Australia's Government amends visa conditions to support international tourism sector

Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham said (12-Oct-2020) visitor visa holders who are overseas and whose visas expired or will expire between Mar-2020 and Dec-2021 will be eligible for a waiver when they apply for a new visa, helping support the rebound of Australia's AUD45 billion (USD32.4 billion) international tourism sector when international travel restrictions ease. Backpackers on Working Holiday Maker visas who have been unable to come to Australia or who had to leave Australia early due to coronavirus will also be eligible for a waiver, when they decide to return to Australia. Visa conditions for individuals within the Seasonal Worker Program and Pacific Labour Scheme have been temporarily relaxed and options are available for them to extend their stay in Australia for up to 12 months to support the agriculture sector. Visa extensions will be available for Prospective Marriage visa holders whose visas are still valid. [more - original PR]