The Australian government has banned the entry of all temporary visa holders into Australia from 20 March 2020 due to the pandemic of the coronavirus. Australian citizens, permanent residents (those who hold a permanent visa), their immediate family (spouses, legal guardians and dependents) and New Zealand Citizens living in Australia can still enter the country, but they must self-isolate for 14 days.
The government has put this ban in place because they say that around 80 per cent of coronavirus cases in Australia are people who caught the virus overseas.
What is a temporary Visa?
A Tourist Visa, a Student Visa, a Bridging Visa B, a Sponsorship Work (457 or 482) Visa, a Working Holiday Visa, just to name a few.
What should I do if I am on a Temporary Visa?
Please stay legal!
If you are already in Australia on a Temporary Visa, don’t worry because you are not going to be asked to leave Australia.
However, if you cannot leave Australia due to shortage in flights, or because you don’t want to leave, or any other reason, there aren’t any “special” or flexible arrangements or conditions put in place for people in your situation so far.
So if your visa is about to expire, you still have to apply for another visa to stay legal.
There are some options to choose from depending on the visa you hold at the moment, and the conditions of your visa.
You may be able to apply for the same visa you already hold or you may apply a new visa that would allow you to stay longer or, at least, ensure you will remain lawful in the country while you organise your departure.
If you are in one of these situations, please contact us and we will be more than happy to assist you with organising your next steps. The Department of Immigration is working normally and so is Bravo Migration.
If you are in the country and need to find out which visa you can apply for, we are offering a Free Stay in Australia Phone Chat, as we want to help as many people as possible in these uncertain times.
Please call us on 02-9216-6600
Let’s all take a deep breath and move forward into the unknown, together.
Stay Safe,
* Please note that the situation is changing rapidly so more updates may still come and we will keep you updated!
