Australia and New Zealand have more than 100 different types of visas so it can be overwhelming when trying to determine which visa is right for you. There are visas for those who want to visit for holidays, study, work, live permanently, join their partners or family, invest or apply for the refugee and humanitarian program, just to name a few. But depending on your situation, what you need, and your particular circumstances, it’s important to find the right visa for you.
Each visa has different requirements with its eligibility, processing times, obligations, and costs that you will need to consider, as well as factors such as the length of time they permit you to stay in a country, when you intend to travel or if you have enough time to gather the information you need to provide.
While each visa application process is different, there are some common documents and steps that are required for most visa applications. We have created a list of tips to help you in preparing your documents and becoming one step closer towards obtaining an Australian or New Zealand visa.
Please note this is a general recommendation of documents you may need. These may or may not apply to you, each visa type and country will require different documents. Always consult with a Registered Migration Agent to understand what documents are required for your visa application and particular situation.
Identity documents
1. Passport: ensure you have at least 6 months validity before applying
2. Passport photo
3. Full unabridged birth certificate: must show parents’ names, place and date of birth
4. National ID card
Skills, education and occupation documents
5. Relevant qualification certificates (professional and educational)
6. Academic transcripts / Trade Test Report
7. English language proficiency: for some visas you’ll need to provide proof that you meet the minimum standards of English, however there are exemptions for some applicants. Remember that booking appointments for English tests may take longer than usual and some centers remain closed due to COVID 19
8. Any required registration / licensing relevant to your occupation
9. Skill assessment
Evidence of employment
10. Curriculum vitae or Résumé
11. Employment reference letters (ensure they are on company letterhead, include the start and end dates of employment, job title, tasks and duties or role and contact details of the employer)
12. Additional employment references from previous employers following the above format
13. Employment contracts
14. Payslips: for any job you can’t obtain a reference or confirmation of employment
15. Job offer (if you are applying for a work visa in New Zealand)
Relationship evidence (if applicable)
16. Original copy of marriage certificate and translation (if applicable)
17. Enough documents to prove you are in a de facto relationship* such as:
- Joint bank account statements
- Billing accounts in joint names e.g. gas, water, rates, electricity, insurances
- Joint leases or mortgages
- Documents that show you have lived at the same address as your partner
*You will need to show evidence of living together for at least 6 months, or 12 months to prove de facto relationship, depending on the visa type.
Depending on the visa you are applying for and the specific requirements of that, and your situation, you may also require character documents, health reports, health insurance or police clearance documents. Again you should discuss exactly what is needed with a Registered Migration Agent.
Time frame
- Australia: begin preparing your documents as soon as possible or at least 2-3 months before applying
, except for Medicals and Police Clearances (unless we advise so) - New Zealand: begin putting documents together as soon as possible, except for Medicals and Police Clearances, we do not recommend booking these until you are ready to apply.
The general rule is that English Translations will be required for all documents that are in a language other than English.
Remember, we’re here to analyse your personal situation and advise you on the visa that best suits your objectives!
