John Griffiths

BUSINESS MIGRATION

Introduction

Australia has a rigorous system of immigration control. Migration into Australia is administered by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship – see www.immi.gov.au.

Any person entering Australia must have a Visa and there are some 200 visa classes covering everything from students to refugees to family re-unions to skilled to business visas and more. In order to obtain a Visa a person must apply and can do that by themselves (again refer to the DIAC website) or can utilise the services of a Registered Migration Agent. John Griffiths & Co uses a small number of agents who are approved suppliers. There are complete lists of Migration Agents available on the net – www.themara.com.au

Among the many classes of visas there are a range of visas which are specifically aimed at experienced business people and senior executives.

The entry requirements can vary from time to time so it is best to go to the web site of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) (www.immi.gov.au)

Many business migrants are able to enter Australia via State Sponsored Visas ie. a State will examine a proposal and decide if they will approve of that person to emigrate to that state. If so, they will then recommend to DIAC that the Sponsored Visa is approved. Each State has slightly differing offerings and it is best to go to the relevant State web sites.

John Griffiths & Co specialises in commercial and business issues surrounding the various Business Visa classes. Many of these classes require that the applicant (with a business background in their country of origin) involve themselves in business in Australia – either by commencing business, buying a business or acquiring a significant interest in a business. Any of these actions require some detailed advice – some examples are:

  • Concluding tax affairs in country of origin before arriving in Australia
  • In conjunction, with a migration agent, examining what might be the best commercial arrangement to fit with the visa being applied for – buying a business or share in a business and where that might be (regional or in a capital city)
  • Looking at what local financing might be available to purchase a business or an interest in a business.