Bridging Visa for Skill Assessment: Proven Strategies & Tips

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Table of Contents

    Corazon Jasa

    Written: January 8, 2024

    Updated: October 17, 2024

    21 min read

    Bridging Visa for Skill Assessment

    Key Takeaways

    • To work in Australia, you need a skill assessment to show your skills match their standards.
    • There are different types of visas like General Skilled Migration, Employer Sponsored, and Temporary Graduate. Each has rules about things like age and English skill.
    • A Bridging Visa lets you stay in Australia while waiting for your visa decision. You must follow its conditions.
    • You must pass health checks and show good character to get most visas.
    • If you want to bring family to Australia, there are special visas for them too.

    Understanding Skill Assessment in Australia

    To work in certain jobs in Australia, you need to show you have the right skills. This is called a skill assessment. It helps make sure that folks who come to Australia can do their jobs well.

    They look at your education and your work history to see if they match Australian standards.

    Your journey starts with this check on your abilities. Experts will look at everything from school degrees to job experience. If they say yes, it means your skills are good for an Australian visa and work.

    Many different groups can do skill assessments depending on your type of job.

    After getting the green light from them, you’re ready for what’s next—understanding the kinds of visas you could apply for!

    Overview of Australian Visas

    When it comes to visas in Australia, there are several options available depending on your situation. Whether you’re looking at General Skilled Migration visa, Employer Sponsored visas, Temporary Skill Shortage visa or Temporary Graduate visa, each has its own requirements and conditions that need to be navigated.

    Understanding the different types of visas is crucial for anyone considering a move to Australia.

    General Skilled Migration visas

    General Skilled Migration visas open doors for you to live and work in Australia. They are based on your skills. If you have good skills that Australia needs, you might get an invite to apply.

    There are different kinds of these visas. Some let you stay in Australia as a permanent resident right away.

    One kind is the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189). You don’t need a sponsor for this one. But, your job should be on a special list and you must pass with enough points in their system.

    Another type is the Subclass 190 – the Skilled Nominated visa. For this one, an Australian place says they want you to come work there because they like your skills.

    With both types, remember—you’ll need things like an age limit, English skills, health checks, and a good character record to qualify. It’s important to get everything ready before applying—like skill assessments from places like VETASSESS or Trades Recognition Australia—to show that your talents match what Australia wants.

    Employer Sponsored visas

    Employer Sponsored visas open doors for skilled workers to make Australia their new home while contributing to the economy. Picture yourself working in a country known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities—this is what these visas offer.

    The Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa lets Australian employers nominate you for permanent residency if you have the right skills they need.

    Living in Australia doesn’t have to be put on pause just because your paperwork is still underway. You can stay on a Bridging visa which means life goes on as usual while waiting for your visa application result.

    Plus, regional businesses get to fill job gaps by sponsoring someone like you—someone eager and ready to bring their expertise where it’s most needed.

    Temporary Skill Shortage visa

    The Temporary Skill Shortage visa is your key to Australia if you have the right skills. It’s made for skilled workers and helps fill jobs where there aren’t enough Aussies to do the work.

    You’ll need an employer in Australia who wants to sponsor you.

    Your job must fit one of the approved skill lists, and there are rules about how long you’ve worked and what kind of health insurance you need. This visa took over from the old subclass 457 visa in March 2018, making it a fresh path for many seeking to live their Australian dream.

    It comes in short-term and long-term streams, so check which one matches your situation best!

    Temporary Graduate visa

    You’ve finished your studies in Australia, and you’re ready for the next big step. A Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is just what you need! This visa lets you live, study, and work here after graduation.

    You can choose from two streams: Graduate Work stream or Post-Study Work stream. Each one has its own rules and time frames.

    Go for the Post-Study Work stream if your qualification fits – it could get you up to four years in Australia! While working here, whether full-time or part-time, you’ll gain valuable experience that can help shape your future career.

    Just keep an eye on the latest updates to make sure you’re always in the know about this visa’s requirements.

    Navigating the Bridging Visa Process

    Navigating the Bridging Visa process can seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth journey. From understanding the duration and conditions of the Bridging Visa to contacting the Assessing Authority and receiving your assessment, each step plays a crucial role in your skill assessment journey.

    Bridging Visa Duration and Conditions

    A Bridging Visa A (BVA) lets you stay in Australia after your old visa expires and while your new visa is being looked at. You can live, work, and study with this visa until they make a decision on your application.

