Pandemic Event visa closure The Temporary Activity visa (subclass 408) Australian Government endorsed events (COVID-19 Pandemic Event)—the Pandemic Event visa—is closing.
From 2 September 2023, the Pandemic Event visa will only be available to existing Pandemic Event visa holders.
If you hold a Pandemic Event visa, you may continue to be eligible for a subsequent visa after 2 September 2023 up until the visa is fully closed on 1 February 2024.
All other visa holders will be ineligible for the Pandemic Event visa from 2 September 2023.
As part of the staged closure:
- All visa applications lodged on or after 2 September 2023, if granted, will have a stay period in Australia of up to 6 months
- All applications lodged on or after 2 September 2023 will incur a Visa Application Charge (VAC) of AUD405.00
- The Pandemic event visa will close to all new applications on 1 February 2024.
- At the time of application you must hold a Pandemic event visa that expires in 28 days or less, rather than the previous 90 day period.
- Applications lodged before 2 September 2023, if granted, will continue to be considered for a period of stay in Australia of up to 12 months (or 2 years for TGV holders).
- Your Pandemic Event visa will remain valid until its expiry or you are granted another visa.
Next steps for visa holders preparing for closure
If you hold a Pandemic Event visa it is now time for you to regularise your visa status and apply for a visa that is designed for your intended purpose of stay or make arrangements to depart Australia.
You can use VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online) to check your visa details, including your visa expiry date, visit www.homeaffairs.gov.au/vevo.
You will be able to apply for a subsequent Pandemic Event visa after 2 September 2023, up until the visa is fully closed on 1 February 2024, as long as at time of application you have 28 days or less remaining on your Pandemic Event visa.
You should ensure you remain lawful if you wish to stay in Australia. Becoming unlawful may impact your ability to visit Australia in the future.
Next steps for employers preparing for closure
Employers of a Pandemic Event visa holder should check what their employee’s plans are, including whether they intend to transition to another visa or depart Australia. By extending the time period before full closure, employers of a Pandemic Event visa holder will have more time to find new workers. It is the responsibility of employers to ensure that they employ overseas workers with a valid visa, otherwise they risk significant penalties.
How can Migration Unity help?
We can help by assessing visa holders’ eligibility for any other possible visa, we can also assist employers with sponsoring overseas workers.
