For most Sri Lankans, Australia is the ideal country to migrate to. With the right Australia job visa, Sri Lankan workers can access a low unemployment rate, a high minimum wage and a strong quality of life. Much of Australia’s appeal also lies in its large Sri Lankan community, which is why many Sri Lankan migrants see it as the best place to find jobs.
Which Occupations Are Best Suited For Migrants?
Education
There is a shortage of teachers in rural areas, especially for science and maths subjects. Education is an essential sector, which is why teaching occupations are prioritised in Australia.
Healthcare
Healthcare is a growing industry in Australia, so doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and other specialists are crucial to its healthcare system. With a constantly growing population of senior citizens, more healthcare professionals in aged care are vital for Australian healthcare.
IT/Technology
IT and technology are rising industries globally due to artificial intelligence (AI) and ongoing developments in the tech sector. IT is a popular field as technology is required in most industries, ranging from education to healthcare to security.
Skilled Tradespeople
Plumbers, electricians and other hands-on trades continue to be in demand in Australia. This is due to the increasing population, and because most people do not have the skills required to fix the issues that tradespeople handle.
Hospitality Workers
Hospitality workers include chefs, hotel staff, wait staff and so forth. Tourism is a booming industry in Australia, and with more and more hotels being established, they require workers to keep them up and running.
Which Australia Job Visa Lets Me Work in Australia?
Australia doesn’t have just one visa that clears your road to working there.
There are different types of work visas available for migrants looking to work in Australia. Skilled workers, graduates and employees have different options available. The following list highlights the main Australia job visa options for Sri Lankans.
Skills In Demand Visa
The Skills In Demand visa is there for when a suitable Australian worker can’t be found for a certain job, so the employer seeks a foreign worker as an alternative. However, the applicant’s employer should be in a labour agreement with the Australian government for them to be eligible to receive this visa. The Skills In Demand visa can lead to permanent residency as well.
Graduate Visa
A Graduate visa typically lasts for 18 months and is recommended for recent graduates.
To be eligible for this visa, the applicant must hold a qualification relevant to their occupation. This visa does allow the applicant to bring family with them.
Working Holiday Visa
A Working Holiday visa is given to those between the ages of 18 and 30. It lasts for 12 months and is only for short-term work and study within Australia.
Skilled Migrant Visa
The Skilled Migrant visa is a direct pathway to permanent residence in Australia. To receive this visa, the applicant must score enough points in a points-based system. This visa requires an EOI to be submitted through Australia’s SkillSelect portal.
Employer Sponsored Visas
This too is a pathway to permanent residence in Australia. It is only an option if your employer is Australian or in a labour agreement with the Australian government. Employer Sponsored visas are also for skilled workers.
How To Apply For Jobs In Australia From Sri Lanka
Applying for a job in a foreign country can seem confusing, but generally these steps have to be followed to find an occupation that suits you:
- Use an online resource such as SEEK or Jora to find available jobs that you are qualified for.
- Gather all the necessary documents, such as your passport, academic transcripts and IELTS scores.
- Submit an EOI, also known as an “Expression of Interest”, which is a form that those applying for skilled migration must complete.
- Apply for the Australia job visa that matches your occupation and goals
What Are The Requirements To Work In Australia As A Sri Lankan?
There are certain requirements that need to be fulfilled when applying to work in Australia. For instance, you have to apply online using an ImmiAccount. Although it is not a requirement, being between the ages of 18 and 45 is recommended when applying for a work visa. Other requirements to work in Australia include the following:
- A high IELTS score, since English language skills are highly valued and essential when working in Australia.
- Meeting the health and character requirements, as the Australian government checks these details very carefully.
- Proof of sufficient funds to show that you are capable of migrating to Australia.
- Academic transcripts, to show you have the necessary qualifications for a certain job.
- Proof of work experience, since this shows how much experience you have and, in turn, how qualified you may be for your job in Australia.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an Australia Job Visa
Common mistakes people make when applying for Australian jobs can cost them the chance to find the right job. These are the mistakes to avoid:
- Not updating your LinkedIn: an outdated profile can signal to potential employers that you may not be the right person for a job, and can cost you future interviews and job offers.
- Not checking on your EOI: new results or qualifications should be added to your EOI while it is active.
- Making mistakes in your applications: errors can delay the processing time for your visa, and delay your entire migration process.
- Not checking your qualifications meet Australian standards: if they don’t, this might cost you your eligibility for jobs abroad.
To avoid these mistakes when applying for a work visa in Australia, contact IMM Consults to help with your Australia job visa application. We can help you prepare the right documents, choose the right visa option for you and streamline your overall migration process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer sponsor me for permanent residency?
Yes, this is a viable pathway through an Employer Sponsored visa. Note that you can only apply for this visa if your employer is either Australian or connected to the Australian government through a labour agreement.
How can I find a job in Australia online?
Online job platforms such as Jora and SEEK can be used to find jobs available in Australia.
Do I need English language skills to work in Australia?
English language proficiency is a requirement to work in Australia. You must pass a recognised and approved test such as IELTS, PTE or TOEFL.
Does my LinkedIn profile matter when searching for jobs in Australia?
Yes. Your LinkedIn profile should be regularly updated so that employers can see your qualifications and experience, and view you as a viable candidate for their open positions.
Does my degree have to be Australian for me to be eligible to work in Australia?
No. Your degree does not have to be Australian, but it should be from a verified and recognised institution.
Which Australia job visa is best for Sri Lankans?
It depends on your skills, experience and whether you have a job offer. If an Australian employer is willing to sponsor you, the Skills in Demand visa or an Employer Sponsored visa is often the best route. If you don’t have a job offer but your occupation is in demand, the Skilled Migration visa lets you apply through Australia’s points-based system by submitting an EOI on SkillSelect. IMM Consults can help you find the Australia job visa that fits your profile.
