The Journey of British Immigrants to Australia, Canada, and New Zealand: Legal and Historical Perspectives
In the 20th and 21st centuries, British citizens faced unique challenges and processes when seeking to migrate to Australia, Canada, or New Zealand. These challenges were largely governed by rigorous immigration policies designed to control the influx of individuals based on criteria such as skills, criminal records, and social behavior.
Tight Barriers and Rude Behavior: The Initial Test for UK Residents
One anecdotal account describes a testing process used by Australian immigration authorities. Anyone wishing to leave the UK for these destinations was initially subjected to a series of questions and tests to determine their suitability. The first involved queuing; those who pushed into the queue were seen as rude and possibly unpolite, leading to their redirection to Canada, where only well-mannered and courteous individuals were permitted. The second test involved interacting with animals. Those who preferred sheep were redirected to New Zealand, as this agricultural connection was seen as appropriate.
Migration Control and Legal Dilemmas
Like many immigrants, the narrator of these anecdotes eventually found their way to Australia in 1987 for a working holiday. While skilled and working lawfully, attempts to extend their visa were unsuccessful due to immigration policies. The individual’s friend, a bricklayer, faced similar barriers but chose to remain illegally, turning himself over to the dominant narrative of irregular migration.
Historical Context of British Immigration: From Penal Colonies to Modern Borders
Historically, British migration to these regions has been shaped by significant events and policies. Australia, for instance, was a destination for penal colonies, where convicts were sent as punishment for serious crimes after being transported on prison ships. Over time, some convicts chose to stay, while others worked in penal colonies as staff. Canada and New Zealand also saw similar historical movements, with early settlers being explorers, adventurers, and those seeking freedom and new opportunities. Criminals were also transported to Canada and the United States, as well as to penal colonies in Australia.
Modern Migration Patterns: Skill-Based vs. Irregular Entry
In the modern era, the pathways to migration have evolved significantly. The narrator of the anecdote provides a contemporary example where a skilled worker, a time-served aircraft gas turbine fitter, struggled to gain entry due to a point system that did not adequately account for his experience. In contrast, his wife, a fully trained hairdresser, succeeded in meeting the criteria and the pair emigrated together on her visa.
These examples illustrate the complex and often challenging journey of British immigrants to these destinations. While historical patterns like penal transportation are now supplanted by more refined selection processes, the underlying themes of skill, behavior, and opportunity remain significant.
For individuals considering migration in the modern context, it is crucial to understand the current policies and the points-based system in place. This ensures a smoother and more permissible entry into their chosen destination. If historical patterns are any indicator, those who can adapt to these changing systems are more likely to achieve their goals.