According to recent news, it has been confirmed that the phase 3 of the Student Tier 4 of the PBS will commence from 5th October 2009. The news has been affirmed by the UK Border Agency (UKBA).

Phase 3 is voluntary trail phase of the sponsorship management system for those educational institutions that have intentions of sponsoring students who are planning to study in the UK. These sponsors are characterized as Tier 4 sponsors.

During the mentioned trial period, these sponsors can continue to issue visa letters. It has been believed that amid this trial phase, the Tier 4 sponsors would issue “confirmations of acceptance for studies” to those applying to study in the UK at a gradual pace.
In another announcement by UKBA, it has been stated that till January 2010, those applying from within the UK are only required to show that they are eligible to meet the essential requirements of the course fee and maintenance requirements.
Also, from 1 October 2009, it has become mandatory for all those who are planning to study in the UK but are applying from outside the UK to show the availability of ample bank balance for the course fee and meet the maintenance requirements.

Some other announcements include:

• From 5 October 2009, Students can only study at those education providers that sponsor them.
• It is not required to make a Tier 4 Visa application for all those who are planning to change sponsor and who last applied before 5 October 2009. In any of the cases, it is essential to take permission from UKBA.
• Till February 2010, all those applicants who are planning to study in the UK from outside the UK would require visa letters instead of confirmations of acceptance for studies.

These are some of the recent announcements made by UKBA. For more info on the Immigration guidelines, take advice from an Immigration and Visa expert today!

In order to avail the Skilled – Sponsored Visa, you must get a sponsorship by a relative residing in Australia or have a nomination by a state or territory government (you will receive an additional 10 points). In addition, the applicant needs to meet the pass mark of 100, along with other formal requirements.

Some of the essential requirements are:

• The age of the applicant should be below 45 at the time of lodgement.
• It is vital to have a positive skill assessment and a proof of the same must be produced at the time of lodgement (in case of offshore applicants)
• As an International student, you have to show a proof that you have applied for your skill assessment and have undergone a medical and character check.
• Other requires include showing a competency in English language and having Vocational English if nominating a trade profession. Also, providing an evidence of English is a necessary facet of the application process.
• Family members aged 18 or above must show Functional English.
• Offshore applicants must show a work experience in skilled employment for at least one year of the last two years before filing the application.
• International students who are planning to study in Australia must fulfill the 2 year study requirement, in addition to other mandates. Also, it is critical to have a Skilled Graduate Visa.

Sponsorship: The applicant can get a sponsorship from an Australian citizen, sponsor having a PR status or an eligible NZ Citizen. Family members who are eligible for providing sponsorship are Siblings, Parent, Non-dependent child, Uncle or Aunt, Nephew or Niece. In addition to the above list, you can get sponsorship from your spouse’s relative also. Half- and step-relatives can provide you with a sponsorship too.

To know more on the visa criteria and about your eligibility criteria, take assistance from an Immigration and Visa consultant near you.