Immigration to Australia from the UK

For Britons seeking a fresh start abroad, one of the most promising destinations would be Down Under in Australia. No other nation provides a wealth of shared history or language as well as an immigration policy that welcomes newcomers with open arms. You don't need to be a scientist, doctor, or engineer to be accepted either; Australia provides a long list of eligible occupations for skilled migration, including trade occupations.

According to official government statistics, immigration to Australia from the UK has more than doubled in recent years, climbing from 9000 at the beginning of the decade to just over 23,000 in 2007.

There are many reasons for the rise in the number of British people seeking a new life in Australia, including an appealing climate, unique and diverse wildlife, and a growing economy with low unemployment.

Australia also has an ace up its sleeve: The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program, an immigration policy that actively encourages skilled workers to move to Australia and gain permanent residence.

Unlike the UK, Australia does not require people with trade skills to have a job offer before being allowed to live and work in the country if they apply for a particular visa under the GSM.

Australia maintains the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), a list of occupations that are eligible under the GSM. The list includes trades such as plumbers, electricians, cooks, shoemakers -- even piano tuners -- for which Britons can claim points towards approval on their immigration application. The system also requires knowledge of English, which should prove no problem for someone from the UK.

For UK tradespeople, skilled migration to Australia has never been easier. However, the system can be complex and difficult to navigate, as most immigration procedures are.

"The first port of call for anyone looking to relocate their career Down Under are the offices of a registered migration agent," a recent article on Australian immigration stated in the Independent. "These are specialist advisers who are well informed about the latest developments in the Australian immigration system, and will tailor their advice to meet a client's requirements."

With the help of our certified Australian immigration consultants, you can be certain that our application for a permanent Australian visa will be handled in a professional and knowledgeable manner.

As a first step, fill out our free UK Tradespeople assessment form, or if you are a skilled professional, fill out are free general Australian immigration assessment form. A qualified Australian immigration advisor will contact you shortly.