Immigrate To Australia: A Guide For Filipinos

how to apply for australian immigration from philippines

Filipinos can apply for Australian immigration through various visa subclasses, including student visas, work visas, tourist visas, and family visas. The application process typically involves creating an ImmiAccount, uploading the necessary documents, and paying the associated fees. For student visas, applicants may need to provide proof of enrolment, health insurance, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. Work visas often require a skills assessment, while tourist visas may need proof of return to the Philippines and financial stability. Family visas include streams for partners, parents, carers, and children. It is recommended to consult a professional migration agent to choose the most suitable visa option and ensure all requirements are met.

Characteristics Values
Visa Type Student Visa, Tourist Visa, Work Visa, Family Visa, Skilled Visa, Training Visa
Application Process Online via the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) portal, on the Department of Home Affairs website
Requirements Health Insurance, Health Examinations, Biometrics, Proof of Finances, Proof of Return to the Philippines, Passport, Visa Application Fee, Documents (as per requirement)
Additional Information Visa applications can be made through VFS Global, or via an agency like Auspac Visa

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Student Visa

To apply for a student visa to Australia from the Philippines, you must complete the entire process online via the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) portal on the Department of Home Affairs website. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Create an ImmiAccount

You will need to create and sign in to your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Step 2: Upload Documents

Upload all the necessary documents stipulated by the visa application requirements. These include:

  • A valid passport.
  • Proof of criminal records, if any.
  • Results of an English proficiency test.
  • Four passport-sized photos.
  • Proof of health cover (OSHC) – this is one of the key requirements of the student visa.
  • Proof of sufficient funds – the Australian Education Board will assess your financial situation right after you apply for the visa and continue to monitor your finances until your course completion.
  • A letter of offer or enrolment certificate from a recognised Australian university or institution.
  • A Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement – this confirms your intention of studying or working in Australia for a certain period.
  • Health and character certificates.

Some documents may need to be notarized by a notary public or solicitor, and all documents should be in English.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Application Fee

The visa application fee for the principal applicant is AUD 710 (PHP 26,707). Additional costs may include health checks, biometrics, and police certificates.

Step 4: Provide Biometrics

Visa applicants in the Philippines must complete biometric collection (face photograph and fingerprint scan) for each application lodged, irrespective of their nationality, unless they are excluded or exempt from the biometric program. When you lodge your application online, you will be sent a request to provide your biometrics via email. Make an appointment to attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) in person to provide your biometrics.

Step 5: Health Examinations

Applicants must undertake health examinations at clinics approved by Australian Immigration.

Step 6: Submit Application

Submit your application no later than six weeks before the start of your course/programme, and no earlier than 12 weeks.

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Tourist Visa

If you're a Filipino citizen planning a trip to Australia, you'll need to apply for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600). This visa allows Filipino citizens to enter Australia for tourism or business purposes. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process of applying for an Australian tourist visa:

Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa

Use the Australian Government's Visa Finder to determine the type of visa you need. Input the type of visa (tourist), your country of passport (Philippines), and your age.

Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount

Sign up and create an ImmiAccount, an online service facilitated by the Australian Government. This is the only site where you can access the online requirements and application process.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Complete the visa application form. You may be required to provide additional documents, such as proof of your return to the Philippines, which indicates that you do not intend to settle in Australia illegally. If you are travelling with children, they will need their own visas and relevant documents, including birth certificates, parental IDs, and consent forms, if applicable.

Step 4: Upload Documents and Submit

Upload all the required documents and submit your application. You may then be required to attend a phone interview or provide further documents.

Step 5: Biometric Information and Health Exam

After submitting your application, attend an appointment at the Australian Visa Application Centre to provide your biometric information (face photograph and fingerprint scan) and undergo a health exam.

Step 6: Processing

The processing time for Filipino citizens is typically 30 days with iVisa, and the Australian government takes an average of 28 days to process 90% of applications. Once your application is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with your application ID and reference number to track your progress.

Step 7: Visa Grant Notice

If your visa is approved, you will receive a Visa Grant Notice. Print this notice and present it upon entering and exiting Australia.

It is important to note that visa applicants in the Philippines must complete biometric collection for each application, unless exempt. Applicants are also encouraged to provide an Australian postal address with their application.

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Work Visa

Applying for an Australian work visa from the Philippines is a straightforward process. The Australian government offers multiple visa subclasses to choose from, and the Department of Home Affairs encourages applicants to "check twice, submit once".

