Australian subclass 676 visa...difficult approval?

Question

I'm looking into applying for the 676 subclass visa into Australia so that when my boyfriend moves there for work, I can come with him. I obviously want to be able to stay for as long as possible, so am I going the right route with applying for the 676? I don't have a work or school sponor, so from what I've read so far, it looks like this is the way to go? Am I right? Should I go another route? If I apply for this visa, what are my chances of being granted the 12 month term? What steps must I take. I've read the http://www.immi.gov.au/ website, but I'm looking for firsthand experience or suggestion from other Aussies...thanks :)

Answer 1

Subclass 676 visas are easy to get, but I wouldn't think that it would be the right visa for you. It's a tourist visa and it only gives you 3 to 6 months here in which time you can't work or study. The 12 month term is only granted in special circumstances and I doubt if yours would qualify from the information you've given. They're normally only given to people with special family or cultural requirements.

If you're an American between 18 and 30 and have enrolled, or been enrolled and deferred as a post-secondary student, or are a graduate from, an accredited post-secondary institution, you can apply for a 12 month Working Holiday vias. They're also easy to get, but you must be able to meet the educational requirements I've listed. If you're from the UK or Canada and a few other countries, there are no educational requirements.

If you're an American and qualify, you can apply online. Go to http://www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-...

If you don't qualify for a WH visa, and a 676 is too short, your only other (outside) chance is to apply for a spouse visa to come with your boyfriend, but you would need to have been living with him (and able to prove it beyond doubt) for 12 months or more.

http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/general-s...