در آنجا ملاحظه نمایید .
توصیه های مهم برای کاربران گرامی:
1- با توجه به تحریم های موجود،وب سایت ها کاربران ایرانی (IP ایران) را پذیرا نیستند و می بایست جهت استفاده از کارتهای اعتباری ویزا IP غیر ایرانی مورد استفاده قرار گیرد.
2- لطفأ پیش از انجام پرداخت اینترنتی خود بخش پرسش و پاسخ های متداول را به دقت مطالعه بفرمایید.
3- پس از صدور کارت توسط شرکت لینیکس و دریافت کارت توسط خریدار،مسئولیت نگهداری از اطلاعات محرمانه کارت، به عهده خریدار میباشد.
4- در صورتیکه خریدار، اطلاعات کارت خود را مفقود نماید، شرکت لینیکس هیچگونه مسئولیتی در قبال ارسال مجدد اطلاعات ندارد.
5- لازم به ذکر است که اعتبار یک ساله کارتهای اعتباری فقط جهت استفاده در فرمهای اینترنتی بوده و مشتری می بایست پس از سفارش کارت مجازی، حداکثر تا یک ماه بعد از خرید، از موجودی آن استفاده کنید در غیراینصورت هیچگونه تعهدی در قبال ازبین رفتن موجودی جاری کارت متوجه شرکت لینیکس نخواهد بود.
تلفن تماس جهت سفارش کارت و پشتیبانی: (ساعات تماس : 9 صبح الی 15 بعد از ظهر)
مشترکین تهران : 02122767511 و 09127076238
مشترکین شهرستانها : 05118448755
Need Assistance? Click "Chat Now" to chat with a Live Operator.
Chat Now No Thanks!
Click Here for Live Support
كارتهاي اعتباري، رايج ترين ابزار جهت خريد هاي اينترنتي هستند. اما از آنجا كه ايران جزء كشورهاي تحريم شده قرار دارد، هم اكنون اين نوع كارتها بسهولت در دسترس نيستند.
شركت لينيكس (Leenyx)، با ارائه كارتهاي اعتباري ویزا( Visa ) از نوع پیش پرداخت شده (Prepaid)، اين امكان را براي شما مهيا مي سازد كه بسادگي بتوانيد صاحب يك كارت اعتباري شويد.
اين نوع كارتها غيرقابل شارژ بوده و فقط به اندازه مبلغ موجودي آنها جهت خرید های اینترنتی و تلفنی قابل استفاده مي باشند.
چرا غیر قابل شارژ ؟
با توجه به شرایط فعلی کشورمان و تحریمهای موجود و احتمال مسدود شدن موجودی کارتهای فیزیکی و قابل شارژ ، تجربه فعالیت ما در این زمینه نشان داده است که پشتیبانی و هزینه تمام شده ویزا کارت های غیرقابل شارژ بسیار مناسب تر از نوع قابل شارژ آن می باشد و رضایت مشتریان فعلی ما گواه این مدعاست .
موارد مصرف
كليه سايتهاي پذيرنده ويزاكارت مانند : اخذ پذيرش در دانشگاهها ، هزينه ثبت مقالات علمي ، پرداخت هزينه هاست و دومين ، رزرو هتل در خارج از كشور ، خريد مجلات خارجي ، شركت در كنفرانس هاي بين المللي ، خريد و دانلود نرم افزار ، پرداخت حق عضويت وب سايت ،تبلیغات در گوگل ، پرداخت حق شركت در آزمونهاي علمي از جمله تافل (GRE , (TOEFL و ...
واحد ارزی کارت :
دلار آمریکا(قابل تبدیل به ارز های دیگر) مدت اعتبار کارت :
1 سال از زمان صدور نحوه ارسال کارت :
از طریق ایمیل
کارت 20$ : 35 هزار تومان کارت 175$ : 209 هزار تومان
کارت 25$ : 39 هزار تومان کارت 200$ : 239 هزار تومان
کارت 30$ : 45 هزار تومان کارت 250$ : 289 هزار تومان
کارت 50$ : 69 هزار تومان کارت 300$ : 339 هزار تومان
کارت 75$ : 95 هزار تومان کارت 350$ : 389 هزار تومان
کارت 100$ : 129 هزار تومان کارت 400$ : 449 هزار تومان
کارت 125$ : 159 هزار تومان کارت 450$ : 509 هزار تومان
کارت 150$ : 179 هزار تومان کارت 500$ : 559 هزار تومان
صدور با مبلغ مورد نظر شما تا سقف 500$ ، ظرف مدت یک روز کاری امکان پذیر است .
فرم محاسبه قیمت ریالی کارت اعتباری با مبلغ مورد نظر شما
مبلغ کارت را به دلار آمریکا وارد کنید قیمت نهایی را به تومان را مشاهده کنید
مراحل سفارش کارت :
1- با ما تماس بگیرید (مشترکین تهران : 02122767511 ، مشترکین شهرستانها : 05118448755 ) و مبلغ کارت مورد نظرتان را اعلام کنید .
2- پس از هماهنگی با مسئول مربوطه (داخلی 3)، نسبت به پرداخت وجه اقدام نمایید. ( نحوه پرداخت : از طریق شعب بانکها (ملی حساب سیبا به شماره: 0200217996008 و سامان به شماره 805.800.151070.1 به نام علیرضا نادریان )
از طریق دستگاههای ATM (انتقال کارت به کارت به شماره کارت سیبا : 6037991027029846 و کارت سامان به شماره 6219861201510707 به نام علیرضا نادریان)
3- اگر عضو سایت نیستید ابتدا ثبت نام http://support.leenyx.com نمایید . پس از انجام مراحل ثبت نام بر روی لینک تاییدی که به آدرس ایمیل شما ارسال میشود کلیک کنید تا حساب کاربری شما فعال شود .
