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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I locate the nearest Australian Embassy to me ?

Check your local telephone book as most countries have an Australian Embassy or Consulate. For further information visit this site and search for 'Contact Us' http://www.immi.gov.au/

How do I qualify for Australian citizenship ?

Australia welcomes applications from eligible permanent residents who wish to make their commitment to the country by becoming Australian citizens.  Contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) on 131 880 for more information and application kits or telephone our office for further assistance.

What is the IELTS?

IELTS is a test designed to assess a visa applicant’s English language ability.  Please refer to our IELTS information.

What is an Assurance of Support?

This is a legal commitment by a person to repay to the Australian Government certain welfare payments paid to migrants during the AoS period.  For full details see our Assurance of Support information.

What is the 12 month rule for partner visas?

The 12 month rule applies to people who are applying to settle in Australia as the de facto spouse or interdependent partner of an Australian sponsor. Applicants must provide evidence that for the period covering at least 12 months before the visa application is lodged that they had a mutual commitment to a shared life to the exclusion of all others, that the relationship between them is genuine and continuing and that they live together.  Please refer to our One-Year Relationship Requirement information.

At what age will my children go to school?

Education in Australia is compulsory for children aged between 6-17 years and divided into primary and secondary schooling.  Visa holders may enroll students in state sponsored or private schooling.  Traditional primary school begins in year 1 and ends in year 7, and secondary school follows from years 7 to 12.  All students wishing to enter university have a final year assessment and exam called the TEE (Tertiary Entrance Exam) which determines their ranking against other students.

Do we have to pay for education in Australia?

Generally all temporary visa holders are required to pay international school fees.

Can I buy property in Australia?

Temporary visa holders must have foreign investment approval and this is done through FIRB (Foreign Investment Review Board) and is subject to regulations.

Permanent residents may be able to purchase land and build property or buy a new house but they are not allowed to rent their purchased property.

How do I transfer money to Australia from the UK?

Our company can recommend the finance company HIFX to help with money transfers.

Can I borrow money in Australia?

As a temporary resident you may be eligible to borrow money from a finance provider such as a bank.  The finance provider works on a percentage basis and rates often fluctuate.  As a general rule you may need to provide pay slips from your employer for the last 6 months.  For a personal or business loan you require a 40% deposit, and for a house loan a 20% deposit is required.

Can I bring my pets with me when I emigrate?

All visitors in Australia may be allowed to bring their pets subject to a quarantine check.  The conditions for importing pets depend on the country of origin.  All animals are required to get an import permit.  A completed application form must be returned to a quarantine station in order to obtain a permit.  Along with a microchip number for your pet, veterinary certificates must be issued and endorsed by an official vet in the country of export before your pet can arrive in Australia.  This process can be expensive and lengthy (may take 3-6 months) and the owner of the pet is liable for all fees.