Australian Immigration Minister Proposes Changes in 457 Visa Scheme

Australian Immigration Minister, Scott Morrison, has proposed some reforms to the existing 457 Visa Scheme. 457 Visa is a temporary work visa. It allows skilled workers to work in Australia on an approved business plan or under a nominated occupation for a period of 4 years.

The news is that Mr. Morrison has reportedly made some suggestions to ease 457 process, reduce the requirements to half, and fast track the entire system. For instance, language requirements would be simplified to ensure a larger number of skilled workers can make it to Australia on 457 Visa.

In the year 2012 - 2013 alone, Australia has issued over 100,000 457 visas to construction workers, healthcare, food services, and IT professionals. Indians were the largest beneficiaries of this visa, closely followed by UK and Ireland.

The minister also announced that a temporary project will be introduced.  He also assured that the jobs of Australian people are not and will not be at risk because of any such changes.

Source:  Yahoo and The Guardian

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