Australian Visa

Australia is renowned as one of the most difficult countries to obtain entry, they have a very strict system in place which regulates who can apply for a visa. Many people wish to visit this country and due to the large amount of people wanting to become resident in the country the Government have opted to have a strict visa system in place. The visa system operates in a similar way to those used in other countries, for example there are different types of visa such as tourist or student visas.

Whereas in other countries students may simply be provided with a student visa when they prove they will enter education in Australia this is not the case. The department responsible for visas will assess each application on its own merits and will consider different assessment levels. Assessment levels have been introduced into the visa system in order to deliver a fast and efficient service. The student visa application in Australia has five different levels, this will align the applicant requirements against their immigrations risk. Australia has chosen to assess immigration risk in order to protect the country and regulate those entering. Assessment level one is regarded as the lowest immigration risk and assessment level five is considered the highest level risk.

In order to obtain a student visa for Australia the applicant will be required to prove their background history including the previous education which they have completed. Also, the applicant must provide documentation which proves which educational institution they will become a student at and they must also state what course they will complete. The educational institution will be contacted in order to prove that the student is genuine. Before a visa is granted an interview may be held in order to establish certain facts, such as why they have chosen to enter education in Australia.

Similar to other countries tourists must obtain a visa if they wish to holiday in the country, there are several different visas which can be obtained.

The ETA Visitor visa is an electronically stored visa which is provided to those tourists who wish to undertake short term visits to Australia of up to three months. These visas will be granted to passport holders from certain countries outside of Australia. There is also an eVisitors visa which is very similar but can be applied for by all visa applicants.

A standard tourist visa is also available which comprises of a traditional visa. This will provide short term entry to the country for a specified amount of time. Visa applicants who have family within Australia may be able to obtain a sponsored visa.