Increasing Age of Immigration

Immigration Lawyer Sydney

An odd and overlooked aspect of the Covid-19 lockdown Era is how the average age of immigrants increased. This is very unusual. In fact, it has never before occurred in the history of the country.

So how does this happen?

Up until 2019, the immigration intake into Australia has kept the average age of people in the country slightly lower. This was simply because the incoming immigrants tended to be slightly younger than average, with at least some Visas setting an age limit of about 44. This abruptly changed from 2018 to 2019.

In 2019 the number of over 65 immigrants entering the country increased from 2 500 to 17 000. The number of immigrants between 60 and 64 increased from around 2 000 to 13 000.

By September 2021 there were 13 000 temporary entrants to Australia applying for Permanent Parent Visas. They held bridging Visas while waiting on the results of their permanent Visa applications. These people can neither work nor access Medicare. This will mean increasing debt for the various state governments as the elderly immigrants use hospitals and other medical services.

There was a Temporary Parent Visa introduced in 2019. This allowed Australian citizens or permanent residents to bring their parents to Australia for up to two years. These often elderly parents were not required to pass health or character tests. However, they were at least permitted to work.

This visa, which had an application fee of $31 980, never proved popular. Less than 3000 individuals obtained the Visa in 2019. Instead, elderly parents immigrate long-term on other (less expensive) visa programs.

The increase in elderly immigrants who cannot contribute to the economy (as their Visas do not allow it) is an issue. This situation might be helped if the goal of the 2019 Permanent Parent Visa was achieved – bringing in older people who can contribute to the economy by working. The problem is this Visa is extremely expensive, and there is no guarantee that the individuals are healthy enough to actually hold a job.

The position of the government parties on this is not clear. It should be an issue in the May Federal election.

Immigration Lawyer Sydney

The immigration situation is constantly changing. An immigration lawyer offers the best chance of legal entry.

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