    It’s important to understand the rules of your BVA so that you follow them.

    If you have a Bridging Visa C (BVC), it means you were without a valid visa for a time but now have applied for one. With a BVC, there are more limits, especially on working. Make sure to check these rules carefully so that everything goes smoothly with your stay in Australia.

    Contacting the Assessing Authority

    Getting your skills checked is a key step in making your way to Australia. You’ll need to reach out to the right assessing authority for this. These folks make sure your skills and experience match what’s needed in Australia.

    It may seem like a big task, but it’s one you can handle!

    You can find who to talk to by looking at the list from Immigration and citizenship. Each job has its own group that checks if you’re good to go. So grab those details and get in touch! They will give you all the info on how your qualifications stack up down under.

    This is how you show immigration that you’ve got what it takes!

    Receiving your Assessment

    Once your application for skill assessment is submitted, the assessing authority will review your qualifications and work experience. The authority may compare your qualifications to Australian standards and determine if they meet the requirements for working in a specific occupation in Australia.

    Upon completing this evaluation, you’ll receive an assessment outcome that indicates whether or not your skills are deemed suitable for migration under the relevant visa program. It’s important to note that different visas may have varying skill assessment criteria, so ensure you carefully review the specific requirements applicable to your visa pathway.

    After obtaining a positive skills assessment, you can then proceed with applying for the appropriate Australian visa based on your particular circumstances. It’s essential to keep in mind that each type of visa has its own set of eligibility criteria and conditions, so thorough research and understanding of these factors are crucial before making any further arrangements.

    Eligibility Criteria for Bridging Visa

    To be eligible for a Bridging Visa in Australia, you must meet the skill assessment requirements, adhere to age limitations, demonstrate English language proficiency, and meet health and character requirements.

    It’s important to ensure that you fulfill these criteria before navigating the visa application process.

    Skills Assessment Requirements

    Before applying for a skilled visa, you must have your skills assessed by a relevant assessing authority in Australia. This assessment ensures that your qualifications and work experience meet the Australian standards for your chosen occupation.

    It’s important to note that skilled employment assessment is also an option for your visa application, allowing you to claim points based on the length of your work experience.

    Always remember that each assessing authority has specific requirements and processes for skill assessments, so make sure to review their guidelines carefully before submitting any documents.

    Age Limitations

    To be eligible for certain visas in Australia, age limitations play a crucial role. For instance, applicants for the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa need to be under 45 years old when applying.

    Similarly, those seeking the Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 should also be under 50 years of age at the time of application. Furthermore, individuals aspiring for the 186 visa must ensure that the primary applicant is under 45 years old during the visa application process.

    Keep these age restrictions in mind while planning your Australian visa application to ensure compliance with eligibility criteria and a smooth processing experience.

    English Language Proficiency

    When it comes to applying for visas in Australia, English language proficiency is a crucial factor. Meeting the competent English language ability is mandatory for certain visa streams like the 186 and ENS visas.

    It’s imperative to understand that proof of English language proficiency may be required for various Australian visa applications, as specified by the immigration authority. Whether you’re considering skilled migration or employer-sponsored visas, ensuring your English language abilities meet the necessary standards can significantly impact your visa application process and outcomes.

    Embarking on this journey to Australia requires a clear understanding of how your English language skills align with the visa requirements – meeting these standards will not only enhance your eligibility but also streamline your pathway towards residing and working in Australia.

    Health and Character Requirements

    To move forward with your bridging visa application for skill assessment in Australia, it’s essential to meet the health and character requirements. Temporary visa applicants may need a health examination to ensure they meet the specified criteria.

    Additionally, meeting the character requirements set by Australian immigration authorities is crucial for eligibility. These factors play a significant role in determining your ability to secure a bridging visa and ultimately pursue your career goals in Australia.

    Moving on from this critical aspect of the process, let’s delve into understanding the guidelines for eligibility criteria for bridging visas..

    The Role of Medical Practitioners and Legal Professionals

    Medical practitioners, such as doctors and specialists, are essential for the skill assessment process in Australia. They provide necessary documentation and evidence of skills to support visa applications.

    – Medical Board of Australia’s skill assessment pathways outline the requirements for healthcare professionals looking to migrate to Australia. This includes verifying qualifications, experience, and language proficiency.

    Legal professionals play a crucial role in assisting individuals with understanding the legal aspects related to skills assessment, registration processes, and visa applications.

