AlisonTurner

Hi,

I'm not sure I'm in the right area - but need to start somewhere!
I am already in Australia on a company sponsored 457 visa. This allows me to stay in Australia for 4 years, but I want to apply for Permanent Residency. I have been in Australia for nearly 3 years. During this time I have changed companies so had to reapply for the 457. I will have completed 12 months for my current company at the end of this year.
I have spoken to a migration agent who estimated the cost to be $6,500 for myself and my de facto partner (who is on my visa). However, lots of people have told me I can do it cheaper myself. The problem is that I don't know where to start. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have tried the official Australian government website but have not been able to find anything.

Thanks for any help you can give!
Alison

Safin

first place to look is www.immi.gov.au for details of the various visas.

Decide which is suitable for you after reading all of those applicable - main decision is can you get the points for an independant visa, do you need state or family sponsorship, or have you an employer willing to sponsor you?