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Spouse’s Proof of English Proficiency for the 485 Visa

Article 4 taken from Immigration News (Volume 160) dated 2nd February 2010:   

All applicants should be aware that for the 485 visa, your spouse does not have to demonstrate any evidence of their English ability!! DIAC has been making unlawful requests to 485 applicants, who are including a dependent spouse in their applications.  Such requests include the spouse demonstrating they have Functional English or pay the $3510 second installment fee.

If anyone has paid the $3510 fee for their 485 visa, they should be requesting an immediate refund from DIAC as the request in the first instance was unlawful. If you also made a booking for an IELTS test for your spouse on the basis of the case officer request for an IELTS result you also have the right to ask DIAC to pay for the IELTS test.

This issue was raised to the Minister and a quick reply apologising for such requests being made.

485 Visa

Article 3 taken from Immigration News (Volume 160) dated 2nd February 2010:   

1) To 457 Business Visa

This is a good option if you are fortunate to have an Australian business to sponsor you. This 457 business visa can be from 3 months to 4 years in duration depending upon the business owners request to DIAC.
 
Since last year it’s now a complicated process to obtain business approval to sponsor any temporary visa applicant to work in Australia. If you are fortunate and wish to investigate this option visit DIAC’s web site for further information. Link: http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/skilled-workers/visa-options.htm.

2) To Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)

In one of my newsletters last year I covered the topic of the ENS option and if again you are fortunate this is the best option of all because this is a permanent residency visa. For more information use the above link.