4- سپس وارد حساب کاربری خود شوید و پس از کلیک بر روی "Submit a ticket" برای دپارتمان Order Visa Gift Card ، سفارش خود را ارسال نمایید . توجه داشته باشید که فیلدهای فرم را به طور کامل و با دقت (از فونت فارسی استفاده نکنید) پر نمایید .
اطلاعات فیش واریزی و کارت مورد نظر را وارد نمایید . لطفا در فیلد subject ، نام خود ، شماره تماس و مبلغ کارت مورد نیاز را وارد نمایید . مانند : Ali Taheri,$500,09123840300
5- دپارتمان کارتهای اعتباری شرکت پس از دریافت درخواست شما ، حداکثر ظرف مدت 4 ساعت کارت مورد نظر شما را به نام خودتان Register کرده و برای شما ارسال می نماید . توجه داشته باشید
اگر درخواست خود را تا قبل از ساعت 13 هر روز به دپارتمان کارتهای اعتباری ارسال نمایید ، همان روز کارت را دریافت خواهید کرد . در غیر اینصورت کارت شما در لیست سفارش های روز بعد قرار خواهد گرفت
در صورتیکه پس از این زمان کارت به آدرس ایمیل شما ارسال نشد ، وارد حساب کاربری خود شوید ، روی "View Ticket" کلیک کنید و پس از کلیک بر روی تیکت مورد نظر ، اطلاعات کارت خود را در آنجا ملاحظه نمایید .
توصیه های مهم برای کاربران گرامی:
1- با توجه به تحریم های موجود،وب سایت ها کاربران ایرانی (IP ایران) را پذیرا نیستند و می بایست جهت استفاده از کارتهای اعتباری ویزا IP غیر ایرانی مورد استفاده قرار گیرد.
2- لطفأ پیش از انجام پرداخت اینترنتی خود بخش پرسش و پاسخ های متداول را به دقت مطالعه بفرمایید.
3- پس از صدور کارت توسط شرکت لینیکس و دریافت کارت توسط خریدار،مسئولیت نگهداری از اطلاعات محرمانه کارت، به عهده خریدار میباشد.
4- در صورتیکه خریدار، اطلاعات کارت خود را مفقود نماید، شرکت لینیکس هیچگونه مسئولیتی در قبال ارسال مجدد اطلاعات ندارد.
5- لازم به ذکر است که اعتبار یک ساله کارتهای اعتباری فقط جهت استفاده در فرمهای اینترنتی بوده و مشتری می بایست پس از سفارش کارت مجازی، حداکثر تا یک ماه بعد از خرید، از موجودی آن استفاده کنید در غیراینصورت هیچگونه تعهدی در قبال ازبین رفتن موجودی جاری کارت متوجه شرکت لینیکس نخواهد بود.
تلفن تماس جهت سفارش کارت و پشتیبانی: (ساعات تماس : 9 صبح الی 15 بعد از ظهر)
مشترکین تهران : 02122767511 و 09127076238
مشترکین شهرستانها : 05118448755
Need Assistance? Click "Chat Now" to chat with a Live Operator.
Chat Now No Thanks!
Click Here for Live Support
How to Get an Immigrant Visa Number to Become a Permanent Resident
A permanent resident or "green card holder" is an immigrant who has been granted the privilege of living and working permanently in the United States.
In order to become a permanent resident, you must obtain an immigration visa number. U.S. law limits the number of immigrant visas available each year. This means that even if the USCIS approves an immigrant visa petition for you, an immigrant visa number may not be issued to you right away. In some cases, several years could pass between the time USCIS approves your immigrant visa petition and the State Department gives you an immigrant visa number. In addition, U.S. law also limits the number of immigrant visas available by country. This means you may have to wait longer if you come from a country with a high demand for U.S. immigrant visas.
Process
You must go through a multi-step process to become an immigrant:
* In most cases, your employer or relative (known as the petitioner) must submit an immigration petition to USCIS. (Exception: Certain applicants such as priority workers, investors, certain special immigrants, and diversity immigrants can petition on their own behalf.)
* USCIS will send a notice to the petitioner if the visa petition is approved.
* USCIS sends the approved petition to the Department of State's National Visa Center where it will remain until an immigrant visa number becomes available.
* The beneficiary (the person seeking the immigration visa) will receive two notices from the National Visa Center: one when the visa petition is received, and again when an immigrant visa number is available.
* If you are already in the U.S., you may apply to adjust to permanent resident status. If you are outside the U.S., you will be notified to go to the local U.S. consulate to complete the processing for an immigrant visa.
Eligibility
Immigrant visa numbers are assigned based on a preference system.
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including parents, spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21, do not have to wait for an immigrant visa number to become available once the petition filed for them is approved by the USCIS. An immigrant visa number will be immediately available for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens.
Other relatives in the remaining categories must wait for a visa to become available according to the following preferences:
* First Preference: Unmarried, adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. Adult means 21 years of age or older.
* Second Preference: Spouses of lawful permanent residents, and the unmarried sons and daughters (regardless of age) of lawful permanent residents and their children.
* Third Preference: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, their spouses and their minor children.
* Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens, their spouses and their minor children.
