i'm ready to decide about visa applications now (got my registration sorted in oz and hence my skills assessment) so would appreciate a few answers from members and a big thank you in advance.

i could apply for a 175 (occupation is one the MODL list but not the CSL list) but the time involved in this is daunting so i am considering an employer sponsored visa (is this a 457?). How quick are these and once i'm working over there is it difficult to change employer.

i understand with the 175 that you get permanent residence straight away, how long do you have to wait for it with the 457 and critically what benefits do you get with the 457 (medicare?)

i also heard that if you're not a permanent resident (175) then you can't buy an old house, it has to be a new one, is this true?

if you have a 457, can you apply for a 175 while you're over there?

sorry for all the questions, hopefully there's someone that can answer them for me

thanks again

grant