General FAQ
Who can emigrate?
Which countries can I emigrate to?
Do immigration rules differ from one country to another?
Does that mean that some countries are easier to emigrate to?
Do I need a job before I can emigrate?
Does emigration guarantee me a job?
Can I change my career?
Can I start up a business?
Where can I get more information about migrating to Australia? (links to separate page)
Where can I get more information about migrating to Canada? (links to separate page)
Which countries can I emigrate to?
Do immigration rules differ from one country to another?
Does that mean that some countries are easier to emigrate to?
Do I need a job before I can emigrate?
Does emigration guarantee me a job?
Can I change my career?
Can I start up a business?
Where can I get more information about migrating to Australia? (links to separate page)
Where can I get more information about migrating to Canada? (links to separate page)
Which occupations are in demand?
How long does it take to emigrate?
Can I keep my existing citizenship after I have resettled in another country?
Do I need to have a lot of money to be able to emigrate?
What are the costs involved in emigrating?
Why would I use the services of a professional emigration specialist?
Where can I get more information about migrating to New Zealand? (links to separate page)
Where can I get more information about migrating to the USA (links to separate page)
How long does it take to emigrate?
Can I keep my existing citizenship after I have resettled in another country?
Do I need to have a lot of money to be able to emigrate?
What are the costs involved in emigrating?
Why would I use the services of a professional emigration specialist?
Where can I get more information about migrating to New Zealand? (links to separate page)
Where can I get more information about migrating to the USA (links to separate page)
Who can emigrate?
Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa and the USA generally encourage migrants who fall into the following categories:-
Family: people reuniting with family members.
Profession & Skills: people who are given permission to enter the country on the basis that they have qualifications and experience which are in particular demand. In some cases this is linked to a particular position of employment, but not in all cases.
Business: Entrepreneurs, experienced Executives or Self Employed people who are able to set up a business or make an investment in their new country.
Which countries can I emigrate to?
Most countries apply formal controls to the movement of people across their borders for political and social reasons. Some countries actively encourage controlled migration on the basis that an influx of skilled people is of benefit to the country. Four Corners provides services for migrants to Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA who all promote such policies.
Do immigration rules differ from one country to another?
Immigration policies are significantly different from one country to another. This reflects the differences in population, politics and economic circumstances in each country.
Does that mean that some countries are easier to emigrate to?
In general it is not fair to say that any particular country is easier to emigrate to. Each country's Immigration Policy is designed to target particular types of people. The criteria may be revised on a regular basis to reflect this.
James, a 24 year old Carpenter comfortably qualifies for Residence in Australia but would have difficulty qualifying for New Zealand.
Do I need a job before I can emigrate?
In most circumstances, securing a job offer in your destination country is not a pre-requisite to achieve Permanent Residency status. In many situations it can be very difficult to secure employment until the applicant has been granted Permanent Residence. For some people, an offer of employment will be a fundamental aspect of a residence application. It all depends on your circumstances.
Four Corners would advise potential migrants to assess their eligibility for residence before beginning a search for employment. An offer of employment on its own does not entitle you to a visa. Check your eligibility.
Does emigration guarantee me a job?
No, securing employment is the responsibility of the migrant, not the government. However, qualifying to emigrate in the first place is an indication that the government you are dealing with believe that you have the potential to establish a successful career.
Getting a job is, of course, one of the fundamental elements of the migration process and Four Corners will be pleased to provide assistance by introducing you to trusted specialists in your particular area. More info on employment overseas.
Can I change my career?
Moving into a new environment may provide opportunities for a change of direction. Your application for Permanent Residency will not usually restrict your choice of career.
Can I start up a business?
Yes, many migrants will set up a new business or become Self Employed. Certain incentives may apply depending on where you settle. If you are interested in setting up a business overseas, you may wish to consider applying for residence in one of the specialist business visa categories. To find out more about our business services click here.
Which occupations are in demand?
IT Professionals, Manufacturing Engineers and Managers, Electrical and Electronic Engineers and Technicians, Motor Vehicle Technicians and Diesel Mechanics, Civil Engineers, Surveyors, Cabinet Makers, Mechanical Engineers, CNC Programmers, Welders and Fabricators, Refrigeration Technicians, Teachers, Specialist Nurses and Healthcare Professionals, Chefs, Social Workers, Accountants, Linguists, Food Technologists.
This list is in no particular order and is by no means exhaustive. It simply represents the diversity of emigration opportunities that are available. Please note that the demand for particular skills varies with the country's economy and from one geographic region to another.
How long does it take to emigrate?
The application process varies considerably from one country to another - from a few weeks to a few years! You need to consider both the timescales to prepare and process your application, and the time available once you have been approved to actually relocate.
Can I keep my existing citizenship after I have resettled in another country?
Yes, becoming a Permanent Resident of another country does not usually require you to surrender your existing passport. However, for some countries, becoming a full citizen can require you to relinquish any original citizenships. We would suggest you discuss your individual circumstances with your professional advisor.
Do I need to have a lot of money to be able to emigrate?
This is not usually the case. When your application for residence is assessed, one factor that the government may consider is the amount of capital that you have available. Many people who are successful in applying for Permanent Residency have modest financial resources. However, you do need to take into account the costs associated with the practical side of emigrating.
What are the costs involved in emigrating?
The costs vary considerably depending on your destination and the nature of your application. Migrants need to account for the following:
- Government application and immigration fees.
- Transport and removal costs.
- Fees to any professional advisors.
- On occasions, employers may provide some assistance with resettlement costs.
Why would I use the services of a professional emigration specialist?
Millions of people apply for the right to live and work in another country every year, but very few receive the opportunity. Immigration systems can be complex and bureaucratic and the policies and procedures are constantly changing. Expert advice in the preparation of immigration applications is essential. Once you have the right to move to another country you still have a lot to think about: employment, travel, accommodation, banking, pensions, schools. Experienced advice can ensure you avoid costly mistakes and ensures that everything runs smoothly.
Using a registered agent gives you added assurance, as they are bound by a code of conduct that makes them answerable to the professional immigration bodies.
