Can the 408 Visa Help During Lockdown?

How Can the 408 Visa Help During Lockdown?

There have been some additions for the 408 Visa during lockdown, effective from the 7th of September 2020.

Immigration Lawyer Sydney on The 408 Visa

The 408 Visa is a Temporary activity Visa. It allows individuals to come to the country on a temporary basis if they are involved with some certain forms of work.

Normally you might be eligible for the 408 Visa if:

– You participate in activities at the invitation of an Australian Organization.
– You participate in an Australian research Project, even as an observer.
– You are a skilled worker in a staff exchange program.
– You are involved in a cultural, community or youth work program.
– You participate in a government endorsed event.
– You work in the entertainment industry.
– You work in Sports training or high end sports events.
– You do full time religious work.
– You do domestic work for certain senior foreign executives.

You must be sponsored/invited by an Australian organization to get this Visa. You must also be skill in the area where you will work.
The length of the stay varies.
– If an organization invites you for an event the stay is up to 3 months.
– Government activities allow a stay of up to 4 years.
– Most other activities limit the stay, up to two years.

Processing time for this Visa ranges from 21 days to 3 months.

The 408 Visa during Corona Virus Lockdown – Immigration Lawyers Sydney

Critical Work Areas
Foreigners who work in a critical sector during Corona Virus restrictions might be able to extend their stay with a 408 Visa.

Critical Sectors at this time include:

– Agriculture
– Food processing
– Health care
– Aged care
– Disability care
– Childcare

Foreigners Stuck in Australia
Individuals presently stuck in the country due to the Lockdown, who find it difficult to return to their home country can also apply for the 408 Visa. This can extend the stay in Australia for up to 6 months, allowing the individuals to arrange passage to their home country.

Immigration Lawyer Sydney

The present Visa situation is complex due to the Corona Virus lockdown. Talk to our lawyers who understand the rapidly changing legal situation.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No individual should take, or refrain from taking, any action solely based on the material contained in this article. While we aim to offer accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on the date of receipt or in the future. If you require more information or seek relevant legal advice specific to your circumstances, please contact our office.