Since international travel restrictions began, it has become more difficult for visa applicants to satisfy their visa requirements – particularly the Offshore Visa Grant Requirement. This requires many applicants that applied for their visa offshore to also be overseas at the time of their visa grant. Thankfully, from 27 February 2021 a temporary concession applied which may allow the below Partner…
This week, Health Department Secretary, Brendan Murphy predicted it is unlikely there will be a return to widespread overseas travel this year, even with COVID-19 vaccinations being rolled out across the world. According to Mr Murphy, the prospect of Australia’s international border opening in 2021 remains a ‘big open question’. He told ABC TV, “I…
The Government has announced new rules for international travellers, which will take effect no later than 15 January 2021. The changes were agreed by the National Cabinet on 8 January 2021 in response to the new COVID-19 strain that is more infectious. Here’s a summary: International passenger caps in NSW, QLD and WA will be halved by 50% until 15…
As part of Australia’s international travel restrictions, all travellers to Australia need to quarantine for 14-days, except for: Travellers who have been in New Zealand for 14 days prior to travel (although this may differ between Australian States and Territories). People who meet a Quarantine Exemption category. To separate passengers from ‘quarantine-free’ flights and those who must enter…
Business owners, entrepreneurs and investors will gain access to a longer visa period in Australia and a direct Permanent Residence (PR) pathway following changes to the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) from 1 July 2021. The BIIP program targets migrants with a demonstrated history of success or talent in innovation, investment and business and who make…
Updated 19 January 2021: According to recent news, quarantine-free movement between Australia and New Zealand is still planned for April 2021. This is despite caution over the new COVID-19 strain and Government discussions as to whether Australia will re-open its international border in 2021. New Zealand’s COVID-19 Response Minister has reaffirmed plans to establish a two-way travel…
Temporary changes will make it easier for Child and Partner Visa applicants in Australia to stay in the country with their families. Applicants for the below Child and Partner Visas who are in Australia will soon be able to remain in the country while their visa is being granted. Subclass 300 Prospective Marriage Visa Subclass 309 Partner…
The Government has introduced Australia Travel Declarations to better manage contact tracing and quarantine plans. All international travellers should complete an Australia Travel Declaration at least 72 hours before departing for Australia. This includes: Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents People who are automatically exempt from the travel restrictions People who have been granted a travel exemption The declarations collect each traveller’s:…
We are continuing to see Travel Exemption categories gradually expand and occupations added to the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL) while Australia seeks to ensure it has the critical skills needed to boost the economy during the pandemic. Travel Exemptions to come to Australia The Government has added two new Travel Exemption categories. Individuals…
As mentioned in our Federal Budget insights, it seems travel to Australia over the next 12 months will continue to be restricted to people with a valid Travel Exemption. Given that the need to obtain a Travel Exemption will be with us for some time, here’s what employers and visa applicants/holders need to know. When is it possible…
