Answers

Why use a migration agent?

Australian migration can be complicated, confusing and time consuming. A migration agent can help ensure your application is lodged with all the information needed to process it quickly and this will ensure that the processing of your application is not delayed by requests for further information.

How long will migration take?

All depends under which type of visa you are applying for migration. Each application is unique and a time estimate can only be determined once a Granger Australia Consultant has done a personal assessment.

I am already in Australia. Can you give me advice concerning my visa?

Yes! If you are in Australia, we can advise you on any migration issue, including helping you to:

• Extend your current visa
• Apply for a different visa
• Become a Permanent Resident of Australia
• Become an Australian Citizen
• Communicate with the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs
• Deal with the cancellation of your visa
• Appeal against a Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs decision

Can I work in Australia?

If you want to work in Australia, it is important that the visa you are issued allows you to do so. Certain types of visas do not permit you to work in Australia. Some visas restrict the number of hours you can work per week. It is important that you apply for the correct visa type. We can advise you on the best visa to apply for to suit your circumstances.

If you have a student visa or are on a working holiday you are able to work for a set amount of hours in Australia. Most international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the duration of their student visa.

Is it easy to find a job in Australia?

If you are on a student visa, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. It is easier for you to find a job if you are fluent in English but you may be able to overcome the language barrier by looking for simple jobs. The best way is to consult the employment sections of newspapers or visit backpackers travel centres. Do not expect to find a very rewarding job as you can only work part-time. The most popular jobs obtained are as waitresses, kitchen hands, security guards, cleaning and car washers, etc. The average rate is from A$8 to A$16 per hour.

How can I find accommodation?

Granger Australia can arrange accommodation for you - there are a variety of accommodation options. For example, Homestay enables you to live with an Australian family. Shared accommodation is where you live in shared houses or apartments with other students or young Australian working people. Other accommodation options include hostels, student hostels or University campuses.

If you prefer to arrange it on your own, we recommend you to stay in a hotel or hostel and look for accommodation in local newspapers or through the Internet. If you deal through a real estate agency in Australia, you need references and a bond of at least two month's rent.

How can I practise my religion?

Many institutions have prayer rooms where students can worship their own religions, as well as a chaplain to provide spiritual support. Some universities have special facilities for Muslim students.

In Australian cities and towns you will find places of worship for many religions including Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Sikhism, Catholicism, the various Protestant churches, Assembly of God, Seventh Day Adventism, Jehovah’s Witness and Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

How long does it take to obtain a student visa?

It can take from 1 weeks to 6 months, depending upon which country you come from. Countries are classified as Assessment Level 1, 2, 3 or 4. Assessment Level 1 & 2 countries would take less time to process visa applications than Assessment Level 3 & 4 countries.

We will be able to advise you of the time and the availability in obtaining a student visa.

What does ELICOS stand for?

ELICOS is an acronym for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students. It offers a variety programs for international students who intend to study in Australia or wish to improve their English for social or business purposes. Programs range in duration from 5 weeks to 40 weeks.

Where are other students from my country enrolled?

More than 180,000 international students from about 80 countries study in Australia each year. Most Colleges, Universities and schools organise social activities for international students. Granger Australia will also guide you towards Associations and Groups from your Country of Origin.

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