can a tourist visa holder work in australia

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Work Visas in Australia: Can I work legally on a tourist visa?

The Tourist or Visitor Visa in Australia has specific conditions for those who hold it. This blog post will talk about those requirements and which sort of visas that allow you to work in Australia.

The visa subclass 600 allows you to be in Australia as a tourist, for a cruise, or for medical treatment, for up to 12 months. Yet, working is not permitted. 

Actually, in order to apply for a Tourist Visa, you must have a round-trip plane ticket, as well as a  defined trip journey. Additionally, for each trimester you will spend on your trip, you should have $6.000 AUD which should be reflected in your bank statement.

However, if you are thinking about staying in Australia while working or studying, there are other visa types you can apply for.

Which visas allow me to work in Australia?

Student Visa (subclass 500) By holding this visa, you are able to stay in Australia for up to 5 years and in line with your enrolment. 

Key to know: You can apply online in or outside the country

Also, you can:

• be enrolled in a course of study in Australia
• work unlimited hours in any sector (before it was only 40 hours per fortnight)
• Bring your family members

Read more about i nternational students’ work limitations in Australia

Working Holiday visa (417) and Work and Holiday visa (462)

First of all, it is key to clarify that subclass 417 is mostly for European countries, such as Belgium, France, Germany and others. Whereas, subclass 462 applies to others like Argentina, Uruguay and Chile.

These 2 visa types let people 18 to 30 years old (with some exceptions) have an extended holiday in Australia and work here to help fund their trip.

Read more:  Working Holiday Visa: Age limit increased to 35 years

Regarding the requirements to apply, we can highlight a University Degree certificate and  IELTS  certificate for subclass 462, and High School Degree for subclass 417.

• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​You must have a passport from an eligible country
• You can work while you are here
• You can apply for a second Work and Holiday visa if you meet specific eligibility criteria

*If you want to know more, send us an email at [email protected]*

Australian Government endorsed events (COVID-19 Pandemic event)- subclass 408

With this visa you can:

• Remain in Australia for 12 months if you are working or have a job offer to work in critical sectors ( click here to know which sectors are considered )
• Remain in Australia for 6 months if you are working or have a job offer to work in any other sector in Australia
• Include members of the family unit in your application.

At the time of application you must:

• have evidence of your employment or an offer of employment
• hold a substantive visa with work rights that expires in 90 days or less, or that expired 28 days ago or less.

Click here to read more about COVID-19 Visa.

Are you still confused about if you’re eligible to apply for any of those visas? Book a FREE consultation with our team!

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Is it legal to look for work in Australia on a tourist visa?

• July 14, 2023

Welcome to your holiday in Australia, a destination that entices holidaymakers, tourists, and visitors from across the globe.

Each year, a significant number of tourist visas are processed, opening the door for countless individuals to explore this captivating continent country.

Between June and December 2022 alone, an impressive 612,530 visitor visas were granted, reflecting the immense popularity of Australia as a sought-after holiday spot.

From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the pristine wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, this remarkable land boasts a wealth of natural marvels and cultural treasures that continue to draw holiday -makers from far and wide.

Whether you yearn for the rugged beauty of the Outback, the sun-kissed beaches of the Gold Coast, or the vibrant ambiance of Melbourne, Australia promises a holiday experience like no other.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of this diverse land, as you create cherished memories that will forever hold a place in your heart.

A visitor visa (subclass 600) is a temporary visa that allows holders to holiday in  Australia as a tourist, visit family and friends, or go on a cruise from an Australian port.

But can I look for work on a holiday – tourist visa?

Those holidaying on a tourist visa are not permitted to look for work in Australia while holding this visitor visa .

Anyone wishing to visit Australia for a holiday as well as work should consider other visa alternatives such as a working holiday visa .

More information about holiday – tourist visas

Holiday – Tourist visas are granted to those who wish to visit Australia as a tourist whether to sight-see, visit family and friends, go on a cruise, or for any other purpose except for business or medical treatment.

Holders of a subclass 600 visitor visa can only stay for the period or dates specified on their visitor visa grant letter. The length of stay granted for each tourist visa varies for each applicant.

When processing applications, the Department of Home Affairs considers factors such as how long an applicant may want to stay in Australia as well as why they want to stay.

Applicants can request a preferred length of stay, however, it may not be granted.

Generally, a stay of three months is granted but a stay of up to 12 months may be approved in certain circumstances.

Tourist visa holders may study or train in Australia for up to three months, however, if the main reason for visiting Australia is for study, then a student visa may be more appropriate.

To be granted a visitor visa , applicants must:

• Intend to come to Australia to visit – holiday only
• Have enough money for their stay in Australia
• Not work in Australia
• Strong incentive to return home
• ( Visitor visa can be lodged onshore and the applicant needs to be in Australia when the decision is made)

A visitor visa can be granted with single or multiple entry. If a visa is granted with multiple entries, visa holders may leave and return to Australia for as long as the visa is valid.

If a visitor visa holder has been granted a visa with single entry and leaves Australia, they will have to apply for another visa to return.

A tourist – visitor visa cannot be extended. (The visitor visa holder can lodge another visitor visa while in Australia to extend their stay, strong evidence will need to be provided.)

In order to stay in Australia longer, visa holders must apply for another visa and will only be eligible if their current visa does not have a condition preventing them from staying longer in Australia.

Family members cannot be included in a tourist visa application. Each family member wanting to visit and holiday in Australia must submit an application for their own visa.

As with any visa, applicants must meet eligibility criteria to be considered for a visitor visa . Eligibility requirements include:

• Meeting health requirements
• Meeting character requirements
• Paying any outstanding debts to the Australian government

The cost of health checks, biometrics, police checks, etc in order to meet eligibility criteria are the responsibility of the applicant and are in addition to the visa application fee.

Visitor visa holders are also responsible for any healthcare costs they may incur while in Australia.

Tourist visas can take anywhere from five days to 30 days to process.

If you would like to learn more about visitor visas for your next holiday to Australia or any other visa, contact the experienced team of registered migration agents at Visa Solutions Australia. Book a consultation.

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Can You Convert a Tourist Visa to a Work Visa in Australia?

When planning a trip to Australia, many individuals might wonder if it is possible to convert their tourist visa into a work visa. While the answer is not a simple yes or no, there are certain pathways available for individuals who wish to work in Australia after entering the country on a tourist visa.

Requirements for Converting a Tourist Visa to a Work Visa

1. Eligibility: To convert a tourist visa to a work visa in Australia, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the Australian government. This may include having a job offer from an Australian employer, possessing the required skills and qualifications for the job, and meeting health and character requirements.

2. Visa Options: There are different visa options available for individuals who want to work in Australia. Some of the common work visa categories include the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186), and Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189).