If your immigration is based on employment, you must wait for an immigrant visa number to become available according to the following preferences:
* First Preference: Priority Workers including aliens with extraordinary abilities, outstanding professors and researchers, and certain multinational executives and managers.
* Second Preference: Members of Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability.
* Third Preference: Skilled Workers, professionals and other qualified workers.
* Fourth Preference: Certain special immigrants including those in religious vocations.
* Fifth Preference: Employment Creation Immigrants.
Tips
Contacting the NVC: You do not need to contact the National Visa Center while you're waiting for an immigrant visa number to be assigned to you, unless you change your address or there is a change in your personal situation that may affect your eligibility for an immigrant visa.
Researching Wait Times: Approved visa petitions are placed in chronological order according to the date each visa petition was filed. The date the visa petition was filed is known as your priority date. The State Department publishes a bulletin that shows the month and year of the visa petitions they are working on by country and preference category. If you compare your priority date with the date listed in the bulletin, you will have an idea of how long it will take to get an immigrant visa number.
In order to become a permanent resident, you must obtain an immigration visa number. U.S. law limits the number of immigrant visas available each year. This means that even if the USCIS approves an immigrant visa petition for you, an immigrant visa number may not be issued to you right away. In some cases, several years could pass between the time USCIS approves your immigrant visa petition and the State Department gives you an immigrant visa number. In addition, U.S. law also limits the number of immigrant visas available by country. This means you may have to wait longer if you come from a country with a high demand for U.S. immigrant visas.
Process
You must go through a multi-step process to become an immigrant:
* In most cases, your employer or relative (known as the petitioner) must submit an immigration petition to USCIS. (Exception: Certain applicants such as priority workers, investors, certain special immigrants, and diversity immigrants can petition on their own behalf.)
* USCIS will send a notice to the petitioner if the visa petition is approved.
* USCIS sends the approved petition to the Department of State's National Visa Center where it will remain until an immigrant visa number becomes available.
* The beneficiary (the person seeking the immigration visa) will receive two notices from the National Visa Center: one when the visa petition is received, and again when an immigrant visa number is available.
* If you are already in the U.S., you may apply to adjust to permanent resident status. If you are outside the U.S., you will be notified to go to the local U.S. consulate to complete the processing for an immigrant visa.
Eligibility
Immigrant visa numbers are assigned based on a preference system.
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including parents, spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21, do not have to wait for an immigrant visa number to become available once the petition filed for them is approved by the USCIS. An immigrant visa number will be immediately available for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens.
Other relatives in the remaining categories must wait for a visa to become available according to the following preferences:
* First Preference: Unmarried, adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. Adult means 21 years of age or older.
* Second Preference: Spouses of lawful permanent residents, and the unmarried sons and daughters (regardless of age) of lawful permanent residents and their children.
* Third Preference: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, their spouses and their minor children.
* Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens, their spouses and their minor children.
If your immigration is based on employment, you must wait for an immigrant visa number to become available according to the following preferences:
* First Preference: Priority Workers including aliens with extraordinary abilities, outstanding professors and researchers, and certain multinational executives and managers.
* Second Preference: Members of Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability.
* Third Preference: Skilled Workers, professionals and other qualified workers.
* Fourth Preference: Certain special immigrants including those in religious vocations.
* Fifth Preference: Employment Creation Immigrants.
Tips
Contacting the NVC: You do not need to contact the National Visa Center while you're waiting for an immigrant visa number to be assigned to you, unless you change your address or there is a change in your personal situation that may affect your eligibility for an immigrant visa.
Researching Wait Times: Approved visa petitions are placed in chronological order according to the date each visa petition was filed. The date the visa petition was filed is known as your priority date. The State Department publishes a bulletin that shows the month and year of the visa petitions they are working on by country and preference category. If you compare your priority date with the date listed in the bulletin, you will have an idea of how long it will take to get an immigrant visa number.
What Is the Difference Between an Immigrant Visa and a Nonimmigrant Visa?
Question: What Is the Difference Between an Immigrant Visa and a Nonimmigrant Visa?
Your choice of visa is determined by the purpose of your travel to the United States.
Answer:
If your stay will be temporary, then you'll want to make an application for a nonimmigrant visa. This type of visa allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry to request admittance from a Department of Homeland Security official.
If you are a citizen of a country that's part of the Visa Waiver Program, you may come to the U.S. without a visa if you meet certain requirements.
There are more than 20 visas available under the nonimmigrant classification, to cover the variety of reasons why someone may visit for a short time. These reasons include tourism, business, medical treatment and certain types of temporary work.
Immigrant visas are granted to those who intend to live and work permanently in the U.S. There are 4 major categories within this visa classification, including immediate relatives, special immigrants, family-sponsored and employer-sponsored.
Your choice of visa is determined by the purpose of your travel to the United States.
Answer:
If your stay will be temporary, then you'll want to make an application for a nonimmigrant visa. This type of visa allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry to request admittance from a Department of Homeland Security official.
If you are a citizen of a country that's part of the Visa Waiver Program, you may come to the U.S. without a visa if you meet certain requirements.
There are more than 20 visas available under the nonimmigrant classification, to cover the variety of reasons why someone may visit for a short time. These reasons include tourism, business, medical treatment and certain types of temporary work.
Immigrant visas are granted to those who intend to live and work permanently in the U.S. There are 4 major categories within this visa classification, including immediate relatives, special immigrants, family-sponsored and employer-sponsored.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
What Is the Difference Between an Immigrant Visa and a Nonimmigrant Visa?
