The ABC has provided the following information on concessions being made for temporary visa holders impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
Important: this information is based media statements made by politicians (only) at this stage and that the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) will still need to work to make the processes operational and confirm all details.
Working Holiday Makers (Subclass 417 Visa and Subclass 462 Visa)
- Will be allowed to extend their stays in Australia
- Must be working in agriculture, health or aged care only
- Waiver of ‘six month with one employer’ rule
- Will need to self-isolate if moving to a new region
Skilled Visa Holders
- Able to withdraw $10,000 from superannuation for this financial year
- Skilled visa holders stood down, but not laid off, will be able to have visas extended
- Businesses can reduce skilled visa holders working hours without breaching sponsorship obligations
- Time already spent in Australia prior to COVID pandemic will be counted towards permanent residency requirements.
Seasonal Pacific Islander Workers
- Will be allowed to extend their stays in Australia
- Must be working in agriculture, health or aged care only
- Waiver of ‘six month with one employer’ rule
- Will need to self-isolate if moving to a new region
International Students
- Encouraged to rely on family support, part-time work and their own savings
- Able to withdraw $10,000 from superannuation for this financial year
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