The following information is for those intending to come to Australia for the following reasons:

• Business
• Employer nomination
• Events & conferences
• Medical treatment
• Permanent Residency
• Professional Development Programs
• Regional Australia programs
• Sponsorships
• Study
• Tourism
• Transit
• Working in Australia
• Working holiday travellers

AUSTRALIA - IMMIGRATION ADVICE AND VISA NEWS

NEW SKILLED VISAS FOR REGIONAL AUSTRALIA

The Australian Government recently announced a new visa category for skilled migrants willing to settle in regional Australia. The new visa came into effect from 1 July 2004. Under this category, they will be able to obtain a three year temporary visa and after two years will become eligible for permanent residency. Applicants for this visa category must meet the minmum requirements as outlined below.

• be under 45 years of age at time of application, 
• have vocational English language skills,
• be nominated for a skilled occupation and be favourably assessed by an Australian assessing authority,
• and have recent work experience in a skilled occupation or have recently completed an Australian qualification.