Visa or not?

[Andy & Kelly]

Hi,

Me and my girlfriend want to move over to Perth as soon as possible. I'm a locksmith, which as far as i'm aware is still on the trades list. My girlfriend is a manager at Vodafone. I have an uncle living in perth and has done for many years. We are thinking of basically turning up in perth and taking things from there rather than applying for a full visa beforehand. Is this a good idea? Will it end in tears? Basically we want to settle in Oz but don't want to waste time in the UK waiting for a visa.

All help greatfully received!

[calNgary]

Hiya ,,im no expert but personally i think your better doing the paperwork in the uk and coming when your visa is granted,for the tra alone you need lotys of info and references etc from employers.I know you arent to be in Australia when the visa is granted but not sure of the ins and outs ,if one of our agents dosnt pick up on your question try calling Visa Bureau and asking their advice,they were fantastic with us ,,good luck in your quest but dont jump too soon or it may go t*ts up for you.
Cal x

[ItsJo]

If you are under 30 I think you can apply for a working holiday visa, It will last you a year and if you can apply for a sponsorship from an employer whilst there it will give you a further 4 years, leading up to permanent residency should you want to apply then, still think you have to be out of the country before it is granted tho..But I may be wrong...
I know of another couple that tried obtaining a 136 visa whilst in Oz and they couldnt, they had to be in thier home country..Just saying what I know but I am sure someone will be able to help you further
Welcome to PIO :)

[ali]

Getting perm residency visa if you can whilst in the UK is the best option I think. Applying here would mean you had to be off shore when it's granted and would mean a trip to singapore (or similar).

I'd speak to an agent, like Cal says you could find it could belly up

Ali