The Victorian Government today provided updated information on skilled and business migration in the state. 

Both the subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) and subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional - State Sponsored Stream) remain open, with allocations not yet exhausted for the 2019/20 financial year.

However, the state advises that both programs are extremely competitive and that only fully documented applications are likely to succeed.

Unfortunately, nominations for the Business Innovation and Investment visa streams are no longer being accepted for the current financial year.

Information about these programs for the 2020/21 financial year will be made available in coming weeks. We'll keep you updated!

If you are interested in applying for visas in the skilled or business stream, please get in touch as soon as possible to discuss your requirements and options.

More state government information about migrating to Victoria can be found here.

There is light at the end of the tunnel for international students returning to Australia, with the Government's publication of the Roadmap to a Covidsafe Australia indicating a possible travel exemption for international students during Step 3.

Click here to see the Roadmap.

The timeframes will depend on state governments, but this could potentially happen by the end of July.

The creation of a 'travel bubble' between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands is also on the cards, with low coronavirus rates in all three regions. However, this idea is being approached cautiously by all parties.​

I'm often asked questions about Partner Visa requirements. 

The answers sometimes depend on a couple's individual circumstances, current visa status and country of origin.

However, it's possible to provide answers to general questions such as:

• Can we apply if we've only been together a short time?
• Can I work or study on my partner visa?
• How long will I have to wait for PR (permanent residence)?

Click here for the answers.

When your visa is granted, there are few feelings that can compare with the joy, satisfaction and relief you feel at that moment.

Fortunately, a successful visa outcome does not depend on luck.

There are several habits that successful visa applicants have in common, including being well-organised, and communicating frequently and openly with their migration agent.

If you're considering applying for a visa soon, check out our tip sheet outlining the 5 Habits of Successful Visa Applicants.