Modi flags concerns over 457 visa to Turnbull
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday conveyed to his Australian counterpart Malcolm Turnbull India’s concerns about the impact of the recent decision to abolish a popular work visa used by a majority of Indians. During a telephonic conversation, Modi flagged concerns about the “possible impact” of the recent changes in Australian visa regulations. The regulations are expected to hit 95,000 foreign workers, majority of them Indians.
The visa programme, known as 457 visa, allows businesses in Australia to employ foreign workers for a period up to four years in skilled jobs where there is a shortage of Australian workers. A government release said the two Prime Ministers agreed that officials from both sides will remain in “close touch on the issue”.
The new visa regulations came within days after Turnbull concluded his first official visit to India, where both countries signed several agreements to boost bilateral relations. “The two Prime Ministers also discussed the follow-up action taken after the visit of Mr. Turnbull to India last month, and the steps required to further strengthen the bilateral relationship,” the PMO statement said.
According to new regulations, applicants for Australian citizenship are now tested on their knowledge of law and national symbols such as the …read more