Question: What Is the Difference Between an Immigrant Visa and a Nonimmigrant Visa?
Your choice of visa is determined by the purpose of your travel to the United States.
Answer:
If your stay will be temporary, then you'll want to make an application for a nonimmigrant visa. This type of visa allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry to request admittance from a Department of Homeland Security official.
If you are a citizen of a country that's part of the Visa Waiver Program, you may come to the U.S. without a visa if you meet certain requirements.
There are more than 20 visas available under the nonimmigrant classification, to cover the variety of reasons why someone may visit for a short time. These reasons include tourism, business, medical treatment and certain types of temporary work.
Immigrant visas are granted to those who intend to live and work permanently in the U.S. There are 4 major categories within this visa classification, including immediate relatives, special immigrants, family-sponsored and employer-sponsored.
Your choice of visa is determined by the purpose of your travel to the United States.
Answer:
If your stay will be temporary, then you'll want to make an application for a nonimmigrant visa. This type of visa allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry to request admittance from a Department of Homeland Security official.
If you are a citizen of a country that's part of the Visa Waiver Program, you may come to the U.S. without a visa if you meet certain requirements.
There are more than 20 visas available under the nonimmigrant classification, to cover the variety of reasons why someone may visit for a short time. These reasons include tourism, business, medical treatment and certain types of temporary work.
Immigrant visas are granted to those who intend to live and work permanently in the U.S. There are 4 major categories within this visa classification, including immediate relatives, special immigrants, family-sponsored and employer-sponsored.
Student Visa Basics
General Information
Foreign students may study full time at thousands of learning institutions approved by USCIS, including American language schools, high schools, universities and other institutions of higher education.
If your main purpose of travel to the U.S. is tourism but you also want to take studies of less than 18 hours per week, you may be able to do so on a visitor visa. If, however, your studies will be more than 18 hours per week, you must secure an F-1 or M-1 student visa. F-1 student visas are granted to academic and language students for the full duration of their studies. M-1 student visas are issued to vocational students for up to 1 year of studies.
Application Process
First you must apply and get accepted to an USCIS-approved learning institution. Your school will provide you with Form I-20, F-1 or M-1 as applicable. Both you and your school must sign this form. Your school will enter this information into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), an internet-based system that maintains nonimmigrant student information.
You will also provide Form DS-156 Nonimmigrant Visa Application as well as DS-158 Contact Information and Work History for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicant.
After you application has been accepted, you will attend an interview. A digital fingerprint scan will be taken in addition to a digital photo.
You will need a passport with an expiry date at least 6 months past the end date of your period of study. A passport-type photograph must also be supplied as well as a receipt confirming all application fees have been paid.
Tip: Plan ahead! The summer months before the start of fall semesters are the busiest months for Embassies and Consulates, and you might have trouble getting an appointment during those months. Your visa can be issued 120 days or less in advance of your study registration date. If you apply more than 120 days in advance, your application will be held until the 120-day mark.
Documentation
Be prepared to provide transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions. You will also need to show your standardized tests scores. Both the learning institution as well as USCIS will need financial evidence showing that you and/or your sponsor can cover your tuition and living expenses while you're in the U.S. Proof may include tax documents, bank statements, and if applicable, business registrations and licenses.
Travel
You cannot arrive in the U.S. more than 30 days before your study start date. If you need to come sooner than this, you must obtain a visitor visa. Note, that if you choose this route, you will need to file for an adjustment from visitor status to student status. This will require an additional fee, and you can't begin your studies until the adjustment has been approved.
Entering the U.S.
When you arrive at the port-of-entry, you will provide Form I-20 to the Border Protection official. The official will review your documents and authorize your entry into the U.S. You will be enrolled in the US-VISIT program and an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record will be placed in your passport. DO NOT lose this form, as it is the only record of your arrival in the country.
Duration of a Student Visa
If you've been admitted for the full duration of your studies as an F-1 visa holder, you may remain in the U.S. until your studies are completed, even if this takes you beyond your F-1 visa expiry date. Even if your visa expires, you may remain in the States as long as you continue your full-time studies. Once your studies are complete, you are allowed some additional time before you must exit the country. F-1 students may stay for an additional 60 days.
M-1 students are admitted to the U.S. for a 1-year course of study. They have 30 days to depart the U.S. after completion of their studies, but their total time in the U.S. cannot exceed 1 year.
Foreign students may study full time at thousands of learning institutions approved by USCIS, including American language schools, high schools, universities and other institutions of higher education.
If your main purpose of travel to the U.S. is tourism but you also want to take studies of less than 18 hours per week, you may be able to do so on a visitor visa. If, however, your studies will be more than 18 hours per week, you must secure an F-1 or M-1 student visa. F-1 student visas are granted to academic and language students for the full duration of their studies. M-1 student visas are issued to vocational students for up to 1 year of studies.
Application Process
First you must apply and get accepted to an USCIS-approved learning institution. Your school will provide you with Form I-20, F-1 or M-1 as applicable. Both you and your school must sign this form. Your school will enter this information into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), an internet-based system that maintains nonimmigrant student information.
You will also provide Form DS-156 Nonimmigrant Visa Application as well as DS-158 Contact Information and Work History for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicant.
After you application has been accepted, you will attend an interview. A digital fingerprint scan will be taken in addition to a digital photo.
You will need a passport with an expiry date at least 6 months past the end date of your period of study. A passport-type photograph must also be supplied as well as a receipt confirming all application fees have been paid.
