No Visa Application Charge for Eligible Visitor Visa Renewal
Eligible Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) holders affected by COVID-19 will not have to pay a visa application charge when re-applying for a new visitor visa subclass 600.
The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant that Australia’s borders have been strictly closed since March 2020. Entry to Australia is heavily monitored only available to Australian citizens, permanent residents or in circumstances where individuals have been granted an exemption. In no circumstances has this exemption been extended or granted to individuals with visitor or tourism intentions.
As the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to linger, the government have had to make amendments to accommodate many visa holders. From 27 February 2021, the Migration (Class of persons for Visitor (Class FA) visa nil VAC) Instrument (LIN 21/021) 2021 commenced to assist certain former Visitor visa (subclass 600) holders.
Purpose
The above-mentioned holders can apply for a new Subclass 600 visa without having to pay the usual visa application charge (VAC) which ranges from AUD 145 to 370
Who is Eligible for the Visitor Visa Concession
The nil VAC is available for the above-mentioned who have had their travel to Australia or stay in Australia (or both) affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and travel restrictions
This new instrument excludes those holders who were previously granted a Subclass 600 (Visitor) visa in the Frequent Traveller stream
Eligibility Criteria for Visitor Visa Concession
Applicant must be outside of Australia at the time of the Subclass 600 (Visitor) visa
The application is made between 27 February 2021 and 31 December 2022
The applicant was previously granted a Subclass 600 (Visitor) visa, while outside Australia before 21 March 2020 and the visa has expired or will expire between 20 March 2020 and 31 December 2021
The previously granted visa was a multiple entry visa or a single entry visa that was not used to enter Australia
A decision has not been made to grant or refuse to grant the applicant’s visa if they have made an application prior to 27 February 2021
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You
At Agape Henry Crux, our Accredited Specialist Immigration Lawyers and our team of immigration lawyers and migration agents are well trained to handle highly complex matters. You can book one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-72002700 or email us to book in a time at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Korean, Burmese, Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Indonesian, and Malay. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
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