3. Applying for the Work Visa: Once you meet the eligibility criteria and have chosen the appropriate work visa category, you can submit your application online through the official Australian government website or seek assistance from a registered migration agent.

Steps to Convert a Tourist Visa to a Work Visa

1. Research Visa Options: Before converting your tourist visa to a work visa, it is essential to research and understand the available visa options and their requirements. Each visa category has specific criteria that must be met.

2. Check Eligibility: After identifying the visa category that suits your situation, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. This may include having a valid job offer, meeting the skills assessment requirements, and demonstrating sufficient proficiency in the English language.

3. Gather Required Documents: Prepare all the necessary documents required for the work visa application, such as proof of identity, academic qualifications, employment references, and health and character assessments.

4. Lodge the Application: Submit your work visa application online through the Australian governments official website or consult a registered migration agent for assistance. Pay the applicable visa fees and provide all the required information and supporting documents.

5. Wait for a Decision: After submitting your application, the Australian government will assess your eligibility and make a decision. The processing time varies depending on the visa category and individual circumstances.

6. Receive the Visa Grant: If your work visa application is approved, you will receive a visa grant notification. The notification will specify the visa conditions, duration, and any additional requirements.

It is important to note that converting a tourist visa to a work visa is not guaranteed and depends on various factors. It is advisable to seek professional advice and assistance to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.

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Visa holders and migrants

Closing Loopholes: Additional Fair Work Act changes

The Australian Government has made further workplace laws as part of its ‘Closing Loopholes’ changes.

This may affect the information on this page.

Learn more at Closing Loopholes: Additional Fair Work Act changes .

For workplace advice in your language, you can:

• translate pages by choosing your language from the menu at the top of the page
• find information and resources in our Language help section
• call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask them to call us on 13 13 94.

Visa holders and migrant workers have the same workplace entitlements and protections as all other employees in Australia.

We provide free advice and assistance to all workers to help them understand these legally enforceable rights.

On this page:

Protections for migrant workers, pacific australia labour mobility scheme, pay and conditions, how we can help, tools and resources, related information.

The Fair Work Ombudsman is here to help you. We are an Australian Government agency who helps regulate Australian workplaces. You can't get into trouble or have your visa cancelled for contacting us to ask for information about your pay or other workplace rights.

Find out more about How we can help .

Case study – Vivek’s story

Vivek, an aged care worker, shares his story about how the Fair Work Ombudsman was able to help him understand his workplace rights and obligations. This gave him the knowledge and confidence to resolve his workplace issue.

Migrant workers in Australia have the same entitlements and protections under the Fair Work Act as other employees. This includes for things like:

• pay and wages
• protection from discrimination
• notice of termination and final pay.

Migrant workers continue to have these entitlements and protections regardless of their migration status under the Migration Act 1958 . This includes situations under the Migration Act when a migrant worker:

• has breached a condition of their visa
• doesn’t have work rights, or
• doesn’t have the right to be in Australia.

There may still be consequences under the Migration Act for migrant workers who don’t comply with their visa conditions or that Act. A breach of the Migration Act also doesn't affect the validity of an employment contract or a contract for services under the Fair Work Act.

For example, there may be situations where a worker on a student visa works over the cap of the hours they’re allowed to work under their visa. The worker is still entitled to receive their full workplace entitlements for all hours worked despite this breach. The worker also has the right to apply to a court or tribunal to recover unpaid wages and entitlements.

If you’re a migrant worker in breach of your visa conditions, you can still ask for our help to receive your minimum entitlements.

Example: Migrant worker not being paid for time worked

Leon is a kitchen hand in a restaurant. He has a student visa which only allows him to work for 48 hours per fortnight. Over the past month, his boss, Sam, makes him work 60 hours a fortnight.

When Leon checked his pay slips, he realised he was only paid for 48 hours each fortnight, not the 60 hours he worked.

When Leon raised the underpayment with Sam, Sam told Leon that Leon’s visa only allows him to work for 48 hours per fortnight. Sam also said he won’t pay Leon for the other 12 hours.

Leon knows that working more than 48 hours each fortnight may be breaching his student visa. But he also knows he is entitled to the entitlements and protections under the Fair Work Act.

Leon decides to contact us (the Fair Work Ombudsman) for information and help on what he can do next.

It's important to know the rules for your visa. Your visa may limit the type of work you can do in Australia. Some visas have rules about how many hours you can work (for example, international students), or what job you can do (for example, a seasonal worker).

The Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs) can give you information about:

• which visa to apply for
• your rights and responsibilities under a visa
• how to change and cancel your visa
• how to apply for permanent residency.

To check your current visa details and conditions you can:

• use Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO)
• contact the Department of Home Affairs .

For more information on workplace conditions for certain visa types, read our fact sheet on 482 and 457 visa holder's workplace rights and entitlements .

Paying for visa sponsorship

It's illegal for someone to ask for, receive, offer or provide a benefit in return for visa sponsorship or employment that requires visa sponsorship. This is called 'paying for visa sponsorship'. Examples of this include:

• an employer makes someone pay them money in exchange for sponsoring them on a Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482)
• an employer makes someone pay back some of their pay each week in exchange for a visa.

If you think your employer is engaging in 'paying for visa sponsorship' activity you can contact the Department of Home Affairs .

Cashback schemes

Cashback schemes are also illegal. A cashback scheme is where an employer unreasonably requires someone to pay them in exchange for a job.

For more information, see Deducting pay and overpayments .

If you need our help about any deductions, cashback schemes or if an employer is asking for payment of any kind as a condition of a job offer, you can Contact us .

Visa protections – the Assurance Protocol

Your employer can't cancel your visa, even if you've breached your visa conditions. Only Home Affairs can grant, refuse or cancel visas.

We have an arrangement with Home Affairs to support visa holders who come to us for help. Under this arrangement, visa holders can seek help without fear of visa cancellation, even if they've breached their work-related visa conditions. For more information, see Visa protections - Assurance Protocol .

The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme supports Australian businesses in hiring workers from 9 Pacific islands and Timor-Leste when there are not enough local workers available.

All employees under the PALM scheme have the same workplace rights as other employees in Australia. Find out more about your rights and entitlements on our Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme page.

For more information about the scheme, visit the Australian Government's Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme website .

Visa workers are entitled to the same minimum pay rates and workplace conditions as any other Australian employee with the same job in their workplace.

There are minimum pay rates that you have to be paid, based on the work you do. To find out the minimum pay rates for your job, use our Pay and Conditions Tool .

Salary requirements

Some visas have extra salary requirements. Find out more about salary requirements for 482, 186 and 187 visa holders on the Department of Home Affairs website .