Tip: Plan ahead! The summer months before the start of fall semesters are the busiest months for Embassies and Consulates, and you might have trouble getting an appointment during those months. Your visa can be issued 120 days or less in advance of your study registration date. If you apply more than 120 days in advance, your application will be held until the 120-day mark.
Documentation
Be prepared to provide transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions. You will also need to show your standardized tests scores. Both the learning institution as well as USCIS will need financial evidence showing that you and/or your sponsor can cover your tuition and living expenses while you're in the U.S. Proof may include tax documents, bank statements, and if applicable, business registrations and licenses.
Travel
You cannot arrive in the U.S. more than 30 days before your study start date. If you need to come sooner than this, you must obtain a visitor visa. Note, that if you choose this route, you will need to file for an adjustment from visitor status to student status. This will require an additional fee, and you can't begin your studies until the adjustment has been approved.
Entering the U.S.
When you arrive at the port-of-entry, you will provide Form I-20 to the Border Protection official. The official will review your documents and authorize your entry into the U.S. You will be enrolled in the US-VISIT program and an I-94 Arrival-Departure Record will be placed in your passport. DO NOT lose this form, as it is the only record of your arrival in the country.
Duration of a Student Visa
If you've been admitted for the full duration of your studies as an F-1 visa holder, you may remain in the U.S. until your studies are completed, even if this takes you beyond your F-1 visa expiry date. Even if your visa expires, you may remain in the States as long as you continue your full-time studies. Once your studies are complete, you are allowed some additional time before you must exit the country. F-1 students may stay for an additional 60 days.
M-1 students are admitted to the U.S. for a 1-year course of study. They have 30 days to depart the U.S. after completion of their studies, but their total time in the U.S. cannot exceed 1 year.
What Is the Visa Waiver Program?
Question: What Is the Visa Waiver Program?
Answer:
Definition
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Not all countries participate in the VWP, and not all visitors from VWP countries are eligible for the program.
Participating Countries
There are currently 35 countries participating in the VWP:
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Exceptions
Canada, Bermuda and Mexico do not participate in the VWP. The Immigration and Nationality Act allows visa-free travel under certain circumstances.
Requirements
Currently: Each VWP traveler must present a valid machine-readable passport and a signed I-94W Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record to U.S. officials at the port of entry.
Beginning January 12, 2009: Each VWP traveler may travel to the United States under the VWP provided they have an e-passport and an approved authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA™).
Visit the Department of State Visa Waiver Program for more information.
Answer:
Definition
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. Not all countries participate in the VWP, and not all visitors from VWP countries are eligible for the program.
Participating Countries
There are currently 35 countries participating in the VWP:
Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Exceptions
Canada, Bermuda and Mexico do not participate in the VWP. The Immigration and Nationality Act allows visa-free travel under certain circumstances.
Requirements
Currently: Each VWP traveler must present a valid machine-readable passport and a signed I-94W Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record to U.S. officials at the port of entry.
Beginning January 12, 2009: Each VWP traveler may travel to the United States under the VWP provided they have an e-passport and an approved authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA™).
Visit the Department of State Visa Waiver Program for more information.
How Do I Check On the Status of My Case?
Online
If you have an application receipt number, you can check your case status by entering your 13-character receipt number on the USCIS My Case Status search page.
E-Mail
Create an account at USCIS My Case Status and sign up for automatic case status updates via e-mail.
Text Message
When you create an account at My Case Status, you can sign up to receive a text message notifying you when a case status update has occurred. (A U.S. cell phone number is required.)
Phone
Call the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. Follow the voice prompts and have your application receipt number ready.
Mail
If you filed an application with your local USCIS FIeld Office, you can write directly to that office for an update. In your letter, be sure to include the following:
* Your name and address, and if different, your name as it appears on your application
* Your A-number (Alien number)
* Your date of birth
* The date and place your application was filed
* Your application receipt number
* A copy of the most recent notice sent to you by the USCIS, if you have received one
* The date and office where you were fingerprinted, as well as the location of your interview, if it has taken place or been assigned yet.
In Person
Make an InfoPass appointment and bring the following information with you:
* Your A-number
* The date and place your application was filed
* Your application receipt number
* Copies of any notices sent to you by the USCIS
Additional Resources
* Find out how long it will take to get your visa. You can also look up local processing times for USCIS applications and petitions.
* USCIS offers a toll-free military help line exclusively for members of the United States military and their immediate families.
* Looking for green card lottery results? Starting with DV-2010, diversity visa status information will be made available online.
If you have an application receipt number, you can check your case status by entering your 13-character receipt number on the USCIS My Case Status search page.
Create an account at USCIS My Case Status and sign up for automatic case status updates via e-mail.
Text Message
When you create an account at My Case Status, you can sign up to receive a text message notifying you when a case status update has occurred. (A U.S. cell phone number is required.)
Phone
Call the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. Follow the voice prompts and have your application receipt number ready.
If you filed an application with your local USCIS FIeld Office, you can write directly to that office for an update. In your letter, be sure to include the following:
* Your name and address, and if different, your name as it appears on your application
* Your A-number (Alien number)
* Your date of birth
* The date and place your application was filed
* Your application receipt number
* A copy of the most recent notice sent to you by the USCIS, if you have received one
* The date and office where you were fingerprinted, as well as the location of your interview, if it has taken place or been assigned yet.
In Person
Make an InfoPass appointment and bring the following information with you:
* Your A-number
* The date and place your application was filed
* Your application receipt number
* Copies of any notices sent to you by the USCIS
Additional Resources
* Find out how long it will take to get your visa. You can also look up local processing times for USCIS applications and petitions.
