Migrating to Australia - My Journey (Part 1)

 VISA. 


I can almost hear a deep voice of a monster saying that 4 letter word. With echo.


Urgh, I wish I don't have to hear it again because it reminds me of my anguish over the whole application process. But I thank God for His guidance, I know He is with me in my every step towards this new life.

Miracles happened. One after another.


It started with FRUSTRATION. I couldn't take the long-distance relationship anymore. I am in Malaysia while my boyfriend is in Australia. I didn't know how to start and what I can do about it.


And then the first miracle happened. I bumped into my cousin brother whom I've not spoken to in years and he told me that his girlfriend is in Australia and he was looking out for a suitable visa to apply so he can be with her soon. I was like "OMG, are you serious? ME TOO!!!". How convenient, thank you God!

So initially I thought of applying for a Holiday Work Visa. But I soon realized it was not a suitable choice.
My top 3 reasons being:

(1) It is only valid for 1 year
(2) Limited visas are given out every year (100 allocations per year) and it's usually gone on the first day!
(3) Not allowed to apply for permanent jobs

So I was left with 2 choices - Partner Visa or Prospective Marriage Visa. We went through some online forums and the conclusion was:

(1)The price you have to pay for either visa is about the same. 

Yes, either you apply for Prospective Marriage Visa first, and then Partner Visa OR directly apply for Partner Visa (skipping the whole Prospective Marriage Visa), it is going to cost you the same.

(2)Prospective Marriage Visa is faster

The processing time for a Prospective Marriage Visa takes about 3-10 months. When we heard the word "faster", we knew this is it. We are desperate and we want it FAST.

So the next question was should we engage a migration agent or should we do this on our own? All the documents and information needed for the application is very clearly stated in the website. But a migration agent guarantees your money back if you get the visa approved. It's like buying an insurance. Should we or should we not?

And then the 2nd miracle happened. My cousin decided to engage a migration agent. And the best thing is he is going to share with me everything the agent tells him to do. I just had to follow his lead. Crazy but true.

From this experience, I would say the best thing the agent provided was a summary list of the documents needed from you (the Applicant) and your partner (the Sponsor). But, can you do that summary list on your own? YES. In fact there is a checklist at the end of your application forms but the one provided by the agent gives you a very good overview of all the documents needed and with clear instructions on how to obtain those documents. The other privilege is the agent will help you fill up some of the forms and go through all your documents carefully to ensure there are no mistakes. Again, can you do that on your own? YES. So my conclusion is, if you have the extra money, by all means go ahead and engage with an agent because it saves you a lot of headache BUT if you don't have the money, don't despair, you can still do it on your own.

I submitted my application on the 31st July 2013 and a week later, today, I received a reply!! Now that's what I call EFFICIENCY! I received 2 attachments in the email from my case officer: an acknowledgement letter and a referral letter for medical check up.


WWWEEEeeeeeeee, I never felt happier going for a medical check-up!! I must be crazy :')



One step closer towards my dream.  Sweet.  Goodnight!