Australia to Ease the Path to PR for Temporary Migration Workers: A Comprehensive Analysis

Australia has long been an attractive destination for migrants. Its advanced economy, high standard of living, and diverse cultural environment have drawn professionals and families from across the globe. Recently, the Australian government has further eased the path to permanent residence (PR) for temporary migration workers, which is an important and welcome move for migrants in this country. In the year 2024-2025, the Australian government plans to grant 1,85,000 PRs, out of which about 70% PRs will be given to people in the skilled worker category. In this article, we will take a deep look at various aspects of this new policy, its impact, and other related information.

PR for Temporary Migration Workers: A New Path

Australia has announced to ease the process of PR for temporary migration workers in its immigration program. Temporary workers, who until now could only work in Australia for a limited period of time, will now have the opportunity to settle here permanently. The move is a part of the Australian government’s Skilled Migration Strategy, which aims to address the skills shortage required in the country.

1. Number and distribution of PR:

• 1,85,000 PR in 2024-2025: Australia plans to grant 1,85,000 PR this financial year, which is more than in previous years. The move is an indication that Australia wants to strengthen its skilled workforce and give temporary workers the opportunity to settle permanently.
• Skilled Worker Category: About 70% of the PRs in this scheme will be given under the Skilled Worker category. This will include professionals working in engineering, IT, health, education, and other important sectors. It aims to address the skills shortage in the country and promote economic growth.
• Family Stream: About 30% of PRs will fall under the family stream, which includes partners and children of Australian PR holders. This scheme will help migrants who want to settle here permanently with their families.

2. New PR route for temporary workers:

• New route: The Australian government has introduced a new PR route for temporary workers, which allows them to easily join the process of permanent residence. This will benefit workers who could previously work only on temporary visas and had to face a complex process for permanent residence.

• Skills recognition: Under this new route, temporary workers will be prioritized based on their work experience and skills. This will ensure workers that their skills and experience will be evaluated correctly and they will be able to get PR easily.

• Simplification of process: Under this scheme, the PR application process has also been simplified. Under this, temporary workers will not have to wait for a long time and will be able to get permanent residence faster.

Reduction in PR in Skilled Independent Visa, BIIP Visa, and Global Talent category

The Australian government has reduced the number of PR in the Skilled Independent Visa, Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) Visa, and Global Talent category. The move is part of a shift in which the government is focusing more on sectors that can meet the country’s economic and social needs.

1. Skilled Independent Visa:

• Reduction in number: The number of PR under the Skilled Independent Visa has been reduced, which means that professionals falling in this category will now face more competition. The government’s focus is now on workers who are in line with Australia’s requirements and who can be moved from temporary visa to permanent residence.
• Changes in the application process: Along with this, some changes have also been made in the application process of Skilled Independent Visa, to ensure that only the highest quality applicants are selected.

2. Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) Visa:

• Reduced number of PRs: The number of PRs under the BIIP visa has also been reduced. This program mainly targets migrants who want to start or invest in a business in Australia. However, the government is now focusing more on migrants who come with the necessary skills and professional experience.
• New guidelines: New guidelines have been issued for the BIIP visa to ensure that only those migrants are eligible for this visa who can meet Australia’s economic requirements.

3. Global Talent Category:

• Reduction in Global Talent Visa: The number of PRs in the Global Talent category has also been reduced. This visa category was aimed at bringing high-talent professionals from around the world to Australia. However, the government is now focusing more on temporary workers who are already employed in the country and giving them priority for permanent residency.
• Selection of high-talent professionals: The government is now selecting only those professionals under the Global Talent Visa who come with highly-required skills and experience and who can meet the requirements of the country.

Changes in Australia’s Immigration Program: A Holistic View

Australia’s immigration program has always been changing in line with the country’s economic and social needs. The recent changes are important steps taken in this direction, aimed at attracting skilled professionals to the country and providing them with an opportunity to settle permanently.

1. Increasing opportunities for temporary workers:

• The decision to ease the PR path for temporary workers is a significant opportunity for workers who have been working in Australia for a long time and want to settle here permanently. This move will encourage workers who are already contributing to the country’s economy and will fulfill their dream of permanent residence.
• This will also fill the skills shortage in Australia, as more and more skilled professionals will now be able to settle here permanently.

2. Focus on skilled workers:

• Australia’s immigration program is now focused on attracting more and more skilled workers. The government believes that skilled professionals are needed for the country’s economic growth and development, and hence has decided to grant more PR in the skilled worker category.
• The move in this direction will lead to the development of new technologies, innovations, and advanced skills in Australia, thereby increasing the country’s competitiveness.

3. Increasing opportunities under the family stream:

• The decision to grant PR under the family stream will be a relief for immigrants who want to settle in Australia with their families. This will not only strengthen family units but will also promote social unity and stability in the country.