* USCIS offers a toll-free military help line exclusively for members of the United States military and their immediate families.
* Looking for green card lottery results? Starting with DV-2010, diversity visa status information will be made available online.
Fiance Visa - Understanding the K1 Fiance Visa Process Immigrating to the U.S. as a Fiance
A K1 fiance visa is a nonimmigrant visa, which allows a foreign fiancé or fiancée (to simplify things, we'll use "fiance" in the rest of this article) entry into the U.S. to marry a U.S. citizen. After marriage, an application is made for an adjustment of status for permanent residence.
Obtaining the K1 visa is a multi-step process. First, the U.S. citizen files a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once that is approved, the foreign fiance will be allowed to complete the process to obtain a K1 visa. The foreign fiance will provide additional documentation to the local U.S. embassy, attend a medical exam and visa interview.
Filing the Fiance Visa Petition
* The U.S. citizen (also knows as the "petitioner") submits a petition for his or her foreign fiance (also known as the "beneficiary") to the USCIS.
* The petitioner submits Form I-129F Petition for Alien Fiance, along with Form G-325A Biographic Information, current fees and any required documentation to the appropriate USCIS Service Center.
* After a few weeks, the U.S. petitioner receives Form I-797, the first Notice of Action (NOA), from the USCIS acknowledging that the petition has been received.
* Depending on processing times, the petitioner then receives the second NOA from the USCIS acknowledging that the petition has been approved.
* The USCIS Service Center forwards the petition to the National Visa Center.
* The National Visa Center will process the file and run preliminary background checks on the beneficiary, then forward the approved petition to the beneficiary's embassy, as listed in the I-129F.
Acquiring the Fiance Visa
* The embassy receives the file and processes it locally.
* The embassy sends a package to the beneficiary that includes a checklist of documents that must be collected. The beneficiary will be instructed to send certain items back to the embassy immediately, while other items will be brought to the interview.
* The beneficiary will complete the checklist and any forms, include any documents required immediately and send the package back to the embassy.
* Once received, the consulate will send a letter to the beneficiary confirming the date and time of the visa interview.
* The beneficiary attends a medical interview.
* The beneficiary attends the visa interview. The interviewing officer will review all documents, ask questions, and make a decision on the case.
* If approved, the K1 fiance visa will be issued that day or within the week, depending on the embassy.
Activating the Fiance Visa - Entering the U.S.
* The beneficiary will travel to the U.S. within 6 months of the K1 fiance visa being issued.
* At the port of entry, an immigration officer will review the paperwork and finalize the visa, allowing the beneficiary to officially enter the U.S.
First Steps - In the U.S.
* The K1 fiance visa holder should apply for a Social Security number shortly after entering the U.S.
* The couple may now apply for a marriage license. Watch your timing! Most states apply a short waiting period between applying for the license and the marriage ceremony.
Marriage
* The happy couple can now tie the knot! The marriage must take place within 90 days of activating the K1 visa.
After Marriage
* If the foreign spouse is making a name change after marriage, take the new Social Security card and marriage certificate back to the Social Security Administration office to make a name change on the card.
Adjustment of Status
* Now it's time to apply for an Adjustment of Status (AOS) to become a permanent resident. It is important to file for the AOS before the K1 expiry date, otherwise you will be out-of-status. If the foreign spouse wants to work in the U.S. or travel outside the U.S. before permanent resident status is granted, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and/or Advance Parole (AP) must be filed along with the AOS.
Obtaining the K1 visa is a multi-step process. First, the U.S. citizen files a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once that is approved, the foreign fiance will be allowed to complete the process to obtain a K1 visa. The foreign fiance will provide additional documentation to the local U.S. embassy, attend a medical exam and visa interview.
Filing the Fiance Visa Petition
* The U.S. citizen (also knows as the "petitioner") submits a petition for his or her foreign fiance (also known as the "beneficiary") to the USCIS.
* The petitioner submits Form I-129F Petition for Alien Fiance, along with Form G-325A Biographic Information, current fees and any required documentation to the appropriate USCIS Service Center.
* After a few weeks, the U.S. petitioner receives Form I-797, the first Notice of Action (NOA), from the USCIS acknowledging that the petition has been received.
* Depending on processing times, the petitioner then receives the second NOA from the USCIS acknowledging that the petition has been approved.
* The USCIS Service Center forwards the petition to the National Visa Center.
* The National Visa Center will process the file and run preliminary background checks on the beneficiary, then forward the approved petition to the beneficiary's embassy, as listed in the I-129F.
Acquiring the Fiance Visa
* The embassy receives the file and processes it locally.
* The embassy sends a package to the beneficiary that includes a checklist of documents that must be collected. The beneficiary will be instructed to send certain items back to the embassy immediately, while other items will be brought to the interview.
* The beneficiary will complete the checklist and any forms, include any documents required immediately and send the package back to the embassy.
* Once received, the consulate will send a letter to the beneficiary confirming the date and time of the visa interview.
* The beneficiary attends a medical interview.
* The beneficiary attends the visa interview. The interviewing officer will review all documents, ask questions, and make a decision on the case.
* If approved, the K1 fiance visa will be issued that day or within the week, depending on the embassy.
Activating the Fiance Visa - Entering the U.S.
* The beneficiary will travel to the U.S. within 6 months of the K1 fiance visa being issued.
* At the port of entry, an immigration officer will review the paperwork and finalize the visa, allowing the beneficiary to officially enter the U.S.
