I am B.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering in 2007 Now working as Network Engineer Since last 1.25 years I wish to know if I am eligibe for SIR Visa in AUstralia If yes Can you please asess my Visa points as Age---22 English Speaking Level---Average(will get more than 7 Bands in IELTS) Education qualification --- B.Tech in Electronics & Comm. with 77 % Work Experience ---- Working as Network Enginner since last 1.25 years If not then can you please tell me which Visa is applicable for me.. I also want to know Which IELTS test is needed for this (Academic or general)??

Asked by Gagandeep Kumar Garg on 9 September 2008 at 7:36 PM.

Answered by Studyplaces Counsellor Australia New Zealand

SKILLED INDEPENDENT REGIONAL (SIR) VISA - Australian Immigration is for skilled migrants interested in living and working in specific regional areas. The scheme provides skilled migrants with a temporary visa to look for employment and explore lifestyle opportunities. After living and working in an area of specific regional for a minimum period, you may become eligible for permanent residency. SIR visa holders can live anywhere in Australia except in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, the NSW Central Coast, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Perth, Melbourne or the ACT. Applicants for a SIR (Provisional) visa must have state or territory government sponsorship. Through a two-stage visa process, SIR visa holders must live and work in or a low population growth metropolitan area for at least 2 years before they can apply for permanent residence. Two stage process to permanent residence Skilled applicants who are sponsored by a state or territory government and who can obtain 110 points on the general skilled migration points test can apply for permanent residence through a two stage process: Stage 1 - SIR (Provisional) visa stage - successful applicants will be granted a 3 year temporary visa to live and work/study in regional Australia. Stage 2 - Permanent residence stage - SIR visa holders who have met the SIR visa conditions of having lived in regional Australia for at least 2 years; and having been employed (including self employed) for at least 12 months in regional Australia; may apply for one of the following permanent residence visas .An IELTS of overall 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0) will be the mandatory requirement by the Australian Visa High Commission. More info please check-Study in Australia