AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRATION NEWS

More Irish Apply for Australian Visas

Wednesday, October 05, 2011

There has been an increase in the number of Australian working holiday visas granted to Irish nationals, according to immigration authorities.

Statistics from the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) indicate that the number of Irish people granted Australian visas doubled within one year from June 2010 to June 2011.

Mr Rodney Harrex, General Manager of Tourism Australia (UK & Northern Europe) also acknowledged the rise in Irish immigration to Australia and expressed his desire to attract more Irish visitors to Australia.

"Ireland has become a Tier 2 market having been elevated from Tier 3, with some very powerful indicators coming out with good emerging segments, much more than working holiday visa holders right through to older travellers and we are now spending AUD $1 million in Ireland, up from $100K".

The dramatic spike in the number of Irish citizens applying for Australian visas can partly be attributed to the Rugby World Cup taking place in New Zealand this month. The Irish Times said that the Irish in Australia were making up the numbers and travelling across the Tasman Sea to cheer on Ireland's most successful odyssey to date in the World Cup.

The Irish Times revealed that Australia is a popular destination for the Irish, quoting "Australia remains a magnet for the Irish, particularly young Irish people."

If you are interested in Australian visas , contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try its visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Australia.