Australia - British Expat Forum

Hi everyone,

I used to live in Melbourne and I'd love to get back, but the points system has been a bit of a thorn lately. I'm an illustrator which isn't recognised as an in-demand job, but an agent from Immigration Unit said that if I got a letter from a previous employer saying theat my skills are in demand, then it'd help my position a Hell of a lot more.

Is this true? Or is the points system absolute?

I appreciate any help you can give.

All the best,
Tom

Hi tom,

I was sure that the points were a very important issue, but this guy should know what he's talking about, you'd think anyway. You won't lose anything by trying though, will you - nothing ventured, nothing gained, eh?

Best wishes,
SSue 8)

Hi Sue,

Thanks for the reply. I'd like to believe the agent, but I've heard a few stories of agents promising more than they can get, then just saying "Sorry, no Visa" once you've paid their fee.

Tom

Ah yes, good point. I'd like to believe that everyone is totally honest, but that's sadly not always the case

You could contact the DIC, and ask them the question?

Cheers, SSue 8)

I know what you mean. I wanted to try and be sure before I fork out the £180 the agency ask for to deal with the application.

I guess I should just grit my teeth, pay, and hope for the best.

Tom

I would be getting a second opinion from another agency. A letter from your former employer stating that your skills are in demand wont carry any weight with Immigration. Your skill is either on the list or it isn't. Sorry.

Hi Nemesis,

Cheers for the advice. Can anyone suggest a reputable agency I can contact?

Thanks,
Tom

Sorry Tom, we make it a rule never to recommend any independant agent or company, because having had no personal dealings with any, it would only be hearsay, and not necessarily reliable.

However, we have had a couple of established agents who have advertised their businesses on our forum, and their contact details are in their signatures, if you want to read through the posts, under this heading mainly.

Best wishes,
SSue 8)

SSue wrote:Sorry Tom, we make it a rule never to recommend any independant agent or company, because having had no personal dealings with any, it would only be hearsay, and not necessarily reliable. However, we have had a couple of established agents who have advertised their businesses on our forum, and their contact details are in their signatures, if you want to read through the posts, under this heading mainly. Best wishes, SSue 8)

I've had personal dealings with one called (removed by SSue) when we getting our visas. Was great at sorting out problems even though he was in Australia and we were back home in England.

Please abide by the rules of the forum. Every post is moderated, and I explained why we don't give out personal recommendations.