Immigration and Citizenship Advice You Can Use Right Now

Thinking about leaving India for Australia? You’re not alone. Many Indians feel the pull of a different lifestyle, better jobs, or just a change of scenery. The hardest part isn’t the decision—it’s figuring out the steps that actually get you there.

Choose the Right Visa First

The visa you pick determines everything else. Skilled Migration, Student Visa, Partner Visa—each has its own set of points, requirements, and processing times. Start by using the Australian Department of Home Affairs points calculator. Enter your age, education, work experience, English score, and you’ll see instantly if you qualify for a Skilled Independent (subclass 189) or need a state‑sponsored option.

If you’re still studying, a Student Visa (subclass 500) could be a fast track. It lets you work up to 40 hours a fortnight and gives you a pathway to permanent residency after graduation. Just remember: you need a Confirmation of Enrolment from an Australian institution and proof of funds.

Get Your Documents in Order

Paperwork is the real time‑eater. Gather your passport, birth certificate, academic transcripts, work reference letters, and English test results (IELTS or PTE). Certified translations are a must if any document isn’t in English.

Tip: Create a checklist and label each file clearly. Upload everything to the online ImmiAccount as PDFs—no scanned photos, and keep the file size under 5 MB. Missing or blurry documents are the top reason visas get rejected.

Money matters, too. Apart from visa fees (which can be a few thousand dollars), you’ll need proof of sufficient funds for living expenses. A bank statement showing at least AUD 5,000 for a single applicant is a common baseline, but the exact amount varies by visa type.

Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive a Visa Grant Letter. It contains your visa subclass, validity period, work rights, and any travel conditions. Save a digital copy and print a hard copy for customs.

Now that you’ve cleared the big hurdles, what about life after you land?

Settling In Without the Stress

Finding a place to stay is easier if you start early. Websites like realestate.com.au and Flatmates.com.au list short‑term rentals and shared houses. Aim for a suburb close to public transport and your workplace or university to cut commuting costs.

Open an Australian bank account within the first two weeks. Most banks let you set up an account online before you arrive—you just need your passport and visa details. A local account makes paying rent, utilities, and getting a mobile number a breeze.

Healthcare is another must‑know area. If you have a permanent visa, you’ll likely be eligible for Medicare. Register with a local General Practitioner (GP) as soon as you can; it saves time and money when you need medical help.

Finally, connect with the Indian community in Australia. Groups on Facebook, cultural associations, and local temples offer a support network that can help you adjust to a new culture while keeping ties to home.

Feeling torn between two countries is normal. Use these practical steps to turn that feeling into action. With the right visa, organized paperwork, and a clear plan for settling, the move from India to Australia becomes less of a leap and more of a well‑planned journey.