Frequently Asked Questions

All That You Ever Wanted To Know About  Australian Subclass 476 Visa

What is the Subclass 476 Visa?

The Subclass 476 Visa also called the Skilled Recognized Graduate Visa is a Visa for recent engineering graduates from recognized institutes. This Visa allows them to look for employment and work in Australia for up to 18 months.

Which “Engineering Degrees” are eligible?

In the last two years before you apply, you must have completed any one of the following qualifications in Engineering:

  1. Bachelors Degree
  2. Masters Degree
  3. PhD

What does “A Recognized Institute” mean?

In Australia, a recognized institute offering an Engineering degree is accredited under the Washington Accord. It is an international agreement among professional bodies of participating countries that are responsible for accrediting Engineering degrees.
It assures that the degrees accredited by the professional bodies of the participating countries are significantly equivalent to the degrees in Australia.

What if your institute is not recognized under the Washington Accord?

In that case, you must have a degree from one of the other recognized institutes listed on the official Immigration website of the Dept. of Home Affairs.

How can you prove English language proficiency for the Subclass 476 Visa?

To prove your English language proficiency you may take any one of the tests below:

  1. IELTS (Academic): Should have an overall score of 6 with minimum 5 in each band
  2. PTE (Academic): Should have an overall score of 50 with at least 36 in each band

Would I get a job in my relevant field?

Eventually, yes! You have plenty of time (almost 18 months) to explore opportunities that interest you. In the beginning, we suggest you do an internship to familiarize yourself with the Australian work culture. Once you do, that would also reflect positively on your Resume and it would be easier for you to land a job in your relevant field.

Do I have to come back after the 18 months are up? Can I stay longer / can I extend the stay?

This Visa is a great opportunity for engineering graduates if they are seeking PR in Australia. The requirements are fairly simple, after completing 18 months you can apply for PR through 491 Visa.

Do I have to come back after the 18 months are up? Can I stay longer / can I extend the stay?

This Visa is a great opportunity for engineering graduates if they are seeking PR in Australia. The requirements are fairly simple, after completing 18 months you can apply for PR through 491 Visa.

What is the maximum response time for getting the grant?

The maximum response time is about 15 months. However, if you apply through CMS Migration, there is 95% chance of getting the grant within 8 months.

Can I appeal a refused decision on my application?

Inadequate documentation, not meeting state nomination requirements, unclear information, typing errors or inadvertent omission of information/document(s), are not reasons to review a decision to refuse.

Therefore, it is bot always recommended to be a ‘self-applicant’.

Should I apply for my Visa through a migration agency?

If you need more information or assistance with the migration process, you can use a registered migration agency. Migration agencies can help with choosing the right visa type for your individual circumstances and can help with the application process.

What can be the possible reasons for delay in the Visa process?

Usually, delays are due to errors and omissions committed by applicants. There can be inaccuracies in the uploading of your visa documents. Accurate uploading of all documents in proper order can help speed up the assessment of your applications.
Only Subclass 476 specialized migration agencies (like CMS Migration) can assist in proper submission of all the necessary documents on time. Here are some of the common reasons for the delay in Visa subclass 476 processing times.

Would I have to look for the job myself?

CMS Migration just provides Visa assistance. The job you’ll have to look for yourself once you go there, but we suggest you do your research while waiting for the visa. Look up the companies that you want to work for, look for available positions you are interested in and apply. Once you get the visa you can go for interview with these companies, meet people and build your network over there. This visa just ensures your presence in Australia.

Would Subclass 476 Visa lead to PR?

The Visa is a great opportunity for engineering graduates if they are seeking PR in Australia. The requirements are fairly simple and once you get the visa, you can apply for PR through the state sponsorship 491 Visa.

Which city should I go if I am seeking state sponsorship?

We recommend that you go to regional area to qualify for state sponsorship. Among them, Canberra is the fastest growing and has multiple opportunities for engineers. It has all the benefits of a main city like Melbourne yet the cost of living is way less.

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