Currently, there are 2.17 million people on a temporary visa in Australia who are not receiving direct aid from the Government but only support in form of relaxed visa conditions, extended limits of working hours and early access to superannuation funds. While the Australian Government considers temporary visa holders as an important part of the Australian economy and society, there is clear message for people who are incapable to support themselves financially during coming months “to return home”.
Visitor Visa Holders
The Government has been strongly advising international tourists to go back to their home country as soon as possible if it is practical to do so and many people have now reached their homes safely. In cases where it is not possible for you to return for reasons such as the country is under complete locked down in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus) or reduced international air network, the Department may extend your visitor visas to let you stay lawfully in Australia for the time being.
The Hon Alan Tudge MP, the current acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs said, “As I said, for those tourists who’re here, whose visas are due to expire, who are concerned that they cannot get home, then they should contact the Immigration Department as a matter of urgency.”
Thus, before you plan to leave from Australia you must thoroughly check your ability to enter another country, even if it’s your home country. Some countries, for example, India, has placed a travel ban on incoming of its own citizens as well. If you are unable to travel and your tourist visa is expiring soon or has expired, you must immediately take action to remain a lawful non-citizen in Australia or face the consequences including detention.
Restrictions for Australians
While temporary visa holders may still be able to leave Australia, the Government has imposed overseas travel restrictions on Australian citizens and permanent residents.
However, if your travel falls under below mentioned categories, you may be able to seek a travel exemption from the Commissioner of ABF (Australian Border Force) by filling the ‘COVID-19 (Novel coronavirus) request to travel form’ online:
- To respond to the COVID-19 outbreak;
- To conduct critical industries and business;
- To receive urgent medical treatment (not available in Australia);
- To attend urgent and unavoidable personal business;
- To serve the national interest;
- For compassionate or humanitarian grounds.
You should apply for an exemption at least 48 hours before your intended departure time. Without the exemption, you will not be allowed to travel and thus, you must take evidence of the exemption to the airport. Further, you will be required to provide evidence with your request for exemption, which must be officially translated to English, if not in English already.
If you are seeking assistance for visa extension or travel exemption, or are facing any migration difficulties, call us on (02) 4626 100 to speak to one of our Registered Migration Agents.
