Embark on your migration journey with legal readiness, emotional resilience and expert advice. Read the first hand insights of our Migration Coordinator, Victoria Capponi, in our latest article below.
Migrating to a different country can be a challenging experience. As a migrant myself, I understand firsthand that the journey to Australia isn’t always smooth sailing.
From grappling with language barriers, navigating cultural differences to developing professional skills in a new labour market and staying on top of ever-changing immigration laws, the challenges can seem daunting.
While preparing your legal documentation is crucial, it is equally important to acknowledge the emotional baggage that often accompanies migration. Leaving behind the country where you grew up, your culture, family, friends, pets, and job can be both exciting and stressful.
So, join me as I share insights and information to ensure that you’ve packed not only your legal luggage, but also your emotional carry-on for a smooth migration journey to Australia.
1. Pre-Flight Essentials – Before Coming to Australia
Obtain a Travel Document
There are a few legal documents you’ll need to travel to Australia, but the most important one is your passport or an acceptable travel document to enter the country.
This document proves your identity and lets you travel between countries. So, it is really important to get one ready before you make any travel arrangements.
Please note that your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay when entering Australia. If you are transiting through another country on your way to or from Australia, please check the entry requirements for that country as many countries require at least 6 months of passport validity for entry.
Explore your Visa Options
Valid Visa upon Entry
As part of your travel documents, you must hold a valid visa or authority to enter Australia, including electronic visas.
A visa is an official document that permits you to enter and/or remain in Australia. Please note that visa labels in travel documents are not required as Australia issues and records visas electronically.
Before travelling to Australia, it is important to explore your visa options. The immigration system can be strict when it comes to the finality of your travel and compliance with visa conditions.
The Australian immigration system has different visa types depending on your reasons for visiting the country.
Reasons for Visiting Australia:
- Visiting the country/ family members.
- Studying or training in a specific field.
- Working in Australia.
- Bringing someone as a partner or family member.
- Seeking humanitarian
Special situations:
- New Zealand Citizens: If you are a New Zealand citizen holding a valid New Zealand passport you are not required to apply for a visa prior to your arrival in Australia.
Upon arrival, you are granted a Special Category visa (subclass 444) (SCV) upon meeting eligibility criteria. This temporary visa permits you as a New Zealand citizen to visit, study, stay, and work in Australia.
As of 1 July 2023, all SCV holders are able to apply directly for citizenship (by conferral) without first applying for and being granted a permanent visa. Before applying, please ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Resident Return: If you hold or have held a Permanent resident visa, to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident, you will need a valid Return Resident Visa (RRV).
The permanent resident status can only be reinstated if the application for a Resident Return visa is granted. If your application for a Resident Return visa is refused, you may need to consider reapplying for another permanent visa, such as a Former Resident visa, a family visa or a skilled visa.
Those who arrive without valid travel documents, visas, or authority will be denied entry to Australia or delayed until their identity and claims to enter Australia are confirmed.
2. In-Transit Tips & Tricks – On your way to Australia
Holding a Transitioning or Adequate Visa
When planning a trip with layovers, it is crucial to check the entry requirements for each country you will be stopping in on your way to Australia well in advance. Depending on your passport and international travel agreements, you may be required to hold a transit or regular visa if your purpose is not to transit.
- Check with the embassy website of the country you will be transiting through. It is also advisable to review any information provided by the airline when you receive your flight tickets.
- Obtaining a transit visa is a straightforward process, but it is good to anticipate potential challenges. Keep in mind that some countries may not be familiar with certain technologies and visa processing times of each country could vary.
- Complete Incoming Passenger card (IPC), including health and character declaration. The Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) is a mandatory declaration required by the Australian law which identifies passengers and records their entry into Australia. These cards will be provided to passengers on board their flight or ship prior to arrival, or by the Australian Border Force at the arrival terminal. Travellers who decline to complete the IPC may face penalties and be denied immigration clearance.
Passengers must answer further questions regarding their migration status, health, and criminal history. The passenger cards should be completed in English, signed and dated upon arrival in Australia. Exemptions from completing a passenger card are available to certain individuals as prescribed in Regulation 3.06 and Schedule 9 of the Migration Regulations.
3. After Arriving to Australia – Welcome to the Land Down Under
Your memorable experience and journey begins now. With your determination and our support, you’ll be thriving in no time!
Insights from my Personal Experience:
- Language Support: If English isn’t your first language, there are abundant resources available to help you overcome any language barriers.
- Accommodation and Employment: Prioritise finding suitable accommodation and securing employment if you haven’t already. Planning your migration path in advance will facilitate your integration into Australian society, professionally and socially.
- Adapting to Cultural Differences: To smoothly integrate into Australian culture and society, make new connections and adapt to local customs, it’s essential to plan your migration path accordingly.
- Staying Updated on Immigration Laws: Immigration laws in Australia undergo regular changes. Stay informed and prepared to navigate these changes confidently.
- Visa Options: Explore various visa options available in Australia, whether you’re a skilled migrant, seeking to join an Australian or New Zealand partner, pursuing professional opportunities, studying, or simply holidaying.
- Seek Professional Assistance: Expert guidance and assistance in navigating any visa challenges, is essential. Do your homework before choosing a Migration Agent to see whether they work within a company or individually, have experience in the area you’re seeking to apply under, read their Reviews. Often the cheapest is not always the best! To provide immigration advice, you must be either a Registered Migration Agent or a Lawyer. A Lawyer is not always experienced and you don’t need a Lawyer unless you’re going to court! Experienced Migration Agents, will successfully navigate the migration process for you and provide honest advice as to the likelihood of success in gaining you the visa you desire.
These are just some of the insights I’ve picked up along my own personal journey that I thought may be helpful for you along yours.
Do you have your own insights? Feel free to share them below.
Or perhaps you’re embarking on a similar journey and require expert guidance from our experienced migration agents?
Then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. Here at Migration Downunder, we offer more than just tailored expertise; we provide compassionate care, ensuring that you’re supported every step of the way.
