Visa approved!

[johnco]

Wow, these things really do get approved eventually! I'll be taking off for Oz sometime in the next two weeks.

What will my Customs experience be like when entering the country? Will I have to declare each and every thing in my two suitcases and my carry-ons? Is there a value limit on what I bring in? It's a lot of stuff, since that's all I'm taking with me... everything else is being shipped!

Thanks all!

John

[kaz101]

Congratulations John!

It's always so good to hear!

For bringing anything into Australia check out the quarantine guide since they are strict:
Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service - DAFF
Entering Australia - DAFF
Travellers

Regards,
Karen

[amaslam]

Generally if in doubt, declare it. Unless it's a really big no-no (i.e. eggs or plants) they'll normally let it through after a quick look over.

I think there is a value limit, but this is normally for 'new' stuff. If you've owned it for a few months it's no longer new and not necessarily considered in a valuation.
Also if you're coming over a migrant they know you have lots of stuff and aren't bringing in stuff to try and sell it.

I bring in new stuff all the time and only one time (when I brought in some new and expensive SCUBA gear) did they charge me (about $80). Otherwise if it's DVDs and such they don't really value it.

I've found going through customs is usually quick (2-5 mins).

Originally Posted by johnco

Wow, these things really do get approved eventually! I'll be taking off for Oz sometime in the next two weeks.

What will my Customs experience be like when entering the country? Will I have to declare each and every thing in my two suitcases and my carry-ons? Is there a value limit on what I bring in? It's a lot of stuff, since that's all I'm taking with me... everything else is being shipped!

Thanks all!

John

[Dolly]

!!!CONGRATULATIONS!!!

It's a fantastic feeling, isn't it!

With regard to customs, as long as you haven't got any food (as in a half-eaten sandwich!), anything wooden or with feathers then you'll be OK.

We always packed things like HP sauce (about 6 bottles!), prawn cocktail crisps and gravy powder - we declared it and it was fine. If you don't declare it and they find it, you'll be in trouble.

If you've packed any electrical goods that look really new (like an iPod or MP3 player) try to take the receipt with you or they might try to get you to pay tax on it.

For us, customs has always taken about 30 minutes.

All the best for your new life here in Australia,
Dolly

[johnco]

Thanks everyone! It's a great feeling to have the application process behind me, and be nearly ready to step on the plane. I appreciate the advice on what to take and not to take, and the pointers to the online resources. I did just get a new laptop, so I'll make sure to bring the receipt for that.

John

[anj1976]

congratulations.. do let us know how it goes once you reach.
wish u luck, u need it more than ever.

[aussieland]

Hi John,

Congrats for making it thru.
I travelled to Australia on 457 visa and my experience with customs was very nice.
I was done in very little time.
Just a piece of advice:do follow the guideline and when in doubt enquire.
Rest all u have been suggested above in the thread.

Pankaj