Nepal Emerges as a Leading Contributor to Australia’s Permanent Migrant Population

In an impressive testament to its growing diaspora, Nepal has emerged as the fourth largest source of permanent migrants to Australia for the year 2022–23. This remarkable achievement places the Himalayan nation just behind population giants India, the People’s Republic of China, and the Philippines. 

According to the latest statistics released by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, Nepal secured its position as a major contributor to Australia’s permanent migrant intake. The report underscores the significant demographic shift and increasing diversity within Australia's multicultural landscape. 

The Ascent of Nepalese Migration

Despite its relatively modest population of approximately 30 million, Nepal’s rise to the fourth position in the list of countries providing permanent migrants to Australia is noteworthy. The Nepalese community in Australia has been growing steadily over the past decade, driven by various factors including educational opportunities, economic prospects, and the robust bilateral relations between the two countries.

At the end of June 2022, 151,140 Nepalese-born people were living in Australia, almost five times the number (30,730) at June 30, 2012. This makes the Nepalese community the tenth largest migrant group in Australia, equivalent to 2.0 percent of Australia's overseas-born population and 0.6 percent of Australia's total population.

Demographic Insights

For Australia's Nepalese-born migrants, the median age of 28.6 years was significantly below that of the general population by 9.9 years. Additionally, males outnumbered females in this community, comprising 55.4 percent compared to 44.6 percent. 

Educational and Economic Factors

One of the primary drivers behind the surge in Nepalese migrants is the pursuit of higher education. Australia’s world-renowned universities and educational institutions have been a magnet for Nepalese students, many of whom choose to settle permanently after completing their studies. The post-study work options and the pathways to permanent residency offered by Australia are particularly attractive.

Australia also provides better opportunities for students to secure sponsorships, especially since each state has a specific skilled occupation list outlining the professions it needs. This targeted approach gives students a better chance to align their education with the demands of the Australian labour market, enhancing their prospects of obtaining permanent residency.

Economically, the prospects in Australia provide a significant pull factor. Many Nepalese migrants have found employment in sectors such as healthcare, information technology, and hospitality. The demand for skilled workers in these industries aligns well with the qualifications and expertise of Nepalese migrants, facilitating their integration into the Australian workforce.

Permanent Migration Pathways

Australia’s permanent Migration Program, which incorporates economic and family migration, serves as the main pathway to permanent residence. It includes the Skill stream, Family stream, and Special Eligibility visas. The Skill stream is designed for workers who possess the skills, qualifications, and entrepreneurship most needed in the Australian economy, encompassing various categories such as Business Innovation and Investment, Distinguished Talent, Employer Sponsored, Global Talent (Independent), Regional, Skilled Independent, and State/Territory Nominated visas.

The Family stream facilitates the permanent migration of close family members of Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens, primarily focusing on partners and parents, but also accommodating additional family members.

Migration Statistics

The following table shows the size of permanent migration from Nepal by migration category from 2019–20 to 2022–23: