Perth Visas & Permits

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?
Your status in Australia will depend on the type of visa on which you enter the country. New Zealand citizens may live and work in Australia without a visa. However, they no longer have automatic right to Permanent Residency and must apply for this through the Department of Immigration & Border Protection (DIBP).

What kinds of visas are available?
Australia has a large number of visas specifically for migrants, business people and tourists. The visas are listed, along with information on who may apply for them, at the DIBP website. It can be useful to engage a Registered Migration Agent to assist you with the visa process. Crown can refer you to a Registered Migration Agent in Australia.

What is required to obtain these visas?
The Department of Immigration & Border Protection, a Commonwealth Government department, manages all aspects of immigration into Australia. There are strict criteria for migrating to Australia and the documentation required will vary considerably depending on the category of visa that you are applying for. Ask Crown Perth for more information.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?
Spouses of business people on a Sub-Class 457 visa, which is the most common type of expatriate visa for business people on international assignment in Australia, may work in Australia. However, there are some Commonwealth and State Government jobs that are available only to Permanent Residents of Australia. Holders of other types of visas should confirm eligibility for spouses to work directly with their migration agent or the Department of Immigration & Border Protection.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?
You will typically use your driver's license, passport or your Medicare card for identification, though some business visa holders will not be able to join Medicare and will therefore have to rely on their driver's license and passport or other forms of ID. Please ask Crown Perth for more details.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?
You do not need to register at a police station or consulate when you arrive in Australia. It would be prudent to register with Medicare, if eligible, as soon as possible.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?
Quarantine and Customs are quite strict in Australia and there are prohibited and restricted items. Information can be obtained from the AQIS (Australian Quarantine Inspection Services) and Australian Customs Service websites, as well as Crown Perth.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?
Having a valid visa is essential.