As regular readers of this and my other posts will know the Australian Government introduced a new visa to assist with the COVID-19 pandemic on 4 April 2020: the Subclass 408, it allows foreign nationals who have temporary residence status to continue remaining in Australia because of the Covid-19 situation. The main requirements are:
- the person is physically in Australia;
- will assist with addressing workforce shortages in areas such as agriculture, aged care and public health; and
- unable to depart because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This application should be made within 28 days or less of the current visa expiring. There is no visa fee charge.
Subclass 482 or 457 visas and their working hours
Also note that the Department of Home Affairs has indicated that sponsored employees will be able to be stood down and not be in breach of their visa conditions. DHA has also indicated that sponsors will be able to reduce working hours (no limit has been set) without them or visa holders breaching their obligations.
Superannuation payments for temporary visas – examples include student, working holiday
Those on temporary visas have been encouraged by the government to seek the support of family members and rely on savings. The government has also suggested those who have been here for more than 12 months will be able to draw on their superannuation contributions but this is something individuals should query further with their superannuation provider.
Student visa work hours
On 7 March, the government allowed international students working for major supermarkets to work past their 40 hour a fortnight restriction.
International students working in the aged care and nursing industries will continue to have unrestricted work rights during this period.
Working Holiday Visa holders (WHV) employed in the agriculture, health, disability care, childcare, aged care or supermarket industry
WHV are limited to working with an employer for a maximum of six months. During this pandemic, those employed in the agriculture, health, aged, disability and childcare industries will be exempt from the six-month work limitation.
So if your visa is about to expire or anyone you know anyone whose Visa is about to “run out” contact us to discuss your options. Remember TRUST ONLY a Master Migration Lawyer and make an appointment with AR LAW Services: Master Migration Lawyer.
Call 03 9614 0218 or email info@arlaw.com.au to make an initial 30 minute consultation at our Melbourne office. (conditions apply)
For more go to www.arlaw.com.au
Note: this update, or any previous updates on this page, do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Please call our office to seek professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content on this page
