With international borders being closed for almost two years and visa processing at a standstill during that time, it’s not surprising that there is currently a backlog of pending visa applications.
While visa processing has recommenced, priority has been given to those with an urgent need to travel, non-citizens with compelling and compassionate circumstances and those with critical skills required to maintain the supply of essential goods and services.
In early March, Immigration Minister Alex Hawke said the government had witnessed a surge in demand from backpackers wanting to come to Australia and that they would be more than welcome to visit our shores. The last two years have seen jobs ordinarily filled by backpackers and international students remain vacant and with more jobs available now than prior to the pandemic, the government is keen to welcome back working holiday makers. To make this happen their visas are being processed very quickly.
While this can be seen as a good thing for Australia’s Migration Program numbers and businesses relying on working holiday makers, not everyone is happy about it.
What about the skilled migrants awaiting permanent residence?
While the government rejoices in the demand from working holiday makers, some skilled migrants aren’t so happy. Many onshore and offshore migrants have been waiting on their permanent residency for at least two years, many having started the application process well before the Covid-19 pandemic. The prioritising of other visas will only increase their visa processing wait times.
For skilled migrants living in Australia, not having permanent residence has made things difficult. Many of these applicants are unable to work in their field of expertise as many employers prefer to employ those with permanent resident status. There is also the issue of travel rights. For many, their current visas do not allow them to leave Australia and then return so they have been unable to visit family overseas since arriving in Australia.
The situation for skilled migrants offshore and awaiting their visa approvals is not much different with some having started the visa application process as far back as 2018. Many of these applicants are still waiting for an outcome.
With limited resources and a backlog of applications, the Department of Home Affairs is directing resources to applications from travellers exempt from travel restrictions. These include:
– Immediate family members and parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents
– Eligible visa holders (skilled, student, humanitarian, working visa holders and provisional family visa holders)
– Applicants of the Priority Migration Skilled Application List (PMSOL)
– Those working in sectors critical to Australia’s economic recovery, where no Australian worker is available
While the whole situation is frustrating, for many not getting a clear answer on visa processing times has proven more annoying. Those awaiting their visas just want some transparency and answers on how long they have to wait.
There are many pathways to permanent residence. If you would like to learn more about how you can obtain permanent residence in Australia or any other aspect of migration, contact Visa Solutions on 1800 828 008 or send us an email.
