Recently, the allure of starting a new chapter in Australia, the land down under, has captured the imagination of many Kenyans seeking fresh opportunities abroad.
The appeal lies not only in the change of scenery but also in the potential for a new way of life and improved economic opportunities. This is especially enticing for the younger generation. However, the migration path is not an easy one. It involves navigating a complex system of visa applications, financial preparations, and medical requirements. Success in this endeavour requires careful planning and a deep understanding of the visa process.
The timeline for obtaining an Australian visa depends on the type of application. For example, obtaining a student visa can take up to eight weeks, allowing Kenyan students to pursue education at registered institutions in Australia for the duration of their program. On the other hand, a transit visa, which allows individuals to pass through Australia on their way to another destination, can be obtained within two days. Meanwhile, a temporary resident visa, suitable for purposes such as work, tourism, or family visits, typically takes around three months to process.
Visas for migrating to Australia can take anywhere from a few months to over a year to process, depending on the applicant’s familial relationship with Australian citizens or permanent residents. Financial readiness is also important for migration to Australia. To support oneself in the country, a minimum of $5000 (Sh820,450) in the bank is required. Customs officials may ask for proof of funds upon arrival at the airport. The cost of visas varies depending on the type of visa being applied for. For example, visas such as the Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 887) or the Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186) will cost you Sh18,571 and Sh 179,813.93 respectively.
Medical examinations are mandatory for visa applicants. These examinations typically include a thorough physical examination, chest X-rays, urine and blood tests, and other tests for applicants aged 11 and older. The cost of these medical examinations depends on the age of the applicant and the type of visa. While migration agents are available to help with visa applications, their services are not required. However, if one chooses to use a migration agent, it is recommended to ensure that they are registered with the OMARA Registry.
Visa rejection can occur if applicants have hepatitis or serious heart conditions. Additionally, family members of applicants may be subject to health requirements, regardless of their intent to migrate to Australia. For students from other countries, there are opportunities to stay in Australia after graduation. The length of the post-study work visas varies depending on where you studied, with cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane offering longer visas compared to regional areas.
Moreover, there have been recent changes to visa regulations, including stricter English language proficiency requirements. Starting from early 2024, higher IELTS scores will be necessary for temporary graduate and student visas. Kenyan migrants who are planning to relocate to Australia can expect a promising journey, but it’s important to be financially prepared and follow visa requirements to successfully settle in Australia.
Very educative
Very educative