A new instrument was registered Friday 29 October 2021 which effectively amends the Migration Regulations 1994 to allow applicants who have been refused a visa or had a visa cancelled and are prevented from applying in Australia (section 48 bar) but are unable to leave and apply from overseas due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions, to make applications in Australia for the following visas:
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491)
- Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) visa (subclass 494)
What does this mean if you are subject to a section 48 bar?
If you are subject to a section 48 bar and have recently received an invitation to apply by respective State or Territory governments for subclass 190 and subclass 491 visas, you will now be able to make applications in Australia.
If you are subject to a section 48 bar and have recently been nominated by your employer in regional Australia to apply for a subclass 494 visa, you will now be able to make applications in Australia.
This is fantastic news for both applicants and employers as Australia continues to navigate the road to economic and business recovery and where many applicants have been unable to leave and apply from overseas due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions.
If this amendment affects yourself or your workforce, contact us for expert advice: aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com
