Are you planning to move to Australia and pursue permanent residency (PR)? This video shares seven often-unspoken realities that come with seeking PR in Australia, based on personal experience. These are things many people won't tell you, but they are important to consider.
Introduction
Having lived in Australia for several years, I want to share my personal experiences and insights about the PR process. This information could make your journey significantly easier. While this channel focuses on travel, these videos aim to provide a more comprehensive understanding of my life in Australia and the challenges I've faced. I want to share life updates and personal experiences that I haven't shared anywhere else.
Disclaimer
It's important to note that I am not an immigration consultant. This is my personal experience and should not be taken as immigration advice. Always conduct thorough research and consult multiple sources before making any decisions.
Seven Cruel Realities of Australian PR
Here are seven harsh realities to consider when pursuing permanent residency in Australia:
1. Occupation List Instability
The Australian PR process involves nominating an occupation from the skilled occupation list. However, even if your occupation is currently on the list, there's no guarantee it will remain there by the time your application is ready. The government can add or remove occupations without prior notice. For example, my intended occupation was removed from the list shortly after I arrived, and it hasn't returned.
2. Unachievably High Points
The points required to receive an invitation for PR have become incredibly high. It can feel like an impossible goal, with required scores reaching 90, 95, or even 105 points. This makes the process extremely frustrating, even with significant effort.
3. Misleading Study Pathways
Some education consultants sell the idea that studying certain courses (e.g., accounting, engineering, IT) guarantees PR. This is not true. Many courses marketed as pathways to PR either aren't on the skilled occupation list or have unattainable points requirements, leaving you stuck in the application pool.
4. Unreliable Migration Agents
Many migration agents are primarily focused on taking your money, rather than providing genuine guidance. Some may give incorrect advice or try to sell unnecessary services. For reliable guidance, consider consulting a certified immigration lawyer or organizations like the British Council or IDP. Immigration lawyers will charge more, but they will be more accurate than migration agents.
5. Skill Assessment Hurdles
Even after completing your studies, you must undergo a skill assessment. Each assessing authority has its own rules. Some authorities require post-qualification work experience, even if the Department of Home Affairs doesn't. If you can't get your skill assessed, you cannot apply for PR.
6. English Language Testing Costs
Demonstrating English language competency is mandatory, requiring IELTS or PTE testing. These tests are expensive, costing $300-$400 per attempt. The results are only valid for two years, meaning you may have to repeatedly take these tests for each visa application, adding significant financial burden.
7. Reduced Immigration Cap
The Australian government has drastically reduced the immigration cap. This makes it difficult for people to be invited to apply for PR. Despite increased places in the skilled occupation category, the overall annual cap remains restrictive. Onshore applicants do not receive any leverage from paying taxes and spending money towards the Australian economy.
8. The High Cost of PR
Seeking Australian PR is a significantly expensive process. It can cost at least $10,000 AUD for visas, agent fees, insurances, medicals, etc. Think twice before choosing the study route.
Tips for Pursuing Australian PR
If you're determined to pursue PR, here are some tips:
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Consider Regional Areas: Move to regional areas like Adelaide, Perth, the Gold Coast, or Wollongong. Visa 491 offers residency to those living in regional areas. You'll also get extra points for studying in regional areas, in addition to a 3-year post study work visa.
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Explore Working Holiday Visas: Consider a working holiday visa as a way to experience Australia and potentially transition to permanent residency.
Conclusion
While Australia is a great place to live, make informed decisions about pursuing PR. Conduct thorough research, consider the realities discussed, and don't solely rely on immigration agents. Stay tuned for updates on my PR journey.