Your employer needs to give you a payslip every time you get paid. To find out what a pay slip is and what should be on it, see Pay slips .

Hours of work

You can easily keep track of how long you've worked for with our Record my hours app , which is available in multiple languages.

Minimum conditions

You also have minimum conditions at work. Conditions are rules about what employees get at work, such as how many hours they work and how often they get a break. These conditions are set out under law and in legal documents including:

• an enterprise agreement
• the National Employment Standards .

We have information in different languages to help you understand your pay and what minimum conditions are when working in Australia on our Language help pages.

You can also watch our short video for information about Working in Australia.

Tax and superannuation

When you start a new job, you need to give your employer your Tax File Number (TFN). Your employer will take out tax from your salary or wage. Your payslips will show how much tax has been taken out.

For more information about tax, visit the ATO website .

If you're a temporary resident working in Australia, your employer may also have to pay super for you. Find out more about Super for temporary residents leaving Australia on the ATO website .

If you need our help, you can:

• read our step-by-step guide on how to fix a problem if you’re a migrant worker being treated unfairly
• call us on 13 13 94 (you can get a free interpreter by calling 13 14 50 first)
• tell us if you’re having a problem anonymously using our anonymous report form
• register for My account and ask us a question via our online form .

Getting help - International students

International students can come to us for help if they’re having workplace issues, without fear of their visa being cancelled. They can come to us for issues like not getting the right pay or other entitlements, like leave or notice of termination.

We have case study videos about how you can get help and how we can help resolve issues. Find out more on our Young workers and students page.

For information to help students studying and working in Australia, read our International students fact sheet .

• Pay and Conditions Tool
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• Visa holders and migrant workers - workplace rights and entitlements fact sheet
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• Safe Work Australia - Working safely in Australia information sheet

Have a workplace problem?

Problems can happen in any workplace. If you have a workplace problem, we have tools and information to help you resolve it.

Check out our Fixing a workplace problem section for practical information about:

• working out if there is a problem
• speaking with your employer or employee about fixing the problem
• getting help from us if you can't fix the problem.

The Fair Work Ombudsman acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, waters, skies and communities. We pay our respects to them, their Cultures, and Elders past, present and future.

Thank you for your feedback. If you would like to tell us more about the information you’ve found today you can complete our feedback form .

Please note that comments aren't monitored for personal information or workplace complaints. If you have a question or concern about your job, entitlements or obligations, please Contact us .

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• Fair Work Online: www.fairwork.gov.au
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Need language help?

Contacting the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50

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Call through the National Relay Service (NRS):

• For TTY: 13 36 77 . Ask for the Fair Work Infoline 13 13 94
• Speak & Listen: 1300 555 727 . Ask for the Fair Work Infoline 13 13 94

The Fair Work Ombudsman is committed to providing you with advice that you can rely on. The information contained in this fact sheet is general in nature. If you are unsure about how it applies to your situation you can call our Infoline on 13 13 94 or speak with a union, industry association or a workplace relations professional.

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Finding work as a visa holder

Skilled migration program.

As part of the skilled migration program, visas are available if you have skills and training in some occupations.

Find these occupations on the skilled occupation list on the Department of Home Affairs website.

If your skills match the skilled occupation list, you may be able to come to Australia as a skilled migrant.

You can start by expressing interest in applying for a visa to live and work in Australia.&nbsp;

Find out about submitting an expression of interest &nbsp;and getting your skills assessed on the Smart Move Australia website.

Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme

If you’re from one of the eligible Pacific Island countries or Timor-Leste, you may be able to join the PALM scheme.

Through this scheme, you can get temporary short-term or long-term work in agriculture or other industries.

The PALM scheme lets you gain valuable skills and experience and send income back to your family and community.

Find out more about how to apply on the PALM scheme website.

Looking for work

There may be other support available while you look for work in Australia if you have a temporary or permanent visa.

Find out more about looking for work .

Starting a business

You can start a business in Australia even if you’re not an Australian citizen.

Find out what you need to do to start a business as a non citizen on the business.gov.au website.

You can start by expressing interest in applying for a visa to live and work in Australia. 

Find out about submitting an expression of interest  and getting your skills assessed on the Smart Move Australia website.

Thank you for your feedback

Visas and Migration

Latest news.

For the latest immigration and citizenship news, see  News - Archive . 

Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app which you can download for free from the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android) . For more information, see our Step by step guide .  There is no Visa Application Charge (VAC) for an ETA, however there is an application service fee of AUD20 to use the Australian ETA app. European passport holders may be eligible for an eVisitor (subclass 651) . Don’t be Scammed We are aware of third-party websites purporting to be associated with the Department of Home Affairs (the Department), charging exorbitant fees to lodge ETAs on behalf of visa applicants. Be aware that you are being scammed if:

• you apply for your ETA via a website – ETAs can only be applied for using the ETA app 
• you pay more than AUD20 to lodge the application
• you are told to pay extra fees for premium service or extra charges for ‘expedited’ visa processing
• the information you are relying on hasn’t come from an official website ending in .gov.au

Some of the known websites which are not official Department-approved platforms to make an ETA application are:

• https://www.jsdimmigrations.com  
• https://www.jsdvisa.com  
• https://australiaevisas.org  
• https://australiavacationsonline.com
• https://www.ivisa.com/

If you choose to use one of these third-party websites, you risk:

• losing any upfront cash that you have paid to the agent
• having your ETA refused
• not being permitted on the flight to Australia
• being refused entry to Australia at the Australian border by the  Australian Border Force

In order to protect yourself from visa scams, you should only deal with reputable travel agents, or official Australian Government channels via the Department of Home Affairs website .

If you are aware of, or suspect a scam in relation to ETAs, or other visas to Australia, please report it to Australia's Border Watch by visiting homeaffairs.gov.au/report .

Information on visas to Australia can be found on the  Department of Home Affairs website .

Explore visa options  on the department's website to help you find the visa most likely to meet your specific circumstances.

Visa applications, fees & processing times

Most visa applications can be lodged online by creating an  ImmiAccount . This is our preferred method of visa lodgement to helps us process your application faster.

If you are lodging an application in the US, please refer to the following information before submitting your application:

• Processing times
• Visa requirements  (health, character, biometrics)
• Translation of documents not in English

Please note, you should not book flights or make travel commitments until you have a valid visa to travel to Australia. The Department of Home Affairs will not be liable for any financial loss incurred by travellers whose visa application was finalised later than expected, or where an application is not successful.

Visa and citizenship applications are managed by the Department of Home Affairs. Embassy staff are unable to assist with general visa or citizenship enquiries. 

The Department of Home Affairs website has the most up to date and comprehensive information on applying for visas and citizenship. The website also has useful definitions and tools to help you understand the department’s requirements. Visit the website at Immigration and citizenship .

