457 to PR, I'm over 45 is there any chance?
 

Hi all,

I wonder if anyone could advise.
I'm moving hopefully in the next few months to Brisbane on an inter company transfer via a 457 visa (4 years)
I've already been over to Oz for an interview and love the place.

My job is very specialised (a mixture of electronics & electrical) and I was told that there might only be about 40 other engineers in Oz that do the same job as me.
That’s the reason that the company I work for are recruiting from the UK as there is a big shortage of engineers in Australia.
They have given me a 3 year contract which I am more than happy to agree to.

My question is that I will be 48 in July and I wondered whether because of my specialised trade I could apply for permanent residency when I get to Oz?

Will my age be against me? Or is there ways around the 45 age limit?

Any information or suggestions would be most welcome.

Thanks.

Re: 457 to PR, I'm over 45 is there any chance?
 

My boss left the UK last week on an ENS (Employer nominated Sponsorship) visa (I think thats a 457 - but check on that) he's 52. Not sure about the PR thing though, perhaps someone else can help with that question?
All the best.
Dave

Re: 457 to PR, I'm over 45 is there any chance?
 

Hi Guys,

There are two permanent employer sponsored visas, the ENS and the RSMS. The RSMS is for "regional" employers, ie out of the four major population centres, and has relaxed rules about age. ENS on the other hand is more restrictive about age, over 45 and you have to be "exceptional" - in certain circumstances you can be "exceptional" even up to the age of 59 but in most cases age 45 is a barrier. The MODL can help you be "exceptional", as can definitive evidence of the labour market. If you'd like to see the PAMS on this question you can email me at george[at]austimmigration.com.au.

Cheers,

George Lombard

www.austimmigration.com.au