nicandmarc

My husband is an Electrician and we have been told we qualify for the skilled worker visa (not sure of the exact name) by an agent, what we would like to know is how easy it is to do the application ourselves, if we can save £2400 by doing it ourselves this would be great. Has anyone done it themselves? Thanks Nic

verystormy

The first thing to do is lots of reading and research on immi.gov.au and in particular about points - you need 60 and which visa would be best for you. It will probably come down to a 190 or a 189 depending on points.

You need to be careful about points as an over claim can mean a rejection and loss of the fees.

If it is a 190, this is a state sponsored visa and you would need to check the state you want to move to is sponsoring.

Then, you need to look at undertaking the skills assessment.

At the same time, it is a good idea to start revising as most applicants need to do one of the English tests for points such as ILETS. These can be harder than you think.

Then, if a 190, apply for the state sponsorship.

The lodge an expression of interest and wait.

Once you are invited to apply, you apply, pay the fee and wait.

A case officer will contact you and ask you to all undertake medicals and police checks.

Then it is a waiting game.

One last thing you need to be aware of is that electricians once they arrive in Oz need to retrain as although UK qualification's get you the visa, they are not recognised to get a license to work and he will need to undergo both college training and work as a trade assistant for about a year.

nicandmarc

Thanks Verystormy woul you say then that it is worth the agents fees to ensure that it is all done correctly?

Also, do you know how long it takes to obtain the licence as a full oz electrician?

Thanks

old.sparkles

It will likely vary on time depending on state. I would think a good estimate would be around 12 months as you need gap training and experience here in Australia.

spuddyo

They need time to convince you that Ring Mains and Load Diversity are bad, never ending spurs with lots of volt drop is good.

verystormy

I think agents are a very worthwhile thing. A mistake can be VERY expensive.

Getting a license will vary by state. But you are probably looking at some college courses - will be several thousand dollars and then about a year working as a trade assistant. A bit like a glorified apprentice. Be aware some find it very hard to get a role as a trade assistant.