If you are having trouble locating information on the department’s website, the Home Affairs Digital Assistant may be able to help. The Digital Assistant can help you find information on Australian visas, citizenship and border entry. Visit the  Immigration and citizenship  website and click the Ask a question   Digital Assistant button to get started.

Global Service Centre

If you require additional information, you may telephone the Global Service Centre on +61 2 6196 0196, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm your local time.

International calls may be subject to charges imposed by your local carrier. You may wish to consider using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider to avoid potentially high charges.

Using an interpreter

When you call the GSC, select option 6 to engage a Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) interpreter in your language. Option 6 can be selected straight after dialling the GSC number.

Alternatively, a TIS interpreter can also be engaged directly via:

•    TIS website:  Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) or

•    Home Affairs website See:  Family and friends helping with your application .

Compliments, complaints and suggestions

Your feedback is valuable to the Department of Home Affairs. The department uses your feedback to improve services and investigate and respond to any issues of concern. You can find more information on the department’s website at  Compliments, complaints and suggestions .

Allegations related to suspicious border activities

If it doesn’t feel right, flag it anonymously with Border Watch. Border Watch is the single collection point for the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Border Force (ABF) for allegations related to suspicious border activities and is not limited to immigration and citizenship. One small observation could help stop a much larger border crime.  You can report suspicious immigration, customs and border related activity via the  Border Watch Online Report .

Beware of Visa Scams

To avoid being scammed, you can check the Register of Migration Agents on the  OMARA website , to receive the protections of an OMARA registered Migration Agent.

There are Australian registered migration agents working all around the world. These agents are subject to the same Code of Conduct, professional development and regulations as registered migration agents based in Australia. More information about Australia's efforts to ensure the integrity of the migration advice profession is available at:  www.mara.gov.au .

Further information on visa scams is available on the Department of Home Affairs website .

Amit Taya (Perth): +61 426 488 909   |  Harmandeep Kaur (Adelaide): +61 8 8120 4199

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Posted by : ISA Migrations

How to Convert a Visitor Visa to a Work Permit in Australia

You must apply for a visitor or tourist visa under class 600 if you intend to travel to Australia for tourism, business, or to see family. You must follow the law and regulations and maintain a reputation while visiting any foreign country.

A visitor visa permits you to grow with the Tourist Visa Subclass 600. Additionally, it enables you to take any course of not more than three months. One can also reconnect with old acquaintances, discover new locations, and learn more about another person’s culture and heritage. However, you can’t work in Australia while being on an Australian tourist visa 600 .

But if you want to do a job, you can apply for another visitor visa with working rights or a working holiday visa.

Work in Australia on a Visitor Visa 600

Australian law does not allow you to look for work while visiting Australia on a visitor visa. Once you obtain a guest visa, you cannot extend, renew it or change its status to one of another kind, such as a working visa. You must apply for a new visiting visa to prolong your time spent in Australia as a visitor. The best approach for entering Australia is to obtain a tourist visa lawfully. You must stay in Australia for a specific period, which might be between three and twelve months. You may acquire more in-depth information about Australia’s way of life, working culture, and educational system.

You must contact an immigration agent in Adelaide to know more about visa 600 extension and work permit while holding a visitor visa. He will help you to get working rights or convert your tourist visa to a working visa in the best possible ways.

Visitor Visa Extension

The status of a visitor visa cannot be changed to another type, such as a working visa, nor can it be renewed once it has been issued. You must apply for a new visitor visa to prolong your time in Australia as a visitor.

You must demonstrate that you have enough money for each application and that your stay in Australia is temporary. You cannot apply for a new visa if your visiting visa has the restriction “No further stay.”

Obtaining a Work Permit

A work visa is necessary to accept a job offer that permits the candidate to work for an Australian employer. Applying for a working (holiday) visa is typically a simple process if you are eligible for the Working Holiday Visa Programme, which is only open to passport holders of specific countries.

For those who qualify, coming first on a visitor visa subclass 600 and then applying for a working holiday visa (WHV) and using it to start working right away may be the best course of action.

However, most of those interested in working in Australia do not match the requirements for the WHV. You have another option to go for a work visa in Australia to be eligible for a job.

Many people have the choice of skilled immigration or employer-sponsored visas. Even if they are sometimes the most expensive option, most people still think of getting student visas.

Following are the visa options available to you:

General Skilled Migration

You must get to some stage to receive an invitation to apply for a visa to fulfil the conditions for skilled migration. Recently, you need 65 points to receive an invitation due to the recent sharp decline in many invitations.

You must have achieved a specific score on an approved English exam, passed a skills assessment, been a certain age, worked in a given occupation, etc. Before submitting your information online on SkillSelect.

It may take months or even years for applicants for skilled migration to fulfil prerequisites, pass skills evaluations, and obtain the necessary score on English exams. They may be away from their home and loved ones for a considerable time.

Employer-Sponsored Visa

For Australian firms that can’t search for a suitable Australian worker within Australia, the Employer-sponsored working visa is a way to get a skilled person from outside Australia. If employers indicate they are willing to sponsor an overseas worker, they may be contacted directly. Please be aware that the worker’s employer must also satisfy the visa criteria.

Australia is a country where natural beauty attracts tourists with chances to work and lead fulfilling lives. Millions of people around the world are drawn to Australia by its bustling cities, high job rates, breathtaking natural beauty, and many more attractions.

But to migrate to Australia, you must hold a valid visa that allows you to stay there. A visitor visa subclass 600 can be a way by which you can travel to Australia for the short term. But it does not carry working rights. That is why, if you want to work in Australia, you must apply for a work permit, and to work while visiting, you can go for a working holiday visa .

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Can I search job in Australia on Tourist Visa?

No, You are not allowed to work on tourist visa. Australia is undoubtedly an island with many outstanding beautiful landscapes, a variety of flora and fauna. Moreover, it is a country with a multicultural society where one can experience various cultures, traditions related to a particular nation by exploring new ideas and knowledge.

The best way to get the allowance to visit Australia legally is by getting a tourist visa. It makes you stay in Australia for a particular period, and it can be up to 3, 6, and 12 months. This helps you explore Australia's living, working culture, education system, and you get to know about Australia in depth.

The reason to grant an Australian Tourist visa is to allow the candidates to meet their relatives/family and exploring new natural places, spending holidays and any business meeting. But, it holds some conditions which are essential to maintain your visa status; please have a look at these:

• Paid work is not allowed. Only Volunteer work can be done.

• Can enrol in study only for three month

But there are some conditions to follow for a person holding a visitor visa. Candidates with a tourist visas cannot work in Australia. Anyone who doesn't follow the conditions and gets caught faces severe consequences.

