Government plans to strengthen immigration enforcement to target overstayers and illegal residents

Aug 16, Kathmandu - In response to mounting political pressure to curb the increasing migrant population, the Australian government is set to implement stricter immigration policies. The move comes as authorities intensify surveillance and enforcement against foreigners who remain in the country beyond their visa expiration dates.

Specifically, the government aims to identify and take action against former students and temporary workers who have overstayed their visas, with plans to conduct targeted investigations and facilitate their removal if necessary. Home Minister Tony Burke announced in an interview with a local newspaper that these measures are part of a broader strategy to control rising immigration levels.

Previously, Australia had adopted a relatively lenient approach towards undocumented workers, but the current government, led by the Labor Party, has shifted towards a tougher stance amid opposition criticism of lax immigration policies.

The government intends to make enforcement more effective by utilizing government data, intelligence, and immigration investigations to identify overstayers. Instead of large-scale crackdowns, targeted operations will focus on identifying and arresting individuals who have overstayed their visas.

Additionally, the government plans to encourage voluntary departures of those residing illegally and to pursue legal actions where necessary. There will also be increased restrictions on temporary visa holders who seek asylum or have had their claims rejected, aiming to prevent prolonged stay through legal appeals.

Recently, it was revealed that over a thousand Nepali nationals have been stuck in Australia due to visa issues related to student visas. The government has been tightening policies on international students, including those who extend their stay beyond the completion of their studies.

Industry leaders have expressed concerns over these stricter measures, warning that a significant reduction in migrant workers could lead to labor shortages across various sectors, exacerbating existing challenges in the job market.