The Process

As mentioned I have now received instruction from our migration lawyers which detailed our instructions which, thankfully, didn't self distruct after reading

 For those interested here are the basic steps to getting a visa (abridged version):

•  I provide personal documents to the agents office (including medical and English test results as required).
• They prepare Department of Immigration & Citizenship (DIAC) visa application forms for all family members. 
• These will be sent to me by email to be verified and signed.
• They will prepare Department of Immigration & Citizenship visa application forms and supporting documents for my employer to complete.
• Myself and my employer verify, signed and return DIAC forms and supporting documents to them.
• They prepare written submissions in support of your application which we lodge, together with the DIAC forms, my supporting personal documents and information about my employer
• They monitor your residency application and liaise with Immigration with regards to any queries or clarification.
• DIAC notifies us of the outcome of the visa application.
• Furhter instructions are provided to arrange visa evidencing.

Sounds simple doesn't it.  But wait, this little list starts with a Mount Everest of complication before it even gets started.  That innocent little phase "personal documents" cloaks a much longer list.  The documents needed include:

• Certified copy of your passport bio-data pages, pages with Australian visa labels and entry and departure stamps.
• If applicable, certified copy of the passport bio-data pages, and pages with Australian visa labels and entry and departure stamps, for any family members to be included in the application
• Two recent passport photos for you and any included family members in the application
• If applicable, certified copy of your marriage certificate/ OR de facto documentation confirming that you and your spouse have lived together for at least the last 12 months.
• Certified copy of any previous divorce decrees (if applicable).
• Certified copy of any change of name deeds (if applicable)
• Certified copy of military discharge certificate for any compulsory or non-compulsory service completed (if applicable).
• Certified copy of your qualifications (e.g. diploma certificate, bachelors degree etc).
• Copies of two recent pay slips.
• Copy of your Subclass 457 approval notification email for you and any included family members
• Evidence of English language ability.
• Police clearances for each and every country you have lived for more than 12months in the last 10 years
• Medical checks.

And so starts the challenge........can I gather together all these pieces of paper before my stamina gives out........well of course I can, I lived in DUBAI!!