Australian government to scrap Covid visa. Here's how it will impact Indian temporary workers, students
Australia is planning to end the Subclass 408 or Covid work visa, which could leave a lot of Indian students and temporary workers scrambling for other ways to stay in the country, a media report said.
If applicants were employed or had an offer of employment in a key sector, they were eligible for the temporary Activity Visa, also known as Subclass 408, which allowed them to work in Australia.
“The government is looking into its continued suitability right now. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) shared this information with SBS, an Australian multicultural and multilingual broadcaster. According to the DHA, “This includes consideration of an end date for closing eligibility of the visa (Subclass 408) and proposed approach to returning to normal operations”
Changes to Working Hours for Foreign Students in Australia
The change comes at the same time that the Australian government will start limiting foreign students‘ working hours to 48 hours per fortnight on July 1.
Students were able to work as much or as little as they wanted on the Covid work visa, but now work-hour caps will be reinstated, reducing their income.
However, until December 31, international students working in the aged care industry will not be subject to this cap.
“The conclusion of this visa will influence many, including worldwide understudies. According to Suman Dua, a migration expert, “they will be looking at a different visa to stay in Australia and for which they will pay,” Suman Dua told SBS. She also said that the Covid work visa was free to get.
The initial purpose of the Covid work visa was to ease the burden on foreign students studying in Australia who were unable to leave the country due to Covid-related border closures.
Extension of Covid Work Visa for International Students in Australia
To address the tenacious lack of work, DHA executed a more adaptable strategy with respect to visa condition 8107, which connects with work constraints for Subclass 408 visa holders.
To address the persistent shortage of labor, DHA implemented a more flexible policy regarding visa condition 8107, which relates to work limitations for Subclass 408 visa holders.
Individuals were currently eligible for a Subclass 408 visa if their current visa, which included work rights, had an expiration date of 28 days or less at the time of application.
Subclass 408 visa candidates can regularly be conceded a visa to stay in Australia for as long as a year, notwithstanding, for Impermanent Alumni (Subclass 485) visa holders, the pandemic occasion visa accompanies a two-year time of stay.rhi
When can I apply for student visa?
You can typically apply for a student visa once you have received an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution in the country you wish to study in. The specific timeframe for applying for a student visa can vary depending on the country's immigration policies and processing times. It is advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to study in for accurate and up-to-date information regarding the application process and timelines.
What is subclass 400 visa?
The Subclass 400 visa is a temporary visa offered by the Australian government for short-term, highly specialized work or activities.
What is a temporary activity visa?
A temporary activity visa is a type of visa that allows individuals to travel to a specific country for a temporary period to engage in specific activities or work. The specific activities or work allowed under this visa can vary depending on the country's immigration policies. It is typically granted for a limited duration and may have specific requirements and conditions that need to be met.
How much a student visa cost?
Student Visa USA Cost
Visa type Description Fee amount
F Students (academic) $160
J Exchange visitors $160
M Students (Vocational) $160
The cost of a student visa can vary depending on the country and specific requirements. It is advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to study in for accurate and up-to-date information regarding the visa fees.
Which visa can enter Australia?
There are several visas that can be used to enter Australia, depending on the purpose of your visit. Some common visa options include tourist visas, student visas, work visas, partner visas, and skilled migration visas. The specific visa you need will depend on factors such as the duration and purpose of your visit, your nationality, and your individual circumstances. It is advisable to consult the official Australian immigration website or seek professional advice to determine the appropriate visa for your specific situation.