Australia’s special COVID-19 rules are ending on November 25, 2023
Australia’s COVID-19 Concession period is ending on November 25, 2023. What it means for travelers: To provide a clearer overview, here’s a breakdown of how specific visa programs will be impacted.
Impacted Visa Programs | Changes Post November 25, 2023 |
| Employer Sponsored Visas | New nominations for certain visa streams will require TSS holders to have worked with their sponsoring employer or in the specified occupation for medical practitioners and certain executives for 2 out of the previous 3 years. |
| Skilled Regional Visa Subclass 887 | Temporary concessions available during the COVID-19 concession period, allowing eligible applicants to lodge from in or outside Australia and access shorter periods of employment and regional residence requirements, will end. |
| Family Visas | Concessions removing location restrictions at the time of visa grant for certain Family program visa applicants will be discontinued. However, applicants for certain Partner and Child visas who applied before November 26, 2023, and were in Australia during the concession period will continue to be eligible for visa grants in Australia after the period ends. |
| Business Innovation and Investment Visas | Concessions for the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) will remain available for eligible applicants to make a valid application for 3 months after the end of the concession period, until February 26, 2024. |
| Safe Haven Enterprise Visa | Minimal impact is expected for the Safe Haven Enterprise visa pathway program as the Australian Government provides a permanent visa pathway option through the Resolution of Status (subclass 851) (RoS) visa. |
| Temporary Graduate Visa | From November 25, 2023, all applications for any stream of the Temporary Graduate visa (TGV) program must be lodged in Australia. Subsequent entrant applications can be lodged in or outside of Australia |
The COVID-19 concessions, allowing flexibility in work requirements and age exemptions for certain visas, will end on November 25, 2023. This means reduced work periods during the pandemic will now count towards work experience requirements, and age exemptions for high-income and legacy 457 workers won’t be valid for new applications. Skilled provisional visa holders applying for subclass 887 after this date must be in Australia but not in immigration clearance. These changes signify a return to a more standard migration system, emphasizing fairness for all applicants.
The details shared above were accurate as of 24th November 2023, but it’s important to note that things may change over time.. This information is meant for general understanding and should not be taken as legal advice. Keep in mind that information can change, so reach out to us for the latest guidance tailored to your situation. We look forward to assisting you!
If you’re seeking help from a MARA-registered agent in Australia, contact us at KnN. Our experienced team is knowledgeable about Australian immigration and education processes, ensuring you receive reliable guidance. As policies evolve, we stay updated to provide you with the most current information.
