Australian Visas

If you're moving to Australia, should you apply for a visa or permanent citizenship? A temporary or permanent visa will give you license to earn a living wage in Australia and its territories. Yet if you have your sights set on permanent relocation, you might want to initiate the citizenship application process. That being said, immigration and visa restrictions alone may be prohibitive.

One of the fastest ways through the Australian visa application maze is via something known as a partner visa. In order to qualify for a partner visa, you must be engaged or married to a New Zealander or an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Australia recognizes same-sex partnerships. However, as progressive as Australia's immigration laws are, same-sex couples still face certain legal barriers on the continent.

Navigating the Australian Visa Application Process

Partner visas come via a two-stage process. In the first stage, you get granted a temporary visa, which enables you to live and work in Australia with your partner. After a two-year period expires, you may apply for a permanent partner visa. Of course, some married couples attempt to bypass the visa system altogether by preemptively applying for permanent Australian citizenship.

Student visas, granted under the Australian overseas student program (OSP), allow university scholars to live and study in the country. However, students who qualify under the OSP must register for classes full time. Furthermore, during the summer or on permanent school breaks, students either must return to their countries of origin or apply for temporary visas.