Tourism & Hospitality added to critical work sectors – SC408 COVID19 Visa & Student Work Rights

Student Visa Holder Work Rights

The Department of Home Affairs has announced that Student (subclass 500) visa holders working in the ‘Touristm and Hospitality’ sectors are temporarily no longer restricted to 20 hours per week (or 40 hours per fortnight) under the ‘Temporary relaxation of working hours for student visa holders’ due to the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

International students in Australia can now work full time hours and not be in breach of Condition 8105.

The Australian government has made this change to support the Australian tourism and hospitality industries who have been hit especially hard through the pandemic.

The Department has not provided with an end date to this temporary relaxation but we recommend that student visa holders regularly seek updates to ensure they are remaining compliant with their visa conditions.

Temporary Activity (subclass 408) ‘COVID19 Visa’ available for Touristm & Hospitality Sectors

In addition to the temporary relaxation of work limitations for student visa holders, temporary visa holders working in, or intending to work in, the toursim and hospitality sector will be able to apply for the SC408 ‘VODI-19’ Visa up to 90 days before their existing visa expires and will be able to remain in Australia for up to 12 additional months from the time their SC408 visa is granted.

Ethos Migration Lawyers will continue to provide updates as they become available.