The visa procedure for Australia has been the main reason recently for the reduced number of immigrants. The stricter rules along with other criteria have made it difficult for the applicants to qualify.

Simplified Immigration System

Keeping the above in mind, the Government of Australia has suggested a new system which is much simpler when compared to the present system. This system has been proposed for the Australian Work Visas.

The proposal was brought out by Chris Bowen, the Immigration Minister for Australia and Senator Nick Sherry. This proposal is intended to bring down the number of employment-based visas to Australia. This would be done so as to streamline the system more effectively.

Reduced Number of Visas

As of now, there are 18 separate categories under the Short Term Working Visas. If the proposed changes are implemented, this number would be reduced to half making it only for 9 categories.

Proposed Amendments

The changes which intend to amend the visa category include the following:

• Short Stay Activity Visa: This category would constitute of the Short Stay Business visa, Documentary & Commercial visa and the Short Stay Business visa.
• Sponsored Long Stay Activity Visa: This section would comprise of the Exchange, Sport and Religious visas.
• Training and Research Visa: These include those of Professional Development, Visiting Academic, Occupational Trainee and Sports Trainees.
• International Relations Visa: This caters to Service Sellers visas, Government Agreement, Immunities and Privileges, Government Agency, Domestic Worker – Diplomatic Consular.
• Business (Long Stay) Visa: These include Journalist visas, Business (Long Stay) and Domestic Worker – Executive.
• Entertainment Visas: This comprises of visas for the Media and Film staff.

Streamlined System

According to Senator Sherry, these intended changes are being brought about to make the system more streamlined. He also said that this would lead to simplification of the process further. Other similar rules and regulations would be simplified and standardized. All those regulations which are found to be not in need would be removed.

As per Chris Bowen, the Immigration Minister for Australia, the nest step would be keep this proposal open for the consultation of the public before it is settled. This would be based on response which would be on the latest discussion paper that would be brought out. 4th February 2010 is the last date for this feedback to be received.