Businesses and visa holders have had to adapt very quickly to Australia’s Travel Ban and quarantine requirements, however exemptions for travel to Australia are available under limited circumstances, such as for critical work or compelling and compassionate cases.
These travel restrictions may be with us for some time to come, although it is encouraging to see some social distancing restrictions start to ease in some states.
Here’s what you need to know about exemptions for travel to Australia that are available for limited cases.
What is the process for exemptions for travel to Australia?
Currently, only very limited exceptions have been made for critical workers to enter Australia (in addition to Australian Citizens and Permanent Residence Visa holders).
You can read the requirements for Travel Ban Exemptions here. Individuals can also be granted an exemption for compassionate or compelling cases.
In this unprecedented time, employers must navigate cross-border issues for overseas employees at an international, state and regional level.
As you can see above, due to exemptions for travel to Australia, approval now needs to be sought from the Commonwealth Government for international Travel Ban Exemptions, as well as from relevant authorities for interstate and intrastate travel.
How are exemptions for travel to Australia being managed?
Applicants must present a well-documented case with sufficient evidence for meeting the exemption criteria. This also applies for exemptions for interstate and intrastate travel.
During this time of crisis, many State and Territory authorities, such as Police Departments, are exercising travel restrictions that have never been enforced previously.
Various ‘teething’ issues have been worked through since the restrictions commenced, and in our experience, authorities have tried to be as practical and accommodating as possible within border protection limitations.
Other things to note
Employers and visa holders need to plan for delays, which are very likely at this stage, due to the need to satisfy new border procedures.
This includes Australia’s 14 day quarantine requirement for overseas travellers, however it’s worth noting interstate quarantine exemptions may be possible in some circumstances.
We are here to support you
If you have any visa or migration concerns about exemptions for travel to Australia, please get in touch. We understand that due to travel bans and safety concerns, it may not be possible for many Temporary Visa holders to travel home before their visa expires. Our migration agents can help you understand your visa options if you need to stay in Australia.
We also encourage you to seek professional advice if you or your business has requirements for exemptions for travel to Australia. You can reach our Registered Migration Agents at visa@interstaff.com or +61 8 9221 3388 (or National Free Call 1800 449 858).
Source:
Interstaff Migration Agent
Migration Institute of Australia
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