GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES FURTHER DETAILS ABOUT VISA APPLICATION CHARGE CHANGES, WAIVERS AND REFUNDS

The Australian government today announced further details about various changes to visa application charges, waivers and refunds related to people impacted by COVID-19, including the following statements:

Visitors

Visitor visa holders who are overseas and whose visas expired or will expire between March 2020 and December 2021 will be eligible for a waiver when they apply for a new visa.

Working holiday makers

Backpackers on Working Holiday Maker visas who have been unable to come to Australia or who had to leave Australia early due to COVID-19 will also be eligible for a waiver, when they decide to return to Australia.

Those who are unable to return because they have passed the age limit for a Working Holiday Maker visa will be able to claim a refund.

Seasonal Worker Program and Pacific Labour Scheme workers

Seasonal Worker Program and Pacific Labour Scheme visa holders will also be eligible for a refund of the VAC if they were granted a visa before 20 March 2020 and have been unable to travel to Australia due to COVID19

Temporary skilled workers

Due to travel restrictions there are many Temporary Skill Shortage and Temporary Work (Skilled) visa holders who have not made their initial entry to Australia, or have returned home due to COVID-19 and may wish to apply again.

To support local businesses that seek to access critical skills not available in the local labour workforce, the Government will offer a waiver of the VAC for subsequent applications by affected temporary employer sponsored skilled migrants.

Prospective Marriage visa holders

The Prospective Marriage visa provides holders with nine months to travel to Australia to marry an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

VAC refunds will be available for Prospective Marriage visa holders who have been unable to enter Australia before their visa expired, due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions.

Refunds will ensure these visa holders are able to apply for another visa to travel to Australia and hold their wedding once travel restrictions are lifted. For those visas that have already expired, any new application will be prioritised.

Visa extensions will be available for Prospective Marriage visa holders whose visas are still valid.

Source: Immigration Law News; Migration Law Training

If you require any more info or need assistance with any visa type please get in touch with me at info@radiantmigration.com.au or visit www.radiantmigration.com.au and contact me via Contact us page.

Roshani Joshi

Registered Migration Agent; MARN: 2015750

Director

Radiant Migration Australia Pty Ltd

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