Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update – 17 March 2020
Previously announced travel restrictions are still in place for persons travelling from mainland China, Iran, Republic of Korea and Italy.
Any Australian citizens or permanent residents of Australia returning from these countries along with their immediate family will be allowed to enter Australia, however, will be required to self-isolate in their homes for 14 days.
Newest updates:
- The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has announced on the 17th March that all Australian citizens and permanent residents are urged to return to Australia as early as possible.
- The Australian Government has announced that all incomers to Australia will be required to self-isolate in their homes for 14 days post arrival.
- In addition to the 14 day self-isolation requirement, all international cruise ships will be banned from docking in Australia for the next 30 days with a reassessment to happen before that date.
Updates for Onshore visa holders:
- Persons holding onshore visas who wish to extend their stay in Australia will need to still apply for an applicable visa.
- Those holding ‘no further stay’ restrictions may be eligible for a waiver.
- For these waivers, it is recommended to contact the department in which your visa was issued from.
Updates for Offshore visa holders:
- A waiver may also be available for those holding offshore visas who are required to enter Australia by a certain date.
The Department of Home Affairs has already dedicated extra resources to combat the expected increase in waiver requests.
Ethos Migration Lawyers suggests any current clients to contact us if they have any concerns over their visa. We encourage telephone or video consultations at this time if any of our clients do not feel comfortable attending our offices.
For information regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit https://www.health.gov.au/
Ethos Migration Lawyers will continue to provide further updates as they become available.