However, in some situations, a visitor visa holder cannot extend or convert his/her visa to another type of visa, whether student, work, or another visa subclass.

If you are not following the conditions as per your visa, there are consequences by the Immigration Department; they can cancel your visa and put you in an Immigration detention centre until all necessary arrangements for your deportations are in process.

If you overstay or work after expiring, your visa expires, and you are caught by immigration; then, they would kick off you and ban you from re-entering in Australia for three years.

Various factors lure visitors to find work in Australia; for example, Australia values overseas qualification and experiences and pay the highest pay scale to all employees. Also, this nation has a better quality of life with the availability of all amenities at the best standard, such as an efficient healthcare system and a social support system. Furthermore, once one becomes a permanent resident of Australia, they can benefit from a pension, which is again helpful to live independently. What is more, this country has less crime rate and more job opportunities related to different sectors. Therefore, when people come to Australia on a Visitor visa, they are greedy to work here and settle down instead of returning to their home country.

 Only a person with proper job qualifications can apply for a working visa that helps you to stay and work in Australia.

According to your specific requirements, you can apply under various streams for visa subclass 600

• Tourist stream [apply in Australia]

• Tourist stream [apply outside Australia]

• Sponsored family stream

• Business visitor stream

• Approved Destination Status stream

• Frequent traveller stream [for citizens of people's Republic of China]

For any enquiry related to searching job in Australia on Tourist Visa, contact us at AEC GLOBAL; book your appointment with our expert here.  He/She will provide you with proper information and help answer all your queries.

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How to convert Australian visitor visa to working visa?

You would like to come to work and live in Australia.

You think that the easiest way is to just come to Australia on a visitor visa and then convert it to a working visa.

Your friends told you “Everything is easier once you are there”. Well, for most it is not going to be that easy.

That may used to be a case, but lately it is getting harder and harder to get a working visa for Australia.

Extending your visitor visa

Once you hold a visitor visa, you cannot extend it or convert it into another type of visa, such as a working visa. If you want to extend your stay in Australia as a visitor, you need to apply for another visitor visa.

Many people can meet requirements only for Visitor visa Subclass 600.

If they apply for this type of visa while they are outside of Australia, visa application charge (VAC) is $140. However, once they come to Australia, if they want to apply for another visitor visa, VAC is $345. If they want to later apply for their third visitor visa, VAC is $1,045.

These are only costs for extending your stay while you hold a visitor visa and want to apply for extension (another visitor visas). With every application you need to show to have sufficient funds and that your intentions are only to stay temporarily in Australia. If you have a condition “No further stay” in your visitor visa, that means that you cannot apply for another visa.

Getting that working visa

If you can meet requirements for Working Holiday Visa Program, which is open only to passport holders of certain countries, in that case applying for a working (holiday) visa is usually going to be a smooth process.

This may even be the better strategy for eligible applicants to first come on a visitor visa and if or when they find a job, then apply for a working holiday visa (WHV) and then use their WHV by working from the first day.

However, most people who are interested to work in Australia do not meet eligibility criteria for WHV. For many, options are Skilled migration or Employer sponsored visas. Majority of people find student visas as an option which is often the most expensive choice.

Skilled Migration

To meet requirements for skilled migration, you need to reach a point to be issued an invitation to apply for a visa. Lately, the number of invitation has significantly decreased and currently you need to have 65 points to get an invitation.

Prior to putting your information online, on SkillSelect, you should have reached a certain score on English approved test, passed skills assessment, be of certain age, occupation etc.

Applicants for skilled migration may take months or even years to meet requirements, pass skills assessment and/or achieve required score on English tests. That means that they may be away from their home and family for a very long time. Therefore, we often advise our clients who are outside of Australia that if they meet requirements for skilled migration or need to work more on their eligibility, to rather work on it while they are outside Australia.

You can find more information about skilled migration working visa on our article which is  here

Employer Sponsored Visas

The Employer sponsored working visa is an option for Australian employers who cannot find a suitable Australian worker within Australia. There are employers who advertise that they are happy to sponsor an overseas worker and you can contact them directly. Please note that both the employer and the worker must meet the requirements for visa.

If you need assistance with visitor, working or any other visa type, please be free to contact us. Our best contact is  [email protected] .

Vera Radisavljevic

Solicitor and Registered Migration Agent MARN 1681254

Disclamer: Your use of the above text or the receipt of any information from this article or website  www.baxvel.com  is not intended to create nor does it create a solicitor (migration agent) – client relationship between you and the writer (Vera Radisavljevic and/or Baxvel Pty Ltd) and it is not a legal/immigration advice.

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5 ways to get a job on your Australian working holiday

A working holiday in Australia is sure to serve up once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences, but also unique work opportunities. Here are five ways to get a job on your Australian working holiday.

Use a working holiday support program

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If you’re looking for ongoing support to help you on your working holiday journey, a work program might be ideal. Providers of work programs, such as  The Global Work & Travel Co. ,  Work N Holiday  and  Alliance Abroad , provide guaranteed work opportunities for working holiday makers throughout the duration of their stay. The program can include airport pick-up, an induction to help you get established, support finding housing and social activities.

Meet potential employers face to face

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If you’re comfortable beginning your job search after you arrive in Australia, meeting potential employers face-to-face can be a great way to secure work, especially in the hospitality industry. Hit the streets and stop into bars and restaurants that may need bar tenders or servers. Keep in mind that anyone responsible for serving alcohol in Australia needs to complete  Responsible Service of Alcohol  (RSA) training and receive an RSA Certificate.

Conduct a job search online

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There are several powerful tools – online and otherwise – that can help you secure a job on your working holiday. You can find a range of job search engines in Australia which showcase open positions specifically suited to backpackers, or browse popular employment platforms like Seek  and  Indeed . When using these online job boards, it may be helpful to limit your search to short-term or contract roles, which are more likely to hire applicants on a working holiday visa.

How to set up your life in Australia

Enlist a recruitment agency

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If you’re looking for some help in your job search journey, a recruitment agency can be a helpful resource. Recruitment agencies can help you search for jobs that relate to your skill set, apply for roles that interest you and secure employment. Some agencies, like The Kingsmen , focus specifically on jobs in fields such as hospitality and construction which are perfect for travellers and working holiday makers.

Get work along the way

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One of the best things about a working holiday is the freedom. If you have a sense of adventure and you’re keen to move around Australia, then it’s possible to find work as you travel. Leads could come from anywhere, so keep your ears open around your hostel and keep an eye out for job postings. The Australian government has also compiled a  Harvest Guide  for travellers who want to help pick, harvest and gather produce in Australia’s rural – yet beautiful – farming towns.

Note : Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority.  The visa granting authority is the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. For up-to-date information, please refer to their website:  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder .

