Vasanthi – Visa Success
Tell us a bit about your background.
I am Vas, born and raised in Singapore. I arrived in Australia in April 2023, just when I hit my big 30!
As a woman, what has been your experience migrating to Australia?
It has been a long journey since I applied for my visa in October 2022. It was during the time when Australia had opened its borders to foreigners but it also meant I was faced with high competition. I was afraid I would not find a job when I arrived but I found a company which was very open minded and have been working there since.
Migrating in your early 20s is a lot easier I thought, since you are young and may not have as many responsibilities. In my 30s, I was under pressure to find a well-paying job and have a decent living situation. I came here when I did not really know many people as well so I had limited connections. I made some friends through activities I picked up and met friends through them. It is quite challenging when you are older, and you do not feel settled in for a while after. I was very anxious in the beginning especially with the uncertainty around visa situations. Moreover, I did not realize there would be changes to the visa requirements even after I had applied for it. With friends and family, I have been immersing myself into nature doing plenty of outdoor activities. It feels great to be in a city which is so beautiful and has amazing beaches to laze on during the long summer days! It truly helps to get active and stay open minded.
How was your experience with Migration Downunder?
My first virtual consultation with Alice went well. There were many visa options and I was not sure which path to take. Alice was well versed in the current visa requirements so I felt in safe hands soon after. Alice was extremely responsive and attended to all my queries which I had several in the beginning. Her constant communication truly helped to relieve the stress and anxiety anyone might foresee. Even when Alice went on holidays, she would pro-actively connect me with some of the other members on her team to ensure I was attended to. Alice gave very clear and concise instructions which made it easier to navigate through the overwhelming application process. Alice was also very updated in her current knowledge of visa requirements which made her even more reliable when there were news updates on visas.
What are your plans for the future?
I took a one way flight to Sydney and I am happy to know that I have been granted the visa to stay on. I definitely feel a huge weight lifted off my chest as this visa provides me access to more opportunities. Now, I can plan my travels easily without worrying about the status of my visa. I am even considering looking at properties for investment. I am now able to plan my next steps better. I am happy to live closer to my sister. It is now a home away from home. It was a long wait but one that is extremely worth it. I am truly grateful for all the help and support that Alice had provided me along the way. It couldn’t have been made any easier.
