A new visa under Subclass 408 is launched to help immigrants stuck in Australia due to restrictions imposed in the wake of COVID-19.
In total, there are 2.17 million temporary visa holders who are not able to depart due to the pandemic. The Australian government has introduced a new temporary visa that authenticates their stay in the country without breaching their existing visa conditions.
This is a move that has been lauded by temporary skilled workers and students all across the country. Another reason cited for this move is to supplement the shortage of essential workers who are required to run critical health infrastructure as well as other essential services.
Why has this new Temporary Visa been introduced now?
COVID-19 has disturbed the status quo of almost every country. Governments of all countries are struggling to keep systems afloat. This move has been introduced to help those who are in distress due to the legal ramifications of staying on foreign soil beyond their permitted stay.
The new visa (called a COVID-19 Visa) will allow those who are staying in Australia to stay on with a temporary visa, albeit under certain conditions.
Who is eligible to apply?
As per the Department of Home Affairs, only those visitors or immigrants whose visa is going to expire within the next 28 days can apply for this visa. In addition to this, this new temporary visa will also apply to the working holidaymakers employed in critical sectors.
When asked what comprised the critical sectors, the DoHA replied that anyone employed in Health, Aged, and Disabled care is said to be working in the critical sector. Added to this, Agriculture & Food Processing, and Childcare also come under the purview of the critical sector.
This temporary visa will also apply to anyone who is currently in the country on a temporary visa but is unable to return to their country. For example many Indian residents are stranded in Australia due to the closure of Indian borders.
However, it has also been stated that the DoHA will scrutinize each application on a case by case basis. Other things, including the individual’s country of origin and the circumstances, will also be taken into account.
Valid for 12 months:
The COVID-19 Visa will be valid for 12 months. Here too, it has been stated that this validity period is for those who come under the purview of the Pacific Labour Scheme and Seasonal Worker Schemes.
What is the Visa Fee?
Another sigh of relief is that this temporary visa will be free. The Australian government is taking these measures to attenuate the tension and ambiguity among the people who are unaware of their future situation.
Exclusive Work Rights:
As per the official statement under this Visa, work rights will only be forwarded to those who are working in the critical sectors. Again, this includes agriculture, health, aged, disability, and childcare. And these special work arrangements apply to the students who are working in supermarkets, provide assistance to Childcare and Care for the aged.
