COVID-19 testing and treatment

Even if you don't have a visa, or are unsure about your visa status, you must follow public health directions. If you are feeling unwell, seek medical attention and get tested for COVID-19.

State and territory governments are offering free COVID-19 testing and treatment.

I have a Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) or Temporary Work (Skilled) visa (subclass 457)

Temporary Skill Shortage and subclass 457 visa holders who have been stood down but not laid off due to COVID-19, will maintain a valid visa. Businesses will have the opportunity to extend your visa as per normal arrangements.

Businesses will be able to reduce your hours without you being in breach of your visa conditions or the business being in breach of their employer obligations.

Options if you have lost your job

If you have been laid off and are currently unemployed, you should find another employer within 60 days or make arrangements to leave Australia, where this is possible.

If you cannot return to your home country, you need to maintain a valid visa and follow Australia’s health advice where necessary.

Holders of temporary work visas currently employed in COVID-19 critical sectors – health care, aged and disability care, childcare, or agriculture and food processing – may be eligible for a  Temporary Activity Visa (subclass 408) Australian Government Endorsed Agreement Event  stream (COVID-19 Pandemic event visa) .

COVID-19 Pandemic event visa

If your temporary work visa is expiring, you are not working in a critical sector, you are unable to return home because of entry restrictions and you can’t meet the requirements for another visa, you still may be eligible for the COVID-19 Pandemic event visa.

You’ll need to demonstrate why you can’t meet the requirements for another visa. This could include a statement and evidence that you do not have access to sufficient funds to be able to pay a further visa application charge (VAC).