Some categories of visas require applicants to be physically outside of the Australia at the time the visa is granted. Given COVID-19 travel restrictions are affecting visa applicants, in a further announcement from the government, we now have confirmed dates when new changes are intended to come into effect.
Family Visas – Onshore grant permitted
From 27 February 2021 some Family stream visas, which have been applied for outside Australia, can be granted while the visa applicant is in Australia. This concession applies to the following subclasses:
- Partner (subclass 309) visa
- Prospective Marriage (subclass 300) visa
- Child (subclass 101) visa
- Adoption (subclass 102) visa
- Dependent Child (subclass 445) visa
The same concession will commence for eligible parent visa applicants on 24 March 2021:
- Contributory Parent (subclass 173) visa
- Contributory Parent (subclass 143) visa
- Parent (subclass 103) visa
This temporary concession would be for certain applicants who are in Australia and are not able to travel offshore to be granted the visa because of COVID-19 travel restrictions. It is not known how long this concession will be in place as it is dependent on travel disruption. It also gives no indication as to whether processing of these visa types will speed up and the government has stated in its website that parent visa applications would not be impacted by these amendments.
DISCLAIMER This information is current as of 15 February and subject to change. The information contained in this publication is of a general nature only. It should not be used as legal advice. To the extent permissible by law, Ajuria Lawyers and its associated entities shall not be liable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the information or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who use or rely on such information. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
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