Pandemic Event Visa (408) critical Sectors Added
The tourism and hospitality sectors has been added to the critical sectors of agriculture, food processing, health care, aged care, disability care and child care for eligibility for the Subclass 408 COVID-19 Pandemic Event visa.
Temporary visa holders employed in the tourism and hospitality sector are now able to access this SC 408 stream for a period of 12 months.
Temporary visa holders working in, or intending to work in, tourism and hospitality will be able to apply for the SC 408 COVID-19 Visa up to 90 days before their existing visa expires and then remain in Australia for up to 12 additional months if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Student visa work rights
The previous 40 hour fortnightly work condition limit applied during study periods, will not be enforced for student visa holders who are working in the tourism and hospitality industry.
The Department of Home Affairs is taking a flexible approach to students working beyond the usual work limitations in the following industries, as a result of the COVID pandemic:
- employed in the health sector, enrolled in a health related course (such as nursing or medicine) and are directed by a health official to assist in the effort against COVID‑19
- employed in aged care by an Approved Provider or Commonwealth-funded aged care service provider before 8 September 2020
- employed by a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme provider before 23 April 2020
- employed in the agriculture sector
- employed in the tourism and hospitality sector
This newsletter only provides general information related to current migration matters. The information contained in this communication does not constitute specific migration advice, and should not be construed or relied on as such. Professional advice should be sought for the specifics of your situation prior to any action being taken. BD Welsh and Co disclaims any liability (including, without limitation, for any direct or indirect or consequential costs, loss or damage or loss of profits) arising from anything done or omitted to be done by any party in reliance, whether wholly or partially, on any of the information contained in this newsletter. Any party that relies on the information does so at its own risk. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.