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485 Applications – UPDATE – No Further Processing Until English Evidence Provided
We have received further confirmation today that whilst evidence of English is a time of application requirement for sc485 visa application, that due to the disruptions caused by COVID-19, immigration will now take the following approach: DoHA is seeking a policy turnaround for English being required at Time of Application and until the Regulations are amended; Processing of sc485 applications will commence until English language results are attached, effectively meaning that English will be assessed at Time of Decision. The above is designed so as not to disadvantage students in any way due to the situation being outside their control
Hong Kong Passport Holders Legislative Update
Legislative changes have been made to extend temporary skilled and temporary graduate visas for five years from 9 July 2020 to 8 July 2025 if the primary visa holder held a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China passport when the visa was granted. The above extends to dependent family members regardless of their country of passport. Whilst the government has announced that this cohort of visa holders will have pathways to permanent residency available, no specific details have yet been released and they will be announced at a later date. The Legislative Instrument can be
Support for International Students: Government Announces Five Major Changes to Student Visa
A joint media statement released today from MP Alan Tudge (Acting Minister for Immigration) and MP Dan Tehan (Minister for Education) have announced five major changes to student visas. As per the media statement, they are: The Government will recommence granting student visas in all locations lodged outside Australia. This means when borders re-open, students will already have visas and be able to make arrangements to travel. International students will be able to lodge a further student visa application free of charge, if they are unable to complete their studies within their original visa validity due to COVID-19. Current student visa
Coronavirus (COVID-19) relief fund for Victorian International Students
The Andrews Government have just announced a $45 million fund for international students in Victoria facing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19. These payments are being delivered in partnership with Victoria’s tertiary sector, working on top of the existing range of relief programs offered by the State’s universities and education providers. What can I expect to receive from the fund? International students will receive a one-off payment of up to $1,100 as part of the Victorian Government emergency support package. Who is eligible? International students who have lost wages or work as a result of the coronavirus pandemic from
Renewing your Student Visa: What you need to know
From your original application for your Australian Student Visa, it was made evident that it is vital to have all your ducks in a row and be completely prepared – the renewal process is no different. You must apply before your current student visa expiry. For those careless students who forget their visa expiry and take action after their visa has expired (it does happen!), you will have a one time 28-day grace period to renew your visa once it has expired or depart Australia, departure after the 28 day period will result in a three year ban in any
