sleepywombat

Hey Nina My application was lodged in November 2009 and I am still waiting. Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing how long it will take... Cx

Hi Sorry for the delay in replying - Christmas and things took over for a wee while!! I came here on an ETA and applied on-shore for the 835 LRR visa a week later. I applied for working rights at the same time and was asked to complete a hardship form. On this, I explained that I was in the country with virtually no money or assets and that whilst I was planning on residing with my parents and that they were fully understanding in having to support me, I didn't want them to. I wrote on the form that they are 'self-funded retirees (which is the phrase they like as it clarifies that Oz isn't giving them any money!). I was able to start work once the 3 month tourist visa stamp had expired and my Bridging Visa started. One note of caution for this is that your son should keep all copies of all paperwork and record the name of the person who sorts out his Bridging Visa. Once I was allocated my CO, I had to prove that I had been given working rights (right hand/left hand!!). I was able to do this quickly as I had requested a passport label (which they don't give out as a matter of course). I had posted out paperwork prior to me flying as I was worried about getting stopped at customs and trying to prove that I was only on holiday whilst having a suitcase full of my life and discs with my cv on.... I wasn't stopped but I certainly felt more comfortable knowing that my health records, banking paperwork and work references were here waiting for me... I didn't front-load my medical or police checks due to immi being able to date these and then somehow prove that I had entered the country under false pretences... I have had my application in since November 2009 and am still waiting, but at least I am here and working and getting on with my life.... Let me know if you need any further help and I will do my best. It's not an easy process emotionally or physically, but it can be done Cx

I'm on-shore Frizzy1 I was advised that it would be around a 6 month wait - which it obviously hasn't been !!!! Anyway - I'm here and working and happy so it really holds no problems for me (apart from feeling a little land-locked!!!) Cx

Hi All A quick update from me My LRR visa application has been in since November 2009. I contacted my case officer last week to ask for an update on the visa and to ask for advise on getting travel rights as I have a new job and I may need to travel to our offices in NZ at short notice... The response wasn't hugely positive... "Your application is still being processed though I cannot advise of when it will be finalised. Re your query on Bridging visa B, it is possible to apply for such visa which is valid for one year instead of just for few months. Please ensure to provide any relevant information in the application form (Form 1006) when you apply for Bridging visa B." I may be reading a little too much between the lines but I am thinking that this means I could be in for another 12 month wait! I'll keep you all updated if I hear anything else... Cx