457 Visa success stories & past experiences in time waited?

[Wanderlust32]

I have my prospective employer in the Northern Territory and they are currently in the nomination process of the visa?

I have a fantastic immigration agent and he assures me that with all holiday seasons, things slow down a little over Christmas.

The DIBP haven't asked for my Police Clearance yet or anything else and I was wondering if this is a normal time period for the visa and its only myself planning on coming over.

I have those documents rearing to go when they do ask though as I'm so eager to start this new adventure.

Also wanted to say hi and thanks for an informative and interesting forum.

Also wanted to double check, it seems a lot of the 189 or 190 visa's come through quickly once the documentation is all in, is there a difference to the 457 visa?

As with many others, the wait is killing me with anticipation....

[OubaasDik]

In Oz most of January is pretty much a write-off..

With schools normally only starting in February, it encourages parents to take most of the month off and it shows in service delivery. It gets so bad that service in January is ONLY 3 times as good as in SA.

You asked for success stories, but I've typed mine up many times before. There are many 457ers who came over here and managed to convert permanent residence of some sort. Just don't get complacent - push for it.

[Mara]

189 and 190 are permanent residence visas, where you can work for whoever you wish to, a 457 is just a temporary work permit which holds you to the sponsoring employer.

[Wanderlust32]

Hi Guys, thanks for the answers...I got my visa this morning

It really is the BEST feeling in the world!

[SurferMan]

Mate.

Then all is irrelevant. Enjoy Aus!

[OubaasDik]

Enjoy, but don't forget fighting for the BIG prize - the permanent residence.

Just to say, on a 457, you are in limbo somewhat ... not that I'm trying to widdle on your battery, but once you get here, and settle, start looking at what you can do.

[Wanderlust32]

Hi OubaasDik

Thanks so much and I certainly agree with you as the big prize is PR.

I will get on it as soon as I'm down under (excuse the prepositions )

[Wanderlust32]

Flights are all booked and I find the excitement has calmed down to a mild panic!

Just so much I'm leaving behind and going at it alone is always daunting.

[Riekie]

Your journey reminds me of the time when were at at the exact same spot where you are now; 457 Visas granted and then the panic and excitement set in! It's all part of the joyride - just hold on tight, close your eyes when you have to, scream if you have to and go with the ups and downs. When this rollercoaster stops at the other end, a whole new life awaits!