Temporary Activity Visa (Covid-19 Pandemic Event)
In recognising restricted international travel options arising from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Australian Government has introduced a special category within the Subclass 408 visa to enable certain foreign employees to remain and continue their current work in Australia in critical sectors such as agriculture, food processing, and health, aged, disability, or child care. Evidence is required that the applicant is unable to depart Australia due to Covid-19 travel restrictions; has ongoing employment in the critical sector; that an Australian citizen or permanent resident is unable to fill the role; and the applicant cannot meet the requirements of any other work visa and
Relevant visa applications will only be considered if the applicant is currently working onshore in the prescribed critical Australian sector and has less than 28 days remaining on their current visa, or their last substantive visa expired less than 28 days ago.
If granted, the visa will be valid for a further stay up to 12 months or whatever period of temporary stay is necessary if another visa class is not available while they are unable to return home from Australia.
The visa cannot be extended past its initially granted period of stay.
Members of the immediate family unit can be included in the application however work rights will be limited only to those who will continue to work in one of the critical sectors.
The visa is also open to medical professionals making employment arrangements in the health care sector.
Australia’s traditional conditions will also apply to the application which include the applicant’s ability to:
- Be a genuine temporary entrant
- Maintain adequate funds to self-support for duration of the extended stay in Australia
- Meet health and character requirements
- Maintain adequate health insurance
- Have not had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused
- Sign the Australian values statements
Please consult Expat International’s visa division specialists to establish your eligibility to apply for the specially devised Temporary Activity Visa, or for other possible options that may be suitable to your situation arising from the pandemic disruption to travel and immigration compliance.
Find out more by contacting us.
