Graham-Nguyen & Associates

•    How much will my visa cost?

Your visa application charges are determined by the Australian government.  On top of the visa application charge, there are also fees related to having your skills assessed by an Australian authority, police checked, medical fees and translation and certification fees.  In total, the costs related to your visa application, which are payable to the Australia government will come to approximately AUD 3,000.

There are also professional charges payable to Graham-Nguyen & Associates.  These costs are based on the complexity of the case.  Payment is made in instalments as the case progresses.  Our counsellors will provide a detailed quote along with an explanation of the instalments and other related charges before you sign a contract with us.  

•    What are the processes involved?

A skilled migration visa application works in multiple stages.  The first step is to complete an online assessment so we can determine the best course of action for you.  A counsellor will then contact you to discuss the details of your case.  Once you choose to move forward with your case you will be asked to sign a formal contract with us, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties.  

To complete your Skilled Migration visa application we will take you through the process of having your skills assessed by an Australian authority, having your English and educational qualifications recognised and compiling your visa application.  If you have any dependents we will also need to provide confirmation of the relationships.

 
•    Can Graham-Nguyen & Associates guarantee that my visa application will be successful?

The assessment of your skills and of the Skilled Migration Visa application is carried out by recognised organisations in Australia.  They make the final decision on any application lodged.  It would be irresponsible for Graham-Nguyen & Associates to guarantee your application will be successful.  Any such guarantee provided by an agent should be taken with extreme caution.  

Our success rate with visa applications is very high.  From working within the system we know that there are countless reasons why a seemingly good visa application can be refused.  This usually comes from the fact that the application is not as thorough as it should be.  The Australian Government assumes that each visa application is complete when it is submitted and is under no obligation to request further information or explanation.  It is our job, as your agent, to take the time to get to know you and anticipate and address any issue that might arise that could affect the outcome of your visa application.  From working within the system we know what questions to ask and what the issues might be. Being thorough may mean that we take a little longer to prepare your visa application but the result is that we have a very impressive success rate. 

•    Do I need a job or sponsor in Australia to apply for skilled migration?

No.  This is an independent migration.  You are assessed only on your skills and work history.  If you have a job offer in Australia it may help your case.  

There are also some skilled migration visas available where a sponsor is required.

•    Can I migrate with my spouse and children?

Yes.  You can include your spouse and children in your application.  Same sex partners and de facto partners are also permitted to be included provided certain relationship requirements are met.  

•    Will I need to have my English ability tested and how high should my score be?

Yes.  You will need to provide the results of an IELTS exam not more than 2 years old.  The higher the IELTS score the more points you will score for your Skilled Migration application.  Some industry bodies in Australia also set a minimum IELTS score you need to achieve for your skills assessment.  This varies depending on your occupation.  

•    Does my spouse need to sit an IELTS test?

You can score extra points if your spouse meets certain skills and English level requirements.  Your spouse also needs to demonstrate a basic level of English otherwise they will be enrolled in English language courses in Australia to help them better integrate into Australian society.  The costs of these English courses are paid to the Australian Government before your Skilled Migration Visa is issued.

•    How long will my visa take?

This will vary based on the complexity of your case.  In general terms a skilled migration visa application will take between 3 to 6 months to put together.  Once your visa application is submitted to the Australian Government it may take up to 12 months to be decided.  

•    Will Graham-Nguyen & Associates find me a job in Australia?

In limited circumstances we can help you find a job in Australia.  At the very least we can provide advice on how best to start your Australian job search.

•    Once I am granted a visa, will I be an Australian citizen?

No.  Your initial visa will make you a permanent resident of Australia.  You will be permitted to reside in Australia indefinitely and travel in and out of Australia as many times as you like in your first 5 years.  After 5 years, if you wish to be able to continue to travel in and out of Australia you must apply for a Resident Return Visa.  

Once certain residency requirements have been met, you are permitted to become a citizen of Australia.

•    How well qualified is Graham-Nguyen & Associates to assist in my Skilled Migration application?

We have a deep and thorough knowledge of the Australian Migration Law and the processes involved.  This comes from previously working within the system.  We have provided assistance to numerous clients who have successfully migrated to Australia.  We are happy to answer any questions you might have regarding our background and experience.