Here’s what you need to know:

Prior to 2 September 2023

Temporary visa holders with 90 days or less remaining on their visa, who are working or have a job offer, may continue to apply for a Pandemic Event visa with a nil Visa Application Charge (VAC).

These applications will have their applications assessed under the arrangements in place at the time they lodge their application. This includes their period of stay in Australia.

From 2 September 2023

The 408 COVID-19 visa will only be available to people who already hold a Pandemic Event visa. All other visa holders will be ineligible for the Pandemic Event visa from 2 September 2023.

These eligible visa holders will be granted a subsequent visa for up to only 6 months (reduced from 12 months). Additionally, visa holders are only eligible for a further visa if, at the time of application, their current visa is expiring within 28 days or less, and they have a job or job offer in Australia.

Applications will also include a Visa Application Charge (VAC) of $405 (prior to 2 September 2023, it was nil). There is also a visa charge for each family member included in the application.

From February 2024

The 408 COVID-19 visa will close to all applicants from February 2024.

Concluding thoughts

If you, or an employee, happen to be in Australia under a visa that grants work rights and have plans to submit an initial application for a subclass 408 (COVID-19 Pandemic stream) visa, it is imperative that you have 90 days or less left on your current visa by the deadline of 11:59 pm AEST on 1 September 2023. This marks the final opportunity for submitting an initial application.

Changes to the migration program can occur without notice. The above information is not intended to be legal advice and is correct as of the date of writing this article. 

Contact Migrations Affairs to speak with our immigration experts for tailored advice on the circumstances and eligibility.