Over 21,000 Irish citizens were granted Australian working holiday visas in the 12 months leading up to July last year, marking the highest recorded figures in at least 16 years, according to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
The figures show that a total of 21,525 visas were granted to Irish citizens for a period between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, nearly double the number registered in the previous year. During the peak of the recession in 2008, only 12,847 visas were granted. Travel experts predict even more visas will be given this year, with higher salaries and a better standard of living attracting many young people to go to Australia.
In the past five years, emigration has been notably increasing in Ireland, with more than 11,077 visas granted for a period between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019. Despite a slight decrease in visa approvals during the pandemic, travel experts expect a further increase in applications this year.
Visa First’s business development manager, Nune Troy, said that the number of Irish people heading to Australia could increase by at least another 30 per cent this year. She added that there had been a significant increase in applications, and they expect even more this year.
Troy also noted that Australia relaxed its visa regulations in 2022, allowing Irish citizens up to 35 years of age to apply for a working holiday visa, whereas before, the maximum age was 30.
The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is created for young adults who plan to vacation and work in Australia for a maximum of three years. It promotes cultural exchange and strengthens connections between Australia and eligible countries. Interested individuals are eligible to apply for three Working Holiday visas, each permitting a 12-month stay.
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