(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – Australia will make it more difficult to gain citizenship in a major overhaul of its migration process.
Aspiring citizens will undergo tougher tests on their English language skills and ability to demonstrate “Australian values”, PM Malcolm Turnbull said.
Applicants must also have completed four years as a permanent resident – three years longer than at present.
The move comes two days after Australia unveiled stricter visa requirements for skilled workers from overseas.
Mr Turnbull said the changes would ensure that migrants were better integrated into the community.
“It is important that they understand that they are making a commitment to our Australian values,” he said.