    They offer guidance on navigating complex legal procedures effectively.

    Barristers and solicitors specialising in immigration law provide valuable expertise in interpreting regulations and ensuring compliance with Australian laws throughout the application process.

    That’s all!

    Preparing for Your Journey to Australia

    Prepare for your journey by ensuring all necessary pre-departure arrangements are in place, such as obtaining a valid passport and any required visas. Familiarise yourself with the Australian customs and immigration procedures to make your arrival as smooth as possible.

    Pre-departure Preparations

    Before you head to Australia, it’s essential to ensure you have all the necessary pre-departure arrangements in place. Firstly, check your visa and departure dates with the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, especially if you’re on a sponsored visa.

    Gather all important documents such as your birth certificates, marriage certificate (if applicable), travel documents like ePassport or national identity card, and any required health or character certificates.

    Additionally, look into Australian values statement requirements and consider obtaining health insurance for your stay in Australia.

    Maintain awareness of the latest travel regulations at the border while also preparing for life in Australia by familiarising yourself with local customs and practical matters such as transportation options.

    At the Border

    When arriving in Australia, make sure to have all your identity documents ready for immigration clearance. Ensure you meet the health requirements and have appropriate visa entitlement verification online (VEVO) for seamless entry.

    Remember that a Bridging Visa B (BVB) allows temporary travel outside Australia during its specified period. It’s also important to be mindful of any necessary police certificates and immigration assistance if required.

    Upon arrival, use the ePassport gates for convenient immigration processing, and familiarise yourself with Australian government payments and benefits you may be entitled to as a temporary resident while awaiting your visa application outcome.

    Living in Australia

    Living in Australia offers a diverse and vibrant experience. As a permanent resident, you’ll have the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in this beautiful country. With access to world-class healthcare and educational facilities, you can enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and stunning natural landscapes that Australia is renowned for.

    Additionally, as a skilled worker on a Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated visa or Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) Points-tested stream, you can truly embrace the welcoming Australian community while contributing your expertise to the workforce.

    As an eligible candidate for permanent residency in Australia under these skilled visa categories,

    you become part of a multicultural society where individuals are encouraged to thrive both professionally

    and personally. Embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm knowing that it’s not just about building.

    Understanding Your Obligations on a Bridging Visa

    When on a Bridging Visa, it’s important to understand your obligations such as the conditions for travelling and working in Australia. To learn more about these obligations and how they may affect your stay, continue reading the full blog.

    Travelling on Your Visa

    When you are on a Bridging Visa, it’s important to know the rules for travel. If you have a Bridging Visa A (BVA), you can leave and return to Australia as long as your substantive visa allows re-entry.

    However, if your substantive visa has expired, leaving Australia might cancel your BVA. It’s crucial to check these conditions before making any travel plans.

    In addition, if you’re on a Bridging Visa B (BVB), it allows multiple entries into and exits from Australia during a specified period. Remember that each time you arrive in Australia with a BVB, it’s essential to follow the conditions attached to it.

    Working Under Your Visa

    After you’ve understood the travel conditions on your bridging visa, it’s crucial to grasp what working under your visa entails. With a bridging visa, you are often allowed to work in Australia while waiting for a decision on your substantive visa application.

    However, each type of bridging visa comes with different work rights and restrictions – understanding these is important to ensure compliance with Australian immigration laws. For instance, some bridging visas may grant full work rights while others may have limitations.

    Your eligibility for working under the bridging visa will depend on various factors such as the type of substantive visa you’ve applied for and any conditions attached to your particular bridging visa subclass.

    Bringing Family to Australia

    You can bring family to Australia through family sponsored visa options if they are eligible. Parents can also visit their family members in Australia using the temporary and permanent parent visas, giving them longer validity during their stay.

    These options provide opportunities for families to be together and for relatives to connect with loved ones living in Australia.

    Bringing family to Australia strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. By exploring these different family-sponsored visa options, you pave the way for meaningful reunions and cherished moments with your loved ones Down Under.

    Insights into Skilled Nominated Visa

    The Skilled Nominated Visa offers a pathway for skilled workers who are nominated by an Australian state or territory government to live and work permanently in Australia. This visa requires applicants to meet specific criteria, including having a nominated occupation on the relevant skilled occupations list, meeting the points test, and receiving a nomination from an Australian state or territory government.

    Understanding this visa can provide valuable insights into your options for obtaining permanent residency in Australia.

