COVID-19 Pandemic Event (Subclass 408) visa continues

Despite industry wide speculation that the government would stop taking Covid visa applications on June 30, 2023, it continues to be available to Temporary visa holders with work rights.

Presently, the COVID-19 Pandemic Event visa is available with no Visa Application Charge for 12 months for any person working in, or intending to work in, any sector of the Australian economy provided they apply for the visa up to 90 days before their existing visa expires.

Work rights are unrestricted with applicants and holders being able change employment and work for more than one employer, including self-employment. Moreover, there is no need to contact the Department to advise of changes in employment.

Eligible TGV485 holders may apply for and be granted a Covid visa with a 2-year period of stay.

To see if you are eligible, contact us now.

What is the Government application fee for the 408 visa

Free. Applicants are eligible for the ‘visa application charge concession’.

What is the purpose of the 408 visa

The 408 visa is a temporary activity visa endorsed by the Australian government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The visa allows holders to remain in Australia for up to 12 months. Eligible Temporary Graduate Visa (TGV) 485 holders may apply for and be granted a COVID-19 Pandemic Event visa with a 2-year period of stay.

To be eligible for the visa, applicants must be working in Australia or have an offer of employment. The Australian Taxation Office provides information on how you will be taxed while on a 408 Pandemic event visa.

Closure of Covid Visa 408

From February 2024, the Pandemic Event visa, commonly referred to as the Covid visa, will be closed to all applicants.

From 2 September 2023, the Pandemic Event visa will only be open to applications from existing Pandemic Event visa holders. All other visa holders will be ineligible for the Pandemic Event visa.

Check our blog post about the closure or the latest covid news.