COVID-19: Concessions and exemptions for 189 visas for New Zealanders

COVID-19: Concessions and exemptions for 189 visas for New Zealanders

Regulations will be amended from 1 July 2021 that will see it easier for New Zealand citizens to meet the requirement for a Subclass 189 - Skilled – Independent visa under the New Zealand stream. This includes reducing the number of years necessary to meet income requirements and concessions for those affected by COVID-19 on their employment and residence eligibility.

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Partner visas: sponsor framework and English coming late 2021; electronic passenger cards; COVID-19 visa refunds and waivers

Partner visas: sponsor framework and English coming late 2021; electronic passenger cards; COVID-19 visa refunds and waivers

Late 2021 is when the partner visa sponsorship framework and English requirements will commence. Sponsors must be approved before a valid partner visa application can be lodged. Incoming passenger cards will be replaced by Digital Passenger Declarations in the near future. Visa application charge refunds and waivers are available for some temporary visa holders whose travel to Australia has been affected by COVID-19 border closures.

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COVID-19: Temporary workers to access super early; WHMs to self-isolate and register before regional work; 457/482 workers to be allowed to work part-time for sponsor

COVID-19: Temporary workers to access super early; WHMs to self-isolate and register before regional work; 457/482 workers to be allowed to work part-time for sponsor

Major temporary changes were announced yesterday to a raft of visa programs to support critical industries that may be affected during the coronavirus pandemic and temporary visa holders in Australia. This includes early access to superannuation for all temporary visa holders, exemptions to the 6-month work limitation for working holiday makers in some sectors and the possibility of renewal should their visa expire in the next six months, and the ability for sponsored workers to work part-time.

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