Australia is one of the biggest immigrant-hosting countries. In fact, more than a quarter of the country’s population was born overseas. In recent times, however, there has been a significant shift in Australian immigration practice.
While some people laud the changes as necessary, they still have a negative impact on new and potential immigrants. If you are planning to immigrate to Australia, therefore, it is important to be aware of the challenges that are likely to accost you and how to overcome them.
Proficiency in English Language
Australia is an English-speaking country. One of the current requirements for permission to settle in the country is ability to express yourself in English as well as possession of civic knowledge. It is, thus, important for you to find a way of fulfilling the two requirements before applying for a visa.
Clean Criminal Record
You are not likely to be granted Australian citizenship if you have ever been involved in any form of crime. Before you are allowed to move to the country, background checks will be conducted on you. You will also be required to declare your citizenship and express your readiness to respect diversity and share a common bond and identity.
Possession of Skills
In the past, immigration to Australia was largely driven by the need to populate the country. In current times, however, there is no longer the need for higher population — even if there is, it is not urgent. With more babies born by past immigrants and original settlers, there is already a sizeable population in the country. What is needed today is closing the gap in the labor market. Therefore, you stand a better chance of gaining citizenship if you are immigrating to Australia to work rather than settle in the country.
Bottom-line
With the biggest number of immigrants, Australia is one of the most welcoming countries in the world. Changes in the immigration policy, however, threatens to shut out potential immigrants who would have had no trouble moving into the country a few years ago. There are concerns about congestion, use of infrastructure and rising prices of housing. In other words, some quotas are not comfortable with the large number of people moving into the country. Therefore, the current Australia immigration practice comes with more restrictions for immigrants. By being aware of them, you will be well prepared to counter them. Alternatively, seek the services of an Australian immigration agency for a professional guide on what to expect and how to prepare before applying for a visa or moving to the country.