First Steps - In the U.S.
* The K1 fiance visa holder should apply for a Social Security number shortly after entering the U.S.
* The couple may now apply for a marriage license. Watch your timing! Most states apply a short waiting period between applying for the license and the marriage ceremony.
Marriage
* The happy couple can now tie the knot! The marriage must take place within 90 days of activating the K1 visa.
After Marriage
* If the foreign spouse is making a name change after marriage, take the new Social Security card and marriage certificate back to the Social Security Administration office to make a name change on the card.
Adjustment of Status
* Now it's time to apply for an Adjustment of Status (AOS) to become a permanent resident. It is important to file for the AOS before the K1 expiry date, otherwise you will be out-of-status. If the foreign spouse wants to work in the U.S. or travel outside the U.S. before permanent resident status is granted, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and/or Advance Parole (AP) must be filed along with the AOS.
What Is Family-Based Immigration?
Question: What Is Family-Based Immigration?
Answer:
Family-based immigration is an immigrant visa classification. It allows a foreign national to become a lawful permanent resident through a relative who is a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Both the immigrant and the U.S. citizen or permanent resident must successfully complete the immigration process to allow the foreign national to come to live and work permanently in the U.S. The U.S. citizen or permanent resident must sponsor the foreign national, proving that he or she has enough income or assets to support the immigrant when he or she enters the U.S.
Answer:
Family-based immigration is an immigrant visa classification. It allows a foreign national to become a lawful permanent resident through a relative who is a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Both the immigrant and the U.S. citizen or permanent resident must successfully complete the immigration process to allow the foreign national to come to live and work permanently in the U.S. The U.S. citizen or permanent resident must sponsor the foreign national, proving that he or she has enough income or assets to support the immigrant when he or she enters the U.S.
Immigration Medical Exam
Immigration Medical Exam
Prepare for the Medical Exam
By Jennifer McFadyen, About.com
See More About:
* permanent residence
* temporary visas
* adjustment of status
* visa waivers
A medical exam is required for all immigrant visas and some nonimmigrant visas, as well as for refugees and adjustment of status applicants. The purpose of the medical exam is to determine if you have any health conditions that need attention prior to immigrating.
Admissibility
Panel physicians and civil surgeons will classify any medical conditions into "Class A" or "Class B." Class A medical conditions render you inadmissible to the U.S. The following four conditions would make you inadmissible on medical grounds:
* individuals who are found to have a communicable disease of public health significance, including, chancroid; gonorrhea; granuloma inguinale; acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS); Hansen’s disease (infectious leprosy); lymphogranuloma venereum; infectious state syphilis; and infectious tuberculosis (Class A TB)
* immigrant visa and adjustment of applicants who have not received all of the required vaccinations
* individuals who have current physical or mental disorders, with harmful behavior associated with that disorder, or past physical or mental disorders, with associated harmful behavior that is likely to recur or lead to other harmful behavior
* individuals who are found to be drug abusers or drug addicts
Other medical conditions may be categorized as Class B and include physical or mental abnormalities, diseases, or serious/permanent disabilities. Waivers may be granted for Class B medical conditions.
While it is natural to worry about the outcome of your exam, being prepared will go a long way to helping you relax.
Before the Exam
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will provide you with a list of doctors or clinics they have approved to perform immigration medical exams. Make your appointment as soon as possible so as not to delay the processing of your file.
Complete form I-693 Medical Examination of Aliens Seeking Adjustment of Status and bring it with you to your appointment. Some consulates require you to provide passport-style photos at your medical exam. Check to see if your office requires photos as part of your supporting materials.
Bring payment as indicated by the doctor's office, clinic or as directed in your instruction packet from the USCIS.
You will be required to provide proof of immunizations. If you have any records of immunizations (vaccinations), bring them to your appointment. The doctor will tell you if additional immunizations are needed and where you can get them (usually at your local public health department).
If you have a chronic medical problem which you feel may impact the exam, bring copies of your medical records to show that you are being treated and that your condition is controlled.
Examination and Testing
The doctor will examine you for certain physical and mental health conditions. You will have to remove your clothes for the medical procedures. If the doctor determines that you need more tests because of a condition found during your medical exam, you may be sent to your own doctor or to the local public health department for tests or treatment.
Be completely honest during your exam and truthfully answer any questions posed by medical staff. It is not necessary, however, to volunteer more information than is requested of you.
You will be tested for tuberculosis (TB). Applicants two years old or older will be required to have a tuberculin skin test or chest x-ray. The doctor may require an applicant younger than two to have a skin test if the child has a history of contact with a known TB case, or if there is another reason to suspect TB disease.
You will have a blood test to determine if you have syphilis (if you are 15 years of age or older) as well as to see if you have the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) infection.
After the Exam
At the completion of your exam, the doctor or clinic will provide you with documentation that you will need to complete your adjustment of status.
If there are any irregularities regarding your medical exam, remember that the doctor is providing a medical opinion and can only make recommendations. The consulate or USCIS has the final decision on whether you will be approved.
Prepare for the Medical Exam
By Jennifer McFadyen, About.com
See More About:
* permanent residence
* temporary visas
* adjustment of status
* visa waivers
A medical exam is required for all immigrant visas and some nonimmigrant visas, as well as for refugees and adjustment of status applicants. The purpose of the medical exam is to determine if you have any health conditions that need attention prior to immigrating.
