DAMA Visa is one of the latest visa options introduced by the Australian government in 2018. In the article below, let’s explore what sets this visa apart from others.
WHAT’S DAMA VISA?
The DAMA Visa (Designated Area Migration Agreement) is a special visa program the Australian government offers. It is an agreement between the Australian government and a specific region, state, or territory authority to support skilled and semi-skilled foreign workers for positions that the local workforce cannot fulfill, addressing labor shortages.
In other words, with the Australian DAMA Visa, businesses can hire foreign employees with specific skills they need while providing these foreign workers with an opportunity to settle in Australia. Currently, there are 6 DAMA regions announced by the Australian government, including Northern Territory, Goldfields (WA), Great South Coast (VIC), City of Adelaide and regional SA, Orana (NSW), and Far North Queensland.
DAMA Visa offering immigration opportunities for skilled workers worldwide
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DAMA VISA AND OTHER VISA TYPES
Compared to other Australian immigration visas, the DAMA Visa boasts several notable advantages:
Granted to Skilled Workers Meeting Local Labor Needs
The DAMA Visa is designed to assist local regions in finding and attracting individuals with specific skills required to meet their labor demands. This enhances the economic strength and development of the area.
Expedited Processing Times
DAMA Visa processing times are typically faster than other visa types (taking approximately 6-9 months). This allows foreign workers to relocate to Australia and commence their new jobs quickly.
Renewal Options
DAMA Visa holders can apply for extensions to continue working and living in Australia, provided they meet the Australian government’s eligibility criteria.
Relatively Flexible Application Conditions
Certain conditions must be met for businesses seeking to access foreign labor, including having an Australian presence, having a long-term recruitment plan, and committing to support foreign employees settling in Australia. However, these moderate conditions make it relatively easy for businesses to apply for the DAMA Visa.
Occupation List Adjustments
The Australian government releases a list of priority occupations for recruitment each year through the DAMA Visa program. This benefits both employers, who can seek employees with skills from this list and propose them for approval, and workers with a wide range of career opportunities that align with their abilities.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After residing and working in Australia, DAMA Visa holders can apply for the 186 permanent residency visa three years after being granted the 482 visa.
Key Distinctions Between DAMA Visa and Other Visa Types
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR DAMA VISA
With its attractive benefits for workers and their families, the DAMA Visa has specific eligibility criteria:
Employment in a DAMA-Designated Area
The most crucial requirement for obtaining a DAMA Visa is working in an area covered by a DAMA Agreement signed with the Australian government.
Meeting Job Requirements
Applicants must apply for a specific job and meet its technical and professional requirements. This includes educational qualifications, work experience, and any relevant certifications in their field.
Meeting Health and Security Requirements
Applicants must undergo health and security checks conducted by the Australian government to ensure they pose no health or security risks to the Australian community or its citizens.
Meeting English Language Requirements
Some DAMAs may require applicants to achieve a certain level of English proficiency, typically a minimum of IELTS 4.5 for work permit applications and 5.0 for permanent residency applications or an equivalent score on the PTE exam. This ensures essential communication ability in the workplace and daily life in Australia.
Meeting Other DAMA-Specific Requirements
Each DAMA may have unique requirements, such as identifying a specific job team for an applicant meeting minimum work hours within the DAMA area or needing a diploma or higher education qualification.
CONCLUSION
The Australian DAMA Visa is a valuable tool for addressing labor shortages in local regions. If you’re considering moving to Australia to work and have the necessary skills to contribute to developing local areas, the DAMA Visa could be an excellent choice for you.
However, before applying for a visa, it’s essential to thoroughly research the requirements and conditions of each visa type to ensure you meet them. With nearly a decade of experience in Australian immigration and settlement, Kailian Specialist Service is the perfect partner to provide detailed advice and support regarding this visa category.