The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.  Please consult with an Australian qualified immigration lawyer or migration agent if you are seeking legal advice.

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Passports and visas when you go to Australia

Most NZ citizens can visit, live and work in Australia without applying for a tourist or work visa. NZ permanent residents need to apply for visas to Australia.

You need a valid NZ passport to go to Australia.

Most adult New Zealanders can get and renew their passports online. All children under 16, including babies, need their own passport.

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If you’re an eligible NZ citizen you get a Special Category visa on entry into Australia. The Special Category visa allows you to live, study and work in Australia for as long as you like.

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If you’re not an NZ citizen

If you’re not an NZ citizen and want to move to or travel in Australia, you need a visa. This includes NZ permanent residents who are not entitled to a Special Category visa. There are different types of visas and different rules for each. Find the Australian visa that applies to your situation.

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How to apply

Who can apply.

To work in Australia through the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417), you must

• be a Canadian citizen
• be between 18 and 35 years old (inclusive)
• have a valid Canadian passport

Other requirements may apply, check  Australia’s website  for more details.

What type of work visa do I need?

You need to apply for a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).

Do I need a formal job or internship offer?

No, you don’t need a job offer (prearranged contract of employment) or a formal internship offer.

In  most cases , you can work for the same employer for a maximum of 6 months.

How long can I stay and work?

You can participate in Australia’s Working Holiday program up to 3 times (for a total of 36 months).

For the first 12-month participation:  You can work for up to 12 months (typically 6 months maximum per employer) and study for up to 4 months. The total participation is 12 months.

For the second 12-month participation:  You can work for up to 12 months and study for up to 4 months. The total participation is 12 months.

• You can only participate if you completed at least  3 months  of “ Specified work ” while holding your  first  Working Holiday visa.

For the third 12-month participation:  You can work for up to 12 months and study for up to 4 months. The total participation is 12 months.

• You can only participate if you completed at least  6 months  of “ Specified work ” while holding your  second  Working Holiday visa.

Specified work

Specified work is work that is undertaken in a specific field or industry (typically in agriculture, construction, fishing, or mining) in a designated regional area (typically rural or remote communities).

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Australia invites 16m Britons to work 'down under' after extending working holiday visa age limit to 35

From Saturday, 1 July, Australia's long-awaited amendment to its working holiday visa will see the age limit increased to 35 - giving millions of people the chance to realise their dream of starting a new life in Oz.

By Siba Jackson, news reporter

Friday 30 June 2023 13:02, UK

Millions of Britons are being given a chance to work down under after Australia extended its working holiday visa age limit.

A long-awaited amendment coming into force on Saturday, 1 July, will see the work visa offered to people aged 18-35 - a five-year increase on the original limit of 30.

It is the first change to the visa since it was introduced in 1975, under the UK- Australia Free Trade Agreement (UKFTA).

Further changes to the working holiday visa are expected exactly one year later on 1 July, 2024, when Britons will be able to apply to live and work in Australia for up to three years without any specified work requirements.

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The offer is likely to be considered by many young people living in the UK - as new research reveals how 45% of 25 to 34-year-olds regret not taking a gap year when they had the chance.

The data, published by Tourism Australia, the nation's tourist board, also found that almost one in 10 people surveyed believed they were too old to start again.

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Some 43% of people aged 25 to 34 are considering working abroad in the hope of advancing their careers, the figures revealed.

The offer could prove tempting as it emerged the UK jobs market had more candidates going for fewer jobs last month - with wages stagnant and redundancies rising.

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A survey of 400 recruitment and employment consultancies said May saw the biggest spike in jobseekers for the past two-and-a-half years.

Australia, which basks in 2,800 hours of sunshine every year, is an attractive option thanks to having a higher minimum wage than the UK, together with one of the lowest unemployment rates in almost 50 years.

Tourism Australia's regional general manager for UK & Northern Europe, Sally Cope, said the five-year extension would "present a world of openings to young professionals", as well as an "incredible lifestyle", with Australia "ready to welcome them".

In January, Australia announced a review of its entire visa and immigration system after the COVID pandemic left the nation grappling with a shortage of workers.

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Meanwhile in the UK, visa rules in the UK were amended last October to allow farmers to hire foreign poultry workers ahead of Christmas turkey rush.

The president of the National Farmers' Union told Sky News that Brexit and the loss of freedom of movement have contributed to a higher cost for the EU's seasonal workers.

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Australian government quietly suspends new working holiday visa applications for Chinese nationals

Nathan Que quit his job in China and waited 10 months for a chance to come to Australia for a once-in-a-lifetime working holiday.

But now he feels "cheated" by the government, along with tens of thousands of other working holiday seekers from China.

Mr Que said many of them had been pondering the same question — "is China being targeted?"

For many young people around the world, a working holiday visa is seen as a precious chance to experience life in Australia.

In 2015, the program opened to 5,000 Chinese applicants annually under a free trade agreement between Australia and China.

The agreement said the program aimed to "increase demand for tourism services and support the development of Australia's tourism sector, particularly in rural Australia".

The demand to come to Australia is there, but according to applicants the chance to obtain a working holiday visa has all but evaporated.

No announcement about visa suspension

According to information on the Department of Home Affairs website, when a country's quota of working holiday visas was close to full, it would be "suspended" and visa applications from its citizens would no longer be taken.

Five countries on the list eligible for the visa have been tagged as suspended: Brazil, China, Switzerland, Thailand and Turkey. 

A footnote on China's "suspended" tag in the Home Affairs documents said the suspension was linked to "a high volume of interest".

Out of the suspended countries, only China's annual cap of 5,000 visas is far from being filled.

Altogether, only 406 working holiday visas for new applicants in China have been issued in this financial year, according to Department of Home Affairs records.

It is unclear why applications from China have been suspended when the cap hasn't been hit.

The ABC has sought an explanation from the government.

"There were a couple of countries on the list, but it only stopped [processing] for Chinese applicants. I don't know why," Mr Que said.

"There was no announcement, no communication."

Mr Que said he had wanted to come to Australia for a working holiday after his friend spent a year in Darwin in 2016.

"He told me I would be seeing a different world … and I would be able to meet a lot of people from different parts of the world," Mr Que said.

Angry applicants left in the dark

Lily Li, who's also in China, has been longing for a working holiday in Australia.

She had been waiting for her visa pre-application to be processed.

But last week her application — along with tens of thousands of others according to Chinese media reports — was marked as "expired", she said.

That has left her furious and disappointed, but she is also unsure about what she can do.

For China and other countries where people queue up for a working holiday visa, a pre-application is required.

The next step is meant to be random selection until the quota is met.

