We are applyng for a Contributory Parent Visa which is going to take about 18 months to come through. At first, I was extremely frustrated at the timeline - after all, we will be paying the Aussie Govt around $62,000 , plus a $14,000 bond by our Assurers of Support and then we are not eligible for any benefits for 10 years.
When I discoverd PIO, I was a little peeved at people complaining because they were having to wait 6 months or so for the whole application to be done and dusted. BUT, I have to say that after reading all the stories of you lovely people and those blasted TRA's, job offers that get cancelled, authorisation of qualifications, etc., I don't envy you younger ones in the least. Our visa is going to take 3 times longer, but at least our application is very straightforward - just fill in the form and send proof of balance of family and that's it, sit tight and wait. By the time we get there, we will both be retired, so are not going to have the hassle of finding jobs or renting (we will be staying with rellies until we buy a house), so on balance, I think in some ways we have it easier - at least a heck of a lot less stressful anyway.
So, just really wanted to say that I feel for all of you who are having such a stressful time with your applications, but I am sure you will all get there in the end and be able to live the dream.
Jean x
__________________ 27/07/07 Acknowledgement - 13/06/08 Case Officer! 03/07/08 AOS paid 09/08/08 2nd VAC Request 22/09/08 VISA GRANTED
