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“Na so I dey look flight ticket and think say na film trick,” James Adeshola Chukwudi says with a nostalgic smile. Now based in Sydney, Australia, James has become a voice of experience for many Nigerians aspiring to start a new life Down Under — either for studies, work, or both.
In this post, James walks us through everything he learned (sometimes the hard way) about migrating to Australia.
🎓 Migrating to Australia for Study: James’ Uni Hustle
James started his journey by applying for a student visa (subclass 500). He breaks it down:
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Choose a Recognised Institution: “I applied to three universities — University of Sydney, Macquarie, and UNSW. Always make sure the school is CRICOS registered.”
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Pass English Requirements: “Even wen we sabi English, dem still wan IELTS. I scored 7.5. You can also use TOEFL or PTE.”
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Show Proof of Funds: “Dem wan see say you fit pay tuition, living expenses, and flight. I used my uncle’s bank statement and an official sponsor letter.”
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Get Overseas Health Cover (OSHC): “It’s compulsory. Some schools include it in the fees.”
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Apply for Visa Subclass 500: “I submitted my Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), passport, bank statements, statement of purpose, and medicals.”
🧳 Moving for Work: James on Skilled Migration
After his studies, James applied for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) — which allows international students to stay and work.
Then he looked into:
✅ Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
✅ Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
✅ Employer Sponsored Visas (subclass 482 or 186)
“If your profession dey on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List and you get good English and work experience — na chance be that.”
📋 James’ Suggestions: Other Legal Pathways
Not everyone wants to school first. James suggests:
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Work Holiday Visa (age 18–30)
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Regional Sponsored Migration (move to less crowded areas)
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Partner/Family Visa (if your partner or sibling is PR or citizen)
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Global Talent Visa (for techies and innovators)
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Trade Qualifications (plumbers, electricians, etc.)
🌍 Key Resources:
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Australian Immigration: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
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Check Skilled Occupation List: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/skill-occupation-list
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Find a course: https://cricos.education.gov.au
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Visa options: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder
💬 Final Words from James:
“My people, the journey no easy, but it’s possible. If you get legit plan, strong documents, and correct attitude, na just time remain.”