Ms Li received a message last year from the Department of Home Affairs, which has been seen by the ABC, saying she would be included in the "next random selection round" and her registration would expire on April 30, 2024.

"Even until the last days before the expiry, people were waiting for miracles," Ms Li said.

The "random selection", however, never happened.

"We'd all been waiting," Ms Li said.

"I mean, if you are not planning to select [applicants], why open the visa?"

She wasn't alone in her anger.

Hundreds of young people have left angry messages on the Australian embassy's official account on Chinese social media Weibo, asking for an explanation.

"You are a liar," read one of the messages.

"Straightforward response is the way to solve problems," another comment said.

People have continued to message the embassy over Weibo asking for answers.

The visa application issues come after the government tried to drum up interest in tourism even further with a $125 million Come and Say G'day campaign launched in late June last year.

It was seen millions of times on Chinese social media.

The Department of Home Affairs has been contacted for comment.

Additional reporting by  Natasya Salim .

• X (formerly Twitter)

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Biden's DHS promotes ways for visa holders to stay in US after losing work amid major layoffs

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is reminding some visa holders that there are options for staying in the country after getting laid off or fired.

"When H-1B or other noncitizen workers are laid off, they may not be aware of their options and may wrongly assume that they have no choice but to leave the country within 60 days," USCIS said on X Tuesday, along with a link to the guidance.

The guidelines, which were updated last month, offer several options to individuals on work visas who have lost their jobs "either voluntarily or involuntarily," including filing an application for a change of nonimmigrant status, adjustment of status or a "compelling circumstances" employment authorization document. The guidelines also note that an individual can extend their stay if they are the beneficiary of a nonfrivolous petition to change employers.

US AGENCY RAISES 'SERIOUS CONCERNS' ABOUT TECH VISA LOTTERY

"If one of these actions occurs within the up to 60-day grace period, the nonimmigrant’s period of authorized stay in the United States can exceed 60 days, even if they lose their previous nonimmigrant status," the guidelines read. "If the worker takes no action within the grace period, they and their dependents may then need to depart the United States within 60 days, or when their authorized validity period ends, whichever is shorter."

The Biden administration in October proposed reforms to the H-1B visa program, which has become controversial over the years over claims that it is abused by tech companies to undercut more expensive American workers.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

However, the new rules laid out by the Department of Homeland Security were designed to streamline the process and provide more flexibility for both employers and workers. The new rules, which became official in January, also sought to combat fraud and abuse of the H-1B process.

"We’re always looking for ways to bolster integrity and curtail the potential for fraud while improving and streamlining our application processes," USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou said in a statement at the time.

BIDEN ADMIN PROPOSES REFORMS TO CONTROVERSIAL H-1B VISA PROGRAM

The USCIS post comes amid a flurry of layoffs by some of the country's largest employers, with Walmart announcing on Tuesday layoffs that will affect several hundred jobs at its campus offices, The Associated Press reported.

"While the overall numbers are small in percentage, we are focused on supporting each of our associates affected by these changes," Walmart Chief People Officer Donna Morris said of the layoffs in an internal memo obtained by FOX Business, adding that employees impacted by the change had already been informed and that the company will "work closely with them in the coming days and months to navigate the best path forward."

Walmart's move followed similar announcements by Google, Tesla and Microsoft, according to Business Insider, with Tesla announcing a 10% cut to its workforce in April. Google cut about 12,000 jobs last year, with the report noting that those cuts have continued into 2024.

FOX Business reported last year that Google and Microsoft are among the companies with the most approved H-1B petitions, with most of the visas going to workers from India and China. Amazon and IBM were among the other top companies to use the program, with Amazon having the most approved petitions of any company.

The White House did not immediately respond to a Fox News Digital request for comment.

Reached for comment by Fox News Digital, a USCIS spokesperson stressed that the policy in question has been in force for many years.

The spokesperson also noted that the visa program is important to the U.S. economy, noting that it helps draw in global talent to help keep the U.S. competitive.

Original article source: Biden's DHS promotes ways for visa holders to stay in US after losing work amid major layoffs

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H-1B visa holders: Facing layoffs in the US? Here's what you can do

The uscis outlines various avenues for h-1b visa holders to stay in the us after losing their jobs.

Representative image

Listen to This Article

Us visa fee hike: take a look at the new h-1b, l-1 and eb-5 visa costs, h-1b visa rules from april 1: pay more, file correctly or risk rejection, fy 2025 h-1b visa registration period extended by us: all you need to know, h-1b visa registration deadline is march 22 for indians: all you must know, here's how much royalty tata group companies will pay for the tata name, fm sitharaman flags retail f&o frenzy: here's why investors should be wary, equity savings funds: where to invest during volatility as polls approach, big relief for mutual fund investors: sebi eases aadhaar-pan kyc rules, top travel credit cards for your long-awaited summer vacation, uk's graduate route visa to continue: key benefits for indian students.

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First Published: May 16 2024 | 10:00 AM IST

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Australia Visitor Visa for Filipino citizens: Your tourist visa guide

With its stunning natural beauty, exciting cities, and unique wildlife, it's no wonder that so many people want to visit Australia. If you're a Filipino national planning a trip to Australia , you must apply for a Australia Visitor Visa .

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about applying for this Australian tourist visa , including the requirements, Australian visa application, and visa fees.

Australian Visa system: Australia Visa types for Filipino citizens

As a Filipino citizen, you can apply for various types of visas to visit Australia. Here are the most popular visa categories:

• Australia Visitor Visa : This tourist visa is available to Philippines passport holders wanting to explore Australia as a tourist. It also permits you to study in Australia for less than three months.

You must complete an online application form to apply for this visa and provide your biometric information. There may also be instances where a phone interview is necessary.

Student Visa: If you plan to study in Australia for over three months, you must apply for a student visa. You must be accepted in an Australian educational institution to apply for this visa.

Skilled Visa: If you have skills or qualifications in demand in Australia, you may be eligible for a skilled visa. It’ll allow you to work legally in the country.

Australia Working Holiday visa: This is a temporary work visa for passport holders 18 to 30 years old who want to spend an extended holiday in Australia and work during their stay.

Family Visa: If you have family members who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, you may be able to apply for a family visa to join them in Australia.

Australian Tourist Visa: All about the Australian Visitor Visa for Filipinos

The Australian Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is the travel document that allows Filipinos to enter Australia for tourist or business activities. At iVisa, we can help and guide you throughout the application process to ensure you have all the necessary support for a successful visa application.

How long can I stay in Australia with a Visitor Visa?

The Visitor Visa grants a stay for three, six, or twelve months ; the consular officer will decide depending on your background. Remember to keep within the allowed stay period.

