February 2, 2024
Final closure of the Pandemic Event visa
The Australian government has announced the final closure of the Pandemic Event visa (Subclass 408), effective February 2024. This visa was introduced to address the labour shortages and other challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is now being phased out as the situation has tabilized.
from September 2, 2023, only existing Pandemic Event visa holders can apply for an extension. New applications from others are no longer accepted.
Applications submitted before February 2024 will grant a six-month visa, and a Visa Application Charge of AUD 405 has been introduced.
Those holding a Pandemic Event visa can stay in Australia until their visa expires. However, they must explore other visa options if they wish to remain in Australia beyond their current visa's validity.
- Employer-Sponsored Visas: These include the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) and the Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186), which allow for longer stays and potential pathways to permanent residency.
- Skilled Migration Visas: Options such as the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) provide pathways to permanent residency for those meeting the required points and skills assessment criteria.
- Student Visas: The Student Visa (Subclass 500) and subsequent Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) offer routes for international students to stay and work in Australia post-study.
- Working Holiday Visas: For younger visitors, the Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) and Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) allow for extended stays with opportunities for temporary work and travel.
.
