Due to the severe skills shortage in the Hospitality and Tourism sector, Immigration has announced new options and conditions including the following:
- International students in Australia who work in the Hospitality and Tourism sector and who face the 40-hour fortnightly limit on their working hours while they are studying will now be able to work on a full-time basis, that is, 40 hours per week rather than 40 hours per fortnight
- Students will still need to continue their studies and maintain their enrolment whilst holding their student visa
- Temporary visa holders working in or intending to work in the Hospitality or Tourism sector may be able to apply for the 408 COVID-19 Visa however only up to 90 days before their existing visa expires. The 408 visa will enable applicants to remain in Australia to work on a full time basis for up to 12 additional months. The 408 visa may be a better option compared to holding on to your student visa depending on your situation. Contact us to confirm your eligibility for the 408 visa and to handle the application process.
- In some cases, for longer term options and to aim for permanent residency the 482 Temporary Work visa may be a better option or even a 494 Skilled Regional Temporary visa or the ENS186 permanent residency visa options. Refer to more info re employer sponsorship visa options here.
- Hospitality and tourism are now classified as critical industries alongside other sectors such as agriculture, food processing, health care, disability care and childcare with similar allowances
