Starting a job in another country is a big choice, especially for Filipinos looking for work abroad. Australia is one place that many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) find appealing. It has a strong economy, diverse cultures, and a good quality of life.
In this helpful guide, we’ll answer common questions about getting a work visa for Australia. This guide is made especially for Filipino workers. Whether you’re a skilled worker, someone in a trade, or a recent graduate wanting to start your career in Australia, this article will explain the different types of Australian visas, who can apply, how to apply, and other important things to know.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
Getting a Job in Australia via the Working Visa
This article is based on a YouTube video made by the channel Ibentures OZ. The OFW vlogger answers the most frequently asked questions of her viewers related to the Australian working visa. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
The vlogger doesn’t have any family or relatives in Australia; she’s accompanied only by her husband and daughter. She doesn’t hold a student visa, nor is she classified as a skilled worker. In the Philippines, she worked as an administrative assistant, a position that doesn’t require any specific skills as mandated by the Australian government for skilled visa applications. Additionally, her husband is Filipino, not Australian. So, how did she manage to move to Australia?
Although she herself isn’t classified as skilled, her husband possesses the necessary skills. This video aims to address frequently asked questions from Filipinos who aspire to relocate to Australia. It’s important to note that while the vlogger isn’t a migration agent, her insights are based on extensive research and personal experiences.
Applying Online vs Applying in Person as a Tourist
- Apply for a tourist visa while in the Philippines.
- Online application is quick and allows unlimited submissions.
- Applying in person in Australia can be costly.
- Arriving on a tourist visa for job interviews may raise suspicions.
- Employers prefer video interviews for convenience.
- Video calls streamline the hiring process.
Work Experience is Needed
Yes, work experience is essential. It’s a crucial factor that makes you a strong candidate in the eyes of employers. They conduct interviews and sponsor individuals because they’re seeking skilled professionals who can effectively contribute to and enhance their company.
No Agency
They didn’t receive assistance from any agency; they managed everything themselves online and through email. However, once they had sorted out their visa, they engaged an agency. Their employer hired an agency to help with the visa process. The agency took care of the requirements and handled the visa lodgment. It’s important to note that while the agency facilitated the visa process, they didn’t handle job placement or other arrangements.
No English Exam
They obtained a certificate of English proficiency equivalent to a language exam. You can request this certificate from the university.
Expenses
- Medical checks: 5000 pesos each
- Plane ticket, visa fees covered by employer
- OEC from POEA before leaving Philippines
- 6-week accommodation in Australia covered by employer
- Lent car for 6 weeks covered by employer
The only expense they had was for medical checks, which amounted to 5000 pesos each. However, everything else was covered by the employer, including the plane ticket, visa fees, and other expenses. Additionally, before leaving the Philippines, they needed to obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) from the POEA.
Upon arrival in Australia, they also incurred expenses for a 6-week accommodation, but this was also covered by the employer. They were even provided with a car for the duration of 6 weeks, all courtesy of the employer.
While it’s common for individuals to cover their visa expenses, some cases involve sharing the costs, albeit with deductions from their salary. There are also instances where the salary might be lower, but accommodation is provided free of charge. However, typically, these expenses are shouldered by the employer.
On Citizenship
- Obtain permanent residency before citizenship.
- Citizens hold Australian passports; PRs hold Philippine passports.
- Citizens: childcare subsidies, tax exemptions, job changes, free healthcare.
- PRs: residency requirements, limited travel.
- PRs: 5-year validity, renewable. Citizens: no travel restrictions.
Before becoming a citizen, you first need to obtain permanent residency.
As an Australian citizen, you’re entitled to hold an Australian passport. On the other hand, permanent residents are only allowed to hold a Philippine passport, but they still enjoy the same benefits.
As a citizen, you’re eligible for childcare subsidies, exempt from foreign taxes when purchasing property, free to change employers, and entitled to free medical treatment in public hospitals.
For permanent residents, there are residency requirements. They must reside in Australia and can only leave the country for a limited period before returning.
Permanent residency is valid for five years and must be renewed thereafter. However, if you’re eligible for citizenship, it’s advisable to pursue it as there are no restrictions on the duration of time you can spend outside Australia once you become a citizen.
Age Restrictions for Visa Types
There’s no age limit for the 482 visa; anyone can apply. However, to be eligible for permanent residency, you must be below 45 years old. This is an important factor to consider, especially since rental costs in Australia are continuously rising.
Temporary arrangements can prove challenging due to increasing rental expenses. Therefore, the ultimate goal should be to obtain permanent residency and eventually citizenship. It’s crucial to consider the broader perspective rather than simply desiring to move to Australia on a whim.
Understanding Australian work visas is essential for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) aspiring to work in Australia. From application processes to expenses and benefits, this guide offers tailored insights to assist Filipino workers. Let’s navigate this journey with resilience and determination, empowered by knowledge, towards success in Australia and beyond.