The aim of the federal government's announcement is to ensure Australia remains an attractive destination for tourists and temporary visa holders.
The federal government is offering a reprieve to current visa holders, declaring it will refund or waive application charges for select temporary visa holders affected by coronavirus travel restrictions.
Temporary skilled workers and visitor visa holders will be eligible to have the visa application charge [[VAC]] for a subsequent visa application waived, which will allow them to return to Australia once international borders re-open.
Visitor visa holders who are overseas and whose visas have expired, or will expire before December 2021, will be eligible for a waiver when they apply for a new visa.
Temporary Skill Shortage, Temporary Work visa holders and backpackers on Working Holiday Maker visas who have been unable to come to Australia or had to leave early due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will also be able to have their application fee waived.
Seasonal Worker Program and Pacific Labour Scheme visa holders will be eligible for a refund of application charges if they were granted a visa before March the 20th this year, as will Prospective Marriage visa holders.
