The End Is Coming For The 408 Pandemic Visa

The Australian Federal Government has just announced it is closing the 408 Pandemic Visa (COVID visa).

The staged closure will be as follows:

From 2 September 2023, the Pandemic Event visa will only be open to applications from visa applicants who currently hold a Pandemic Event visa. It will attract a $405 lodgment fee (previously it was free) and once granted it will only be for 6 months (reduced from 12 months). All other visa holders will be ineligible for the Pandemic Event visa.

From February 2024, the visa will be closed to all applicants.

Anyone with a valid Pandemic Event visa will remain lawful until their current visa expires.

The Pandemic Visa was used as a temporary work solution providing applicants 12 months of work rights. The Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, The Hon Andrew Giles has stated:

The Pandemic Event visa was an important part of Australia’s visa system during the pandemic. Many people on temporary visas helped Australia during this period. We’re providing an opportunity for people who hold a Pandemic Event visa to explore another visa option, or plan to leave Australia.

More information can be found in the media release here.

DISCLAIMER This information is current as of 31 August 2023 and is subject to change with little notice. This publication is of a general nature only and should not be used as legal advice. To the extent permissible by law, Ajuria Lawyers and its associated entities shall not be liable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the information or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who use or rely on such information. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

The post The End Is Coming For The 408 Pandemic Visa first appeared on Ajuria Lawyers – Leaders in Immigration.