Temporary Residence | Family Stream | Business Visas | General Skilled Migration Visa | Student Visa Do I have to have studied in Australia to apply for this category? No, but you cannot apply onshore unless you have studied in Australia. What level of English ability do I require? This generally depends on the visa that you are going to apply for, but the English Language requirements will become stricter in September 2007, and the threshold requirement will be raised to an IELTS score of 6, unless you are applying with a tradesperson (IELTS 5) or through state sponsorship (5.5). Do I have to sit for an IELTS test if I come from an English speaking country? Currently no, but in the changes to be implimented on September 1 2007, it is proposed that all applicants who are claiming 25 points for the highest English leve (7.0) will have to sit for an IELTS test even if they come from an English speaking country. If I have worked in Australia, will I be able to get extra points because of this? Yes, under the proposed changes to the General Skilled Migration program you may be able to gain bonus points if you have been working for at least twelve months in your nominated occupation or a closely related occupation. Will I still be able to apply for a Graduate Skilled Visa (497) visa under the new regulations? This visa will be replaced by the 485 visa and will be available for up to 18 months. Applicants will need to show that they meet the 2 year study requirement and that they have applied for a skills assessment, and hold an IELTS 6 test result or IELTS 5 in the case of a trade occupation. Please note that the proposed changes, to come into effect on September 1 2007 are far reaching and complex. Additionally these changes have not yet been finalised. We suggest that you seek professional assistance if you plan to apply after this date. You can be assured that as professionals in our field we will be thoroughly conversant with these changes and how they affect you, if you plan to consult us.