Irish told to fast-track Australian visas ahead of immigration reforms
Up to now, permanent residency visas have been automatically processed in Ireland for anyone who meets the criteria.
However, from July, a new system will mean applicants who want to move to Australia will not be able to lodge visa applications until they receive an invitation from the nation’s government. The move is part of an initiative to select the best and brightest migrants.
It has already sparked panic among would-be Irish emigrants, who are rushing to get visas processed in Ireland before July’s deadline.
Edwina Shanahan of Visa First, which processes visas to over 100 countries, said that applications for permanent residency and employer-sponsored visas had risen by 60% since 2009.
“The way you apply for a visa will change. From July, applicants will be entered into a skills pool and you can only apply for a permanent visa if you receive an invitation from [Australian] immigration. You won’t be able to lodge a visa application until you receive an invitation.
“They will select those who scored the highest number of points, for criteria like age, occupation and work experience. We’ve noticed a significant rise in the numbers of applicants trying to receive visas before July.”
Australia, one of the few states to escape the worst of the financial crisis, is a magnet for tens of thousands of Irish emigrants.
It has a low unemployment rate and requires tens of thousands more skilled migrants, particularly in specialist fields like medicine, nursing, engineering and construction.
Ms Shanahan said the Irish were still in demand by Australian employers.
“We settle well into the workforce over there and when we land we hit the ground running and are ready to work that week. Irish people are well accepted in Australia.
“Last year we noticed a big rise in the number of families moving, rather than previously when it was individuals going out on their own.”