Admissibility
Panel physicians and civil surgeons will classify any medical conditions into "Class A" or "Class B." Class A medical conditions render you inadmissible to the U.S. The following four conditions would make you inadmissible on medical grounds:
* individuals who are found to have a communicable disease of public health significance, including, chancroid; gonorrhea; granuloma inguinale; acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS); Hansen’s disease (infectious leprosy); lymphogranuloma venereum; infectious state syphilis; and infectious tuberculosis (Class A TB)
* immigrant visa and adjustment of applicants who have not received all of the required vaccinations
* individuals who have current physical or mental disorders, with harmful behavior associated with that disorder, or past physical or mental disorders, with associated harmful behavior that is likely to recur or lead to other harmful behavior
* individuals who are found to be drug abusers or drug addicts
Other medical conditions may be categorized as Class B and include physical or mental abnormalities, diseases, or serious/permanent disabilities. Waivers may be granted for Class B medical conditions.
While it is natural to worry about the outcome of your exam, being prepared will go a long way to helping you relax.
Before the Exam
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will provide you with a list of doctors or clinics they have approved to perform immigration medical exams. Make your appointment as soon as possible so as not to delay the processing of your file.
Complete form I-693 Medical Examination of Aliens Seeking Adjustment of Status and bring it with you to your appointment. Some consulates require you to provide passport-style photos at your medical exam. Check to see if your office requires photos as part of your supporting materials.
Bring payment as indicated by the doctor's office, clinic or as directed in your instruction packet from the USCIS.
You will be required to provide proof of immunizations. If you have any records of immunizations (vaccinations), bring them to your appointment. The doctor will tell you if additional immunizations are needed and where you can get them (usually at your local public health department).
If you have a chronic medical problem which you feel may impact the exam, bring copies of your medical records to show that you are being treated and that your condition is controlled.
Examination and Testing
The doctor will examine you for certain physical and mental health conditions. You will have to remove your clothes for the medical procedures. If the doctor determines that you need more tests because of a condition found during your medical exam, you may be sent to your own doctor or to the local public health department for tests or treatment.
Be completely honest during your exam and truthfully answer any questions posed by medical staff. It is not necessary, however, to volunteer more information than is requested of you.
You will be tested for tuberculosis (TB). Applicants two years old or older will be required to have a tuberculin skin test or chest x-ray. The doctor may require an applicant younger than two to have a skin test if the child has a history of contact with a known TB case, or if there is another reason to suspect TB disease.
You will have a blood test to determine if you have syphilis (if you are 15 years of age or older) as well as to see if you have the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) infection.
After the Exam
At the completion of your exam, the doctor or clinic will provide you with documentation that you will need to complete your adjustment of status.
If there are any irregularities regarding your medical exam, remember that the doctor is providing a medical opinion and can only make recommendations. The consulate or USCIS has the final decision on whether you will be approved.
Family-Sponsored Immigration - A Step-by-Step Immigration Guid
General Tips
The following suggestions will help make the immigration process smoother:
* Include a cover letter with the I-130 Petition detailing what you have included in the packet.
* Make two copies of everything in the packet. This should be a complete copy, including all forms, supporting materials and the check or money order for the filing fee. If the worst happens and the package gets lost in transit, you'll have a complete packet ready to resend. Be sure the foreign relative has complete copies as well, to take to the interview.
* When the foreign national is approved and secures an immigrant visa number, the visa will be valid for 6 months. You must arrive at a U.S. port of entry prior to the expiration date on the visa, otherwise the visa will expire and you will have to start the petition process from scratch.
The following suggestions will help make the immigration process smoother:
* Include a cover letter with the I-130 Petition detailing what you have included in the packet.
* Make two copies of everything in the packet. This should be a complete copy, including all forms, supporting materials and the check or money order for the filing fee. If the worst happens and the package gets lost in transit, you'll have a complete packet ready to resend. Be sure the foreign relative has complete copies as well, to take to the interview.
* When the foreign national is approved and secures an immigrant visa number, the visa will be valid for 6 months. You must arrive at a U.S. port of entry prior to the expiration date on the visa, otherwise the visa will expire and you will have to start the petition process from scratch.
Family-Sponsored Immigration - A Step-by-Step Immigration Guide
Immigrant Visa Number
After the USCIS has approved the initial petition, it will be forwarded to the NVC until an immigrant visa number becomes available. This applies to beneficiaries both within and outside the United States. You can find out when an immigrant visa number may become available for your category by checking the status in the Department of State's Visa Bulletin.
If you are already in the U.S. when a visa number becomes available, you will apply to adjust your status to that of a lawful permanent resident by submitting Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
If you are outside the U.S. when an immigrant visa number becomes available, you will complete the processing and secure a visa number at your U.S. consulate. NVC will provide you with the information you need to complete the processing. You will be asked to finalize a packet of information, which will include Form I-864 Affidavit of Support, supporting documents and additional fees. You must also attend a medical exam and interview.
After the USCIS has approved the initial petition, it will be forwarded to the NVC until an immigrant visa number becomes available. This applies to beneficiaries both within and outside the United States. You can find out when an immigrant visa number may become available for your category by checking the status in the Department of State's Visa Bulletin.
If you are already in the U.S. when a visa number becomes available, you will apply to adjust your status to that of a lawful permanent resident by submitting Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
If you are outside the U.S. when an immigrant visa number becomes available, you will complete the processing and secure a visa number at your U.S. consulate. NVC will provide you with the information you need to complete the processing. You will be asked to finalize a packet of information, which will include Form I-864 Affidavit of Support, supporting documents and additional fees. You must also attend a medical exam and interview.
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