One of the most standard options to migrate to Australia from the Philippines is by applying for a work visa. The three SkillSelect visa pathways offer skilled Filipino professionals the opportunity to migrate, work, and live in Australia permanently. The visa is based on their relevant work experience and educational qualifications in in-demand occupations in Australia. These occupations must be listed in the Medium & Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL), or Regional Occupation List (ROL). Applicants may also need a favourable letter from a Relevant Assessing Authority and could be sponsored by a state or territory government or a relative living in a designated area of Australia.

Another option is the General Skilled Migration Program (GSMP), which has increased the demand for a skilled labour force in Australia and provided opportunities for Filipino skilled professionals.

The visa application process involves gathering the necessary finances, choosing the best visa pathway and subclass, and filling out the application form. Applicants may also need to submit scanned documents, get approvals from sponsors or family members, and wait for a response. During this time, biometrics and medical examinations may be requested.

Biometric collection is required for each application, and applicants will be sent a request to provide personal identifiers (face photograph and fingerprint scan) via email. They can then make an appointment at an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) in person to provide their biometrics. From 1 July 2023, only Australian dollars will be accepted for Visa Application Charges.

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Visa Subclasses

When it comes to visa subclasses, there are several options for those seeking Australian immigration from the Philippines. Here are some of the key subclasses to consider:

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)

This visa is intended for tourists wishing to visit Australia. It allows individuals to enter Australia for tourism purposes and explore the country. To apply for this visa, you must create an ImmiAccount, which is essential for accessing the online requirements and application process. The application will require personal information, travel history, financial capacity, purpose of visit, and health details. It is important to carefully review your application and ensure all necessary documents are provided, as this can impact the processing time.

Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

The Skilled Independent Visa is a permanent visa option for those seeking to live and work in Australia with their families. This subclass does not require sponsorship or nomination from an Australian state or territory government, or a relative residing in Australia. However, applicants must be invited to apply and meet the age requirement of 45 years or below. This visa pathway is ideal for skilled migrants who want to contribute their talents and expertise to the Australian economy.

Training Visa (Subclass 407)

The Training Visa is a sponsored visa option for individuals participating in work-related or workplace-based occupational training and professional programs. It provides an opportunity for those seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in a specific field. Applicants should note that there may be additional requirements, such as health examinations and biometrics collection, which can incur extra costs.

Workstream Visas

Workstream visas are specifically designed for skilled workers with qualifications and experience valued in Australia. These visas often involve sponsorship or nomination from an Australian employer, relative, or state/territory government. This pathway offers permanent residency and the opportunity to live and work in Australia with family. It is a popular choice for those seeking long-term career prospects and a better life in the country.

It is important to note that the visa application process can vary, and individuals should refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information. Additionally, seeking guidance from organisations like IDP Philippines or Visas Avenue can enhance the understanding of requirements and improve the chances of a successful application.

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Visa Application Process

The visa application process for Australian immigration from the Philippines depends on the type of visa being applied for. Here is a detailed and direct guide on how to apply for Australian immigration from the Philippines, focusing on the visa application process:

Student Visa:

To apply for an Australian student visa from the Philippines, you need to follow these steps:

  • Determine the type of student visa you need. The most common types are the Student Visa (Subclass 500) for full-time students, the Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) for those accompanying a Subclass 500 visa holder, and the Training Visa (Subclass 407) for workplace-based training.
  • Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
  • Upload all the necessary documents, such as proof of enrolment, health insurance, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement.
  • Pay the visa application fee and any additional costs, such as health checks and biometrics.
  • Ensure you submit your application within the recommended timeframe—no later than six weeks before the start of your course and no earlier than 12 weeks.

Tourist Visa:

For a tourist visa, the process is as follows:

  • Determine the type of tourist visa you need. The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is a common option.
  • Create an ImmiAccount.
  • Complete the online application form, providing specific details about your trip and your reasons for visiting.
  • Provide proof of your intention to return to the Philippines, such as evidence of employment or financial commitments.
  • Submit any additional documents, such as proof of financial support or a letter of invitation if your trip is sponsored.
  • Print the Visa Grant Notice and present it upon entering and exiting Australia.

Work Visa:

For a work visa, the steps are as follows:

  • Assess your skills and eligibility for the General Skilled Migration Program (GSMP) or other visa subclasses.
  • Consult a professional migration agent or lawyer to choose the most suitable visa option.
  • Prepare your finances to cover the visa application costs and any associated fees.
  • Complete the application form and submit it online or through a service like VFS Global.
  • Provide any additional documents as required, such as proof of job offers or contracts from Australian employers.

It is important to carefully review the requirements and eligibility criteria for each visa type before initiating the application process. Additionally, staying updated with the Australian government's policies and guidelines regarding immigration is essential.

Frequently asked questions

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