Australia has become one of the most popular migratory destinations for thousands of people from all over the world. The country is known for its easygoing and friendly population and its wide open spaces. This article aims to identify some guidelines that can be of assistance to someone interested on moving to Australia.
1. Visa requirements - All non-citizens of Australia except for New Zealanders need to hold a valid visa to enter the country. Also, ensuring that the visa has been applied for under the right subclass is essential to prevent a rejection of the application.
2. Migration norms - Study the norms laid down by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship of the Government of Australia which control the entry of immigrants into the country. Falling under the category of jobs outlined in the Migration Occupations and Demand List can make migration easier.
3. Transfer money – Banks in Australia permit users to open a bank account before actually moving there. When you are transferring large amounts of money into an Australian bank, it is advisable to request for the best exchange rate possible. Travellers who are in possession of AUD 10,000 or more in cash are expected to declare the amount so held on their arrival to customs.
4. Place of stay - Sometimes buying a house will be easier than renting one out depending on the place of residence. A new comer must make himself knowledgeable about the varying Tenancy Laws applicable to different states of the country.
5. Buying properties - All real estate buyers, including migrants with permanent residence are eligible for the First Home Owner Grant of $7,000 which has been hiked to $14,000 until 30 June, 2009 to fight the impacts of the credit crunch.
6. Transfer of household goods – Before transferring one’s household articles one must ensure that they are thoroughly cleaned, documented and verified, as all items entering Australia are subjected to an examination by the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service.
7. Retrieval of household articles – For claiming your transported goods, all migrants must use Form B534 of the customs, inventory list. Also, a copy of the passport and visa are to be submitted along with the form.
8. Driving - Migrants are expected to apply for an Australian driving license within a maximum of three months’ grace period. An individual holding an International driving Permit must undergo a written test and an eye test for the license.
9. Buying household goods - While goods sold in the Australian malls can be a bit expensive, there are many other bargain stores where a new entrant can get goods and household items at cheaper prices.
10. Travel - Although the public transport system is effective around the cities, the growth of the same is restricted in many areas on account of the vastness and terrain of the country. Buying a car from a second hand dealer can add to significant savings.
Paul writes about UK Freight news and Bristol freight forwarding.
