How to migrate to Australia

There a number of immigration schemes for people looking to live and permanently reside in Australia. Most people migrating to Australia do so under the skilled category visa, or by a company sponsoring you to come to Australia.

Australia has certain job areas that need qualified people. To qualify under the skilled category scheme you need to have a skill and qualifications that are listed on this page: Workers - Visas & Immigration. See form Form 1121i Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and Employer Nominated Skilled Occupation List (ENSOL)

There are around 15 pages of different job and skill areas, including occupations under managerial, professional, professional associates and trade categories. Each area has a number of points associated with it. To meet the criteria of a visa you need at least 120 points. You get points for qualifications, English speaking ability etc.

You can also try applying for jobs in demand directly. Seek.com.au is one of the most popular job websites in Australia. Applications for permanent residency (PR) can be made when you are in Australia. You will need to provide documents relating to your education, character refernces, medical tests and a police clearance from your home country.

If you can organize a job before you apply for the visa, your company could sponsor your application and pay for a migration consultant to assist in your application. They may even help you with relocation costs, although you would probably need to have a fairly unique skill or experience for this to happen. IT, finance, engineering, anything related to the mining industry are all areas in demand.

If you go down this route you will then be, at least temporarily tied to this employer. Once you have your PR you can basically do whatever work you want in Australia.

If you decide you want to settle in Australia you can apply for citizenship after a number of years. Providing your home country accepts dual citizenship you can keep two passports. If you have any questions about migrating to Australia, please take a look at the Australia forums.