From 19 September 2020, a number of concessions will be available for certain visa holders impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 concessions are to help visa holders continue on their visa pathway if they have been disadvantaged by COVID-19 border closures, business restrictions or the economic downturn.
If you hold, or held, a temporary or provisional visa listed below during the COVID-19 concession period you may be eligible for a COVID-19 concession.
The COVID-19 concession period commences from 1 February 2020 and is an interim arrangement. Check back here or contact Aussie Immigration Services for updates about when the concession period will end.
The Department of Home Affairs has changed the requirements for a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa for those who have been affected by COVID-19 travel restrictions:
- online study undertaken outside Australia will count towards the Australian Study Requirement for existing and new student visa holders.
Online study outside Australia is counted from the time of Student visa grant only.
- graduates can apply for and be granted a Temporary Graduate visa outside Australia (where they have met all the requirements).
If you are applying outside Australia, you must hold or have held an eligible Student visa (this does not include one supported by the Defence or Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister).
Flexible timeframes for additional information – English tests, biometrics and health
The Department allow extra time for applicants to provide English language test results if they were unable to take a test because of COVID-19. Extra time will also be given for biometrics collection and health checks where COVID-19 disrupted access to services.
Where you have made an appointment for one or more of these services more than 28 days into the future, booking confirmation may be attached in ImmiAccount.
Source: https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/covid-19-visa-concessions
