May 2020
The Australian Government has announced that it will take a flexible approach in relation to student visa conditions where Covid-19 restrictions have prevented conditions being met, such as attendance at class or use of online learning. However, the Department of Home Affairs does not regulate the mode of study required during Coronavirus outbreak. You should contact your study provider to ensure that you are meeting their requirements.
If you need to apply for a new visa in order to complete your studies, the department of Home affairs is advising that you should apply for the visa six weeks before your current visa expires.
Students are advised to return to their home countries if you are unable to support yourself in Australia during COVID-19 outbreak. However, students who have been in Australia for more than twelve months and have been working are able to access their superannuation.
In general, students are still limited to working no more than 40 hours per fortnight. However, some exemptions have been announced.
You may work for more than 40 hours per fortnight during Coronavirus pandemic if you are:
· Employed in the nursing sector
· Employed by registered supermarkets (from 1st May 2020, this changes and students will only be able to work 40 hours per fortnight)
· Employed in the Aged Care Sector
If you have completed your studies in Australia, you can apply for a Visitor visa, but you must do this before your student visa expires.
If you return home, or your study situation changes, you do not need to contact the Department of Home Affairs. Your visa will remain valid until your visa expires or you are granted another visa.
Covid-19 Coronavirus updates for Student visa holders in Australia
For more information regarding COVID-19 pandemic and temporary student visa consultancy, please book your appointment now with Melbourne’s best lawyers at Erskine Rodan & Associates.
