Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Why should I use Thames Migration?

• Competitive Rates. We are upfront and proud of our prices!
• Dedicated personal agent for your application
• Regular one to one contact.

More Migrants now using Agents

It now seems more migrants to Australia are using agents compared to migrants of other destinations according to the latest Emigrate Australia reader survey. 59.4% of readers now say they are using an immigration consultant for their applications.

The Emigrate Australia reader survey looked at various issues of the immigration process including demographics, family factors, motivations and the immigration process. Other significant trends for Australia include Western Australia taking out a clear victory as the preferred destination for UK migrants (followed by South Australia) and financial motivations rising in comparison to lifestyle and climate factors. 

Most respondents indicated that the waiting was the most difficult part of the process.  Therefore, there is a strong case for using an immigration consultant, who can possibly help the applicant avoid unnecessary delays and assist by presenting a correct and complete application.

Secondly, the application process and preparing paperwork was also perceived to be a difficult part of the process. Again, there is a strong case for immigration consultants who can make the application process smoother and clearer and provide personalised assistance and representation in this bureaucratic process.

The vast majority of readers also indicated the more appealing lifestyle and safer place to bring up children, with climate being a major factor for emigration to Australia.
Source: Emigrate Australia January 07, Outbound Publishing

DIY ‘Do-it-yourself’ – Failure Rate Explored

Industry feedback shows that an estimated 30% of all applicants who lodge their application online and directly with the immigration authorities get it wrong and fail because they did not use a registered migration agent to compile and double check their application and immigration eligibility.
 
Applicants who do not use an agent become confused and frustrated with the application process and find it difficult or impossible to get answers to their specific concerns or questions from the immigration authorities. As a result, they unnecessarily drop out of the application process.
 
Overall, an estimated up to 50% failure rate for "do-it-yourself" applicants applying directly to the immigration authorities.
 
This compares with a success rate of 98.5% for applicants that apply through officially-recognised MARA registered agencies such as the Thames Migration who can help navigate you through the bureaucratic maze.

2. Which visa can I apply for?

There is a broad range of visas and their sub-classes. To find the best one for you, fill in our FREE online migration assessment at www.thamesmigration.com or call us for a FREE informal chat on 0208 996 0120.

3. How long does it take?

This depends on the type of visa you are applying for. But on average the process takes about 12-18 months.

4. What are the costs involved?

As every applicant is different, costs do vary, however as a general guide, the cost to Migrate to Australia ranges from about £2000-£3000. This is a guide to the total cost for a migration application. All costs are split over the entire process to make it as manageable as possible.

5. Can I visit Australia while my migration application is in progress?

Yes. However you may need to meet specific requirements for that class of visa in terms of length of stay and type of stay. If you do intend to visit Australia you must inform your agent so your application can be processed smoothly.

6. Can I be granted my visa while I'm in Australia?

No. You must be outside of Australia for your Migrant Visa to be granted. You will have to depart Australian shores for your visa to be granted and evidenced in your passport. However you do not have to return to the country where your application was initially lodged. You can have this done at any Australian overseas mission.

7. Do I have to send original documents with my application?

No. The Australian Government do not accept original documents and therefore neither do Thames Migration. All documents sent to the relevant body in Australia must be certified copies.

8. Do I need to go in person to the Embassy at any time during the process?

It is unlikely; however the consulate do have the right to ask you in for an interview at any stage. This is nothing to be concerned about.

9. Do I need to come into your offices during the process?

Any of our clients or potential clients are welcome to our offices at any stage of the process. Nevertheless we also communicate with many of our clients solely via mail, email or phone.

10. If I am approved, how long do I have before I have to enter the country?

You are not required to catch the first flight to Australia once your visa has been granted, although you are more than welcome to!
As a general guide you will normally have about 6-12 months to activate your visa by entering into Australia.

11. Do I have to submit my passport for the whole application process?

No. Your passport is only required at the final stage of your application when your visa is granted.

12. I have heard horror stories about the medical. Should I be worried?

No definitely not. The medical is a straightforward process. At the end of which, you have peace of mind about you and your family's health. Speak to your agent for more information on 0208 996 0120.

13. Is there a restriction on the amount of money I have to take into Australia?

No. However to support yourself and your family on the initial settling in process it is advised to have at least £5000 pounds in savings.

14. What is the next step I should take now?

Fill in our FREE online assessment at www.thamesmigration.com or give us a call for a FREE informal chat on 0208 996 0120

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