Table of Contents
Highlights of latest 408 Visa News
In today's quick update, let's chat about the 408 visa. Starting 2 September 2023, only folks with a current 408 can apply for a new one. Then, as of 1 February 2024, the door will shut completely.
Remember the pandemic? Well, the408 visa, also known as the "COVID" visa😷, was the one that allowed foreigners to work without limits in Australia. It's winding down in stages now.
If you've got a current 😷 COVID visa, you can still send in a new application after September 2, 2023. But as of today, September 1, 2023, it's the last call for anyone without a current COVID visa to get their application in. And keep in mind, you've gotta meet some conditions, like having a main visa with work rights that's running out soon.
Why are they announcing this now? Probably to dodge a flood of last-minute applications.
Heads up for current COVID visa folks: you've got till January 31, 2024, to submit a follow-up application. But there are some catches:
- • Your current visa has to be up in 28 days or fewer, not the 90 days you might be used to.
- • You'll have to cough up a $405 application fee. Don't expect any extra costs though.
- • If you get a new visa, it'll last for just 6 months, not a whole year like before.
Come February 2024, this visa program is over. But don't panic; if you already have one, it'll stay valid till its original expiration date. Those without future visa options should plan to head out, though.
This phase-out was kinda expected. Australia has been cutting back on unlimited work rights for most other visa types like student and working holiday visas.
In a nutshell, the 408 visa did its job, but all good things must come to an end, right?