    Nomination Process

    If you meet the requirements for skilled work and have been nominated by an Australian state or territory, the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190) might be a suitable option for permanent residency in Australia.

    This visa allows highly skilled workers to live and work permanently in Australia. Similarly, the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa provides a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers who are nominated by their employers, offering another avenue towards settling in Australia.

    It’s crucial to understand that these nomination processes can significantly impact your eligibility and application for Australian visas. By considering these options and aligning them with your skills and career goals, you can pave the way for potential long-term residence Down Under.

    Eligibility Criteria

    To be eligible for a bridging visa, you need to meet certain criteria. These include having a valid skills assessment for the nominated occupation if you are applying under an employer-sponsored or skilled migration category.

    Additionally, understanding the requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs is important in terms of age limitations, English language proficiency, health, and character requirements.

    Meeting these eligibility criteria is crucial for anyone seeking to navigate through the process of obtaining a bridging visa.

    Understanding these eligibility criteria will help you in preparing your journey to Australia with confidence and clarity about your legal status upon entry into the country.

    Processing Time

    After ensuring that you meet all the eligibility criteria, the next crucial step is understanding the processing time for your visa application. The Australian Department of Home Affairs processes skilled visa applications in the order they are received.

    It’s essential to submit a complete and accurate application as early as possible, as processing times can vary based on factors such as the type of visa, the completeness of your application, and peak processing periods.

    Sponsorship approval for Subclass 482 Visa is generally valid for up to five years once granted. Keep in mind that VETASSESS Assessment authenticates genuine skilled professionals for visa applications, so be proactive in gathering all necessary documentation and meeting requirements to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

    Temporary Skill Shortage Visa

    The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa is designed to address labor shortages by allowing employers to sponsor skilled workers from overseas. To qualify for this visa, you must meet the skills and experience requirements outlined by the Australian government and have health insurance coverage while living in Australia.

    Short-term and Long-term Streams

    The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) has both short-term and medium-term streams. With the short-term stream visa, you can work in Australia for up to 2 years. On the other hand, the medium-term stream visa allows skilled workers to work in Australia for up to 4 years.

    This provides flexibility based on your specific employment needs and career goals.

    Both temporary streams offer different durations of stay, catering to various job requirements and personal circumstances. Understanding these options will help you make informed decisions when planning your future work opportunities in Australia – whether it’s a shorter assignment or a longer tenure.

    Skills and Experience Requirements

    To qualify for the Temporary Skill Shortage visa, you should have a minimum of 2 years’ work experience in your nominated occupation or a related field. Your employment should generally be full-time to meet the requirements.

    Additionally, the skills assessment process for this visa involves a thorough evaluation of your qualifications, work experience, and skills to ensure they align with the standards set for working in your relevant occupation.

    By meeting these qualifications, you can enhance your chances of successfully navigating the process of obtaining a Temporary Skill Shortage visa in Australia.

    Health Insurance Requirements

    When it comes to temporary skill shortage visas, it’s important to note that evidence of adequate health insurance is a requirement for visa holders. This means that working visa applicants may need to hold Overseas Visitors Health Cover.

    In fact, some Australian visas mandate the provision of proof of sufficient arrangements for health insurance. Therefore, when planning your journey to Australia and considering visa applications, it’s essential to factor in the necessity of having appropriate health insurance as per the visa requirements.

    The Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) specifically stipulates the need for evidence of adequate health insurance. Understanding this requirement can help you prepare thoroughly for your visa application process and ensure compliance with Australian immigration regulations.

    Conclusion

    You’ve learned the essential steps for navigating the process of bridging visa for skill assessment in Australia. Implementing these practical strategies will ensure a smooth and efficient journey through the Australian visa system.

    How can you apply what you’ve learned to your own situation? Take action on these tips so that you can make significant progress toward your goal of obtaining an Australian visa.

    Highlighting the importance of understanding these procedures is crucial, as it lays the foundation for success in this complex process. Consider exploring further resources or seeking professional guidance to enhance your knowledge and approach.

    Keep pressing forward with determination and confidence, knowing that each step brings you closer to fulfilling your aspirations!

    For a comprehensive understanding of the various durations and conditions associated with bridging visas, please visit our detailed guide here.

    CJMigration

    CJMigration is a well-respected Sydney migration agency with over 30 years of experience in the industry. We can help guide you through the process and achieve your immigration goals.

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