The Subclass 408 or COVID visa is officially going to end, in the last few days the Australian government announced this change, which left many surprised with this sudden news. So what can you do now to stay in Australia?
This visa was created during the pandemic in order to cover labor shortages and to support international students who were unable to leave Australia at that time when the borders remained closed to contain the health emergency.
So as you know, the official communication brings with it big changes and the first of them is that, starting February 2024, this visa will be closed for all applicants, so measures will be taken for its gradual closure. For now, it can only be extended for six months to applicants who already have a valid COVID visa, now, a fee of $405 Australian dollars has been added. Australian dollars.
If you have a 408 visa, will it still be valid?
It will continue as normal until its expiration date, so you should not worry until that date.
So, how can I extend my stay in Australia?
Our recommendation is that you start looking for options, if your goal is to stay in this country, it is definitely not worth spending your money renewing a visa that will be granted for such a short time, it is best to explore the world of possibilities that Australia has for your professional future.
What is the best option then?
From our experience, by continuing your studies, you will not only be able to work, increase your professional knowledge, but you will also develop your professional profile, add weight to your resume, increase your job opportunities and enjoy the immigration benefits of this type of visa.
The best programs to extend your visa
Without a doubt we are talking about the VET courses, they are composed of Certificates and Diplomas, the combination of these two is known as "package", on the other hand, we have the Masters, in Australia there is an excellent educational quality in terms of higher education, so, if you have a good level in the language are the first to which you should aim if you want to extend your time in Australia.
After completing your program of study
If you study any of these programs, you will be able to get certified in the trade you like the most, many of them are in the list of occupations of high labor demand, and these are the most important when starting an immigration path and the best thing is that, with the help of our business group, we will help you with job interviews in your area with which you will have the possibility of obtaining a sponsor to extend your visa and finally achieve your permanent residency.
You already know that together with the entire VETA team we support and advise you at all times in order to find the best way to meet your objectives and goals to stay in this country of opportunities. Do not wait any longer and schedule your FREE consultation.
