COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT IMMIGRATION AND HIRING GLOBAL TALENT
You’re not alone in thinking that world events might have pushed hiring talent internationally and immigration to the bottom of the priority list.
But, as we’ve experienced first-hand at The Migration Agency (TMA), we’re busier than ever helping businesses and employees achieve their goals.
We thought it was a good opportunity to address some of the most commonly asked questions and misconceptions we hear around the office and boardroom.
Global talent hiring has come to a standstill
Not quite. Sure, regular business trips to London, New York or Hong Kong might be on hold but for those with critical skills or operating in sectors in critical categories, business travel is still happening. Although, granted there is a little more paperwork than there used to be! For example, there are travel exemption pathways available to critical industries and critical workers.
As a global mobility specialist there’s nothing for me to do
A study by PWC showed that despite disruption, companies are still prioritising strategic mobility projects and are using the current conditions as an opportunity to refine their global mobility strategies and processes. This tracks with our own experiences and conversations with clients and aligns with the overall industry belief that, while it might take time, businesses continue to need global reach and we will return to some level of normal global movement in the future.
We have seen that with a strong business case there is still ample opportunity for people to successfully apply and receive a travel exemption that allows them to return home or travel to Australia for important business. HR and global mobility specialists are still very much needed for organisations wanting to take advantage of skilled international talent.
Critical skills aren’t being considered for immigration visas or exemptions
Actually, the pandemic has shored up Australia’s focus on seeking global talent with critical skills, particularly those with specialised knowledge required to maintain the supply of essential goods and services, and international talent who work in jobs on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation list (you don’t need to work in a Priority Occupation to qualify). We are seeing a push for talent in industries such as technology and health and life sciences and bringing the skills and expertise in these specialist areas to Australia. For example, at a recent conference we were involved in conversations that highlighted the need for clinical research professionals in Australia. These skilled workers are perfect for the needs of Australian medical and healthcare industries and can qualify for a travel exemption.
The process of applying for a visa to work in Australia is something I can do easily myself
Sure, you could carry the application process yourself but consider this: would you build a house if you’ve never built anything before? No, we wouldn’t either. In fact, we regularly see a high rate of self-lodged travel exemption requests be refused. A combination specific nuances in the assessment criteria and the everchanging situation with COVID all make it much harder to do on your own.
The process of applying for visas to immigrate and work in Australia is something we have worked on every day for more than 15 years. We know the requirements inside out, are up to date with every minor change and process, and can help prepare the strongest business case possible for your application. Particularly as we operate in a pandemic, the insights and requirements to achieve a successful outcome are changing rapidly, partnering with a strong ally such as TMA to help you successfully achieve your goal can save you time, money and a whole lot of stress!
Read some of our success stories here.
A travel exemption is just an online form I need to complete
We understand how people might think this. A travel exemption request, however, needs to answer the decision-making criteria outlined in the policy guidelines and include strong evidence that supports the exemption request. If only it were as straight forward as filling in a few form fields and hitting submit! The decision-making process is far more regimented requiring a compelling case with sufficient supporting evidence to show the benefit of the person travelling outweights the health risk to Australia.
When you work with a specialist like the team at The Migration Agency, we’re able to prepare a relevant and detailed business case that outlines why the applicant’s skills are unique and warrant an exemption. We have a working knowledge of the ins and outs of the process and what regular changes are happening. It’s an investment worth making to get the process right, the first time.
I’m a temporary visa holder so I can’t leave Australia
While it isn’t as simple as booking a return airfare and going in and out of Australia anymore, you can as a temporary visa holder, still leave and return to Australia. That is, so long as you have a travel exemption to come back into the country. Qualifying for the exemption comes down to a strategic and savvy approach that ensures there is sufficient information supporting the request including that you have critical skills, have an urgent need to travel or a compelling compassionate reason to travel overseas.
The exemption to this is if you’re a New Zealander on a subclass 444 visa. You don’t need an outbound or inbound travel exemption.
More questions?
If you have any global hiring, mobility or immigration questions our team is on hand to help you. Give us a call to book a consultation today.