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Visa requirements and permanent residency options for South Africans
Are you a South African looking to gain permanent residency in Australia? If so, you may be considering the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482 Visa) or the General Skilled Migration Program. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, but which one is the better choice for South Africans? In this article, we will compare the two pathways and discuss the best way for South Africans to gain permanent residency in Australia.
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482 Visa)
The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa or the “TSS Visa" is designed for skilled workers who are sponsored by Australian employers. It allows a stay of up to four years but is not a direct pathway to permanent residence. To apply under the employer nomination stream, it is ideal to be between 40 and 41 as you need to work for three years and apply for the 186 visa before turning 45.
The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa has some drawbacks that you should consider:
1. Temporary nature:
The TSS Visa is a temporary visa that allows you to work in Australia for up to four years. Unlike permanent residency visas, the TSS Visa does not provide long-term security or a direct pathway to Australian citizenship.
2. Employer sponsorship:
To be eligible for the TSS Visa, you need to be sponsored by an Australian employer. This means that your employment opportunities may be limited to the specific employer who sponsored you. If you lose your job or your sponsor withdraws their sponsorship, you may have to leave Australia.
3. Limited occupation options:
The TSS Visa is tailored to specific occupations that are in demand in Australia. If your occupation is not on the eligible occupation list, you may not be able to apply for the TSS Visa. This can restrict your options if you want to work in a different field.
4. No access to some government benefits:
While the TSS Visa provides access to certain healthcare and social security benefits, there may be limitations on the benefits you can receive compared to permanent residents or Australian citizens. This includes access to certain government-funded services and programs.
It’s important to take into account these drawbacks when making a decision whether the TSS Visa is the right option for you. You may want to explore other visa programs, such as the General Skilled Migration Program, which offers a more direct route to permanent residency in Australia.
General Skilled Migration Program
On the other hand, the General Skilled Migration Program is tailored for individuals with in-demand skills in Australia. The visa grants permanent residency, allowing the applicant to reside and work in Australia indefinitely and potentially obtain citizenship in the future. It requires an Expression of Interest (EOI) and skill assessment and offers a more direct route to permanent residency. For the Skilled Visa, it is important to apply before the age of 45 to ensure eligibility. However, if you are considering applying under the 491 Visa category, it is essential to note that age does not serve as a limiting factor or a cutoff point once the application has been submitted. This means that individuals who fall outside the typical age range for other visa categories can still explore the opportunity to apply for this visa subclass. By removing the age constraint, the 491 Visa category offers a more inclusive pathway for prospective applicants who may have previously felt restricted by their age in their pursuit of migration to Australia. This visa lasts five years and requires living and working in a regional area for three years.
Comparison and Analysis
If your ultimate goal is to secure permanent residence in Australia, the General Skilled Migration Program may be your best option due to the various advantages it offers. This program not only provides individuals with more independence, allowing them to have greater control over their future, but it also presents a wider range of occupation options, increasing the chances of finding a suitable job in your desired field. Moreover, one of the most enticing aspects of this program is the assurance of obtaining permanent residency status right from the beginning, without having to go through the hassle of temporary visas or uncertain immigration pathways.
Conclusion
After considering the advantages and disadvantages of the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa and the General Skilled Migration Program, it is clear that the best way for South Africans to gain permanent residency in Australia is through the General Skilled Migration Program. While the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa may offer certain advantages in specific situations, the General Skilled Migration Program provides a more stable and long-term pathway to permanent residency. It is important for South Africans to carefully consider their individual circumstances and consult with immigration professionals to make an informed decision.
Planning ahead is essential, particularly when considering age restrictions. For personalised assistance, get in touch with Andrew at +27 11 453 1229 or email him at andrew@migrate2oz.co.za.
To find out if you qualify, complete our Free Skilled Visa Assessment today!
FAQ
What are the benefits of permanent residency in Australia?
Permanent residency in Australia offers several benefits, including:
1. Work and live indefinitely: As a permanent resident, you have the right to live and work in Australia indefinitely. You can pursue any employment or business opportunities without restrictions.
2. Access to government benefits: Permanent residents are eligible for various government benefits and services, such as healthcare through Medicare, social security benefits, and education subsidies.
3. Pathway to Australian citizenship: Permanent residency is a stepping stone towards Australian citizenship. After meeting the residency requirements, you can apply for Australian citizenship and enjoy the full rights and privileges of being a citizen.
4. Sponsor family members: Permanent residents can sponsor their eligible family members for permanent residency in Australia. This includes spouses, dependent children, and parents.
5. Study and education benefits: Permanent residents have access to the Australian education system and can enjoy reduced tuition fees compared to international students. They can also apply for government-funded student loans and scholarships.
6. Travel flexibility: Permanent residents can travel in and out of Australia freely. They can also apply for a Resident Return Visa to maintain their permanent residency status if they plan to travel for an extended period.
7. Social integration: Permanent residents can fully integrate into Australian society, participate in community activities, and enjoy the cultural diversity and lifestyle that Australia offers.
It’s important to note that the benefits of permanent residency may vary depending on individual circumstances and visa conditions. It’s recommended to seek professional advice and refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Is a PR needed to work in Australia?
No, a permanent residency (PR) is not needed to work in Australia. There are various types of visas that allow individuals to work in Australia without having PR status. One such visa is the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482 visa), also known as the TSS visa. This visa allows employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to fill specific positions in Australia for up to four years. Another option is the Working Holiday visa, which allows individuals aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for certain countries) to work and travel in Australia for up to one year. It’s important to note that each visa has its own requirements and limitations, so it’s crucial to check the specific visa requirements before planning to work in Australia.
How long should someone stay in Australia to get PR?
To obtain permanent residency (PR) in Australia, the length of time you need to stay in the country can vary depending on the specific visa program you apply through. For example, under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, you typically need to have lived and worked in Australia for at least two years on a temporary visa before you can apply for PR.
However, it’s important to note that the time requirement can differ based on various factors, such as changes in government policies and occupation demand. Therefore, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest requirements and guidelines to ensure you meet the necessary criteria.
At Migrate 2 Oz, we specialise in Australian visa applications and can provide you with accurate and up-to-date information regarding the specific timeframes for obtaining PR. We can guide you through the process and help maximise your chances of success.
How hard is it to get Australia PR?
Getting permanent residency (PR) in Australia can be a challenging process, but it is definitely achievable if you meet the requirements and follow the necessary steps. The difficulty level can vary depending on factors such as your occupation, skills, qualifications, and the specific visa program you apply through.
Australia offers several pathways to PR, including the General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, employer-sponsored visas, family-sponsored visas, and business and investment visas. Each pathway has its own set of requirements and criteria that you must meet.
For the GSM program, which is often considered the most common pathway for skilled workers, you need to meet the points test requirement. This test evaluates factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education qualifications, and other factors related to your occupation. The higher your score, the better your chances of being invited to apply for PR.
The points requirement can vary based on changes in government policies, occupation demand, and other factors. It’s important to stay updated with the latest requirements and guidelines.
Additionally, you may need to undergo skills assessment by a relevant assessing authority to prove that your skills and qualifications are suitable for your nominated occupation.
Overall, the process of getting Australia PR requires thorough research, careful preparation, and meeting the specific eligibility criteria. It is advisable to consult with immigration professionals who can guide you through the process and help maximise your chances of success.