Eligibility criteria for the Australia Visitor Visa

To be eligible for the Australia Visitor Visa , you must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a valid passport from the Philippines
• Undergo a medical examination
• ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Be of good character
• Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
• Intend to only visit Australia temporarily for tourism or business visitor activities or study for less than three months.
• Meet all other visa conditions and requirements below.

Australia Visitor Visa requirements for children from the Philippines

If you plan to travel to Australia with your child from the Philippines, please note that kids need a visa too. Here are the requirements for your child's visa application:

• Your child's birth certificate must include both parents' names or a family book with both parents' names.
• You will need to provide ID cards of both parents or adoption papers with the ID of the guardians.
• If your child is traveling alone or with only one parent , you must present a Form 1229 along with the application. This form must be completed and signed by both parents or legal guardians and be accompanied by a copy of their driver's license or passport (or other identification with signature and photo).
• If your child is traveling without a parent or guardian and is not staying with a relative or on an organized tour, you must also include Form 1257 - Undertaking Declaration . It must be completed and signed by the person providing accommodation and responsible for your child during their stay in Australia.

Australia Visa Guide: Visa application process

The Visitor Visa comprises the most complex process among Australian tourist visas. You can apply through the government website or through us by following the steps below.

We aim to offer a quicker and simpler process for travelers, cutting down paperwork so you can focus on your trip:

• Step 1: Complete the visa application form on the website or on our app . You must provide personal information, travel history, hotel reservations, and passport details.
• Step 2: Double-check all the information to avoid mistakes. Pay the visa fee using Paypal, Venmo, Amazon Pay, or a credit or debit card.
• Step 3: Upload the required documents and click ‘Submit’. Attend the Australian Visa Application Centre appointment to provide your biometric information and undergo the health exam.

After that, you must wait for the government’s answer. Once approved, you can pack your bags and travel to Australia!

We also recommend downloading the iVisa app to keep track of your documents electronically. You can even track the status of your application and receive real-time alerts.

After applying for an Australia Visitor Visa

After filling out the visitor visa application form, a phone call interview is sometimes required. We’ll let you know if that’s the case. However, usually, you must visit an Australian Visa Application Centre or an Australian Biometrical Collections Centre.

Once this process is complete, you can expect a confirmation email with your application ID and reference number, which you can use to track your application's progress. You should also expect to hear from the Australian Government regarding any additional information or documents they may need from you to process your application.

Australia Visitor Visa processing times

Our service includes two stages. The first is our application processing, where we assist you in completing the visa application, reviewing all the information provided, and scheduling an appointment for biometric information submission at a VAC.

• Our processing time for Filipino citizens is 15 days .

Once you have submitted all required documents, provided biometric information, and passed the medical examination, the Australian government will process your visa application.

On average, the government takes 28 days (90% of applications) to process visa requests from Filipino citizens. It's important to note that the processing time may vary depending on the Embassy's workload.

We advise all travelers from the Philippines to apply well in advance to avoid disappointments.

Additional resources for further information about the Australia Visitor Visa

We know how to have the latest information make a difference in travel planning. Here are some handy websites and communication channels to consult if you need further information:

• Australian Government Department of Home Affairs
• Tourism Australia
• Australian Border Force
• Australian Embassy in the Philippines

Contact us for more info about your Australian Visa application

If you have any questions or concerns about the Australia visa for citizens of the Philippines, please don't hesitate to contact our customer service team via online chat or WhatsApp . We're ready to assist!

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Australia Visitor Visa for Vanuatuan citizens: Requirements and application

• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/

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New USCIS Rules for H-1B Workers After Layoffs

USCIS issues guidelines for H-1B layoffs impacting immigrant workers at companies like Google and Walmart. Stay informed on visa terminations.

Key Takeaways:

• Laid-off H-1B visa holders can act within 60 days to extend their stay in the U.S. using specific USCIS options.
• H-1B portability allows transitioning to new jobs smoothly by starting employment as soon as a petition is filed.
• Filing non-frivolous applications can stop the accrual of unlawful presence, maintaining lawful status until the application is adjudicated.

What Options Do H-1B Visa Holders Have After Being Laid Off?

The recent wave of layoffs by major companies such as Google, Tesla, and Walmart has left many H-1B visa holders in a state of uncertainty. These immigrant workers, who contribute significantly to the tech industry and other sectors, now face the challenge of maintaining their authorized stay in the United States. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced new guidelines to help H-1B visa holders navigate this difficult period. This article outlines various options available for H-1B visa holders post-termination and provides practical advice for staying in the country beyond the 60-day grace period.

Can H-1B Visa Holders Stay in the US Beyond 60 Days After Job Loss?

Yes, H-1B visa holders can stay in the United States beyond the initial 60-day grace period if they take specific actions. According to the USCIS guidelines, workers have several options to extend their stay.

Actions to Take Within the 60-Day Grace Period

• File for a Change of Nonimmigrant Status
• File an Adjustment of Status Application
• Apply for a “Compelling Circumstances” Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• Become a Beneficiary of a Nonfrivolous Petition to Change Employer

Taking any of these actions within the grace period allows H-1B visa holders to stay in the United States for more than 60 days, even if they lose their previous nonimmigrant status. However, failing to act within this period may necessitate leaving the country within 60 days or by the end of the authorized validity period, whichever comes first.

What Is the Concept of H-1B Portability?

The concept of portability enables eligible H-1B nonimmigrants to transition smoothly to new employment opportunities. This flexibility allows individuals to begin working for a new employer as soon as a nonfrivolous H-1B petition is filed without waiting for its approval. This is particularly beneficial for laid-off workers who secure new job offers.

Can H-1B Visa Holders Apply for Adjustment of Status and EAD Simultaneously?

Yes, workers eligible to apply for immigrant visas through self-petitioning can submit their petitions while applying to adjust their status. During the processing of their adjustment applications, these workers can stay in the U.S. and acquire an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). For individuals who have been granted immigrant visa petitions based on employment and face significant challenges, a one-year EAD may be available.

Also of Interest:

Understanding h-1b portability: switching employers, new zealand immigration decline: over 50,000 locals depart in march 2024, how can laid-off h-1b workers extend their stay in the united states.

When a non-immigrant worker’s employment ends, either voluntarily or involuntarily, they typically may take one of the following actions to remain in a period of authorized stay in the United States:

• File an Application for a Change of Nonimmigrant Status: You can apply to change your status to another nonimmigrant category, such as becoming a dependent of a spouse (e.g., H-4, L-2), changing to student status (F-1), or visitor status (B-1/B-2). Note that while on a visitor visa, you cannot work in the US.

File an Application for Adjustment of Status: This is applicable if you qualify for permanent residence (green card).

File an Application for a “Compelling Circumstances” EAD: If you face significant circumstances that justify a one-year EAD, you can apply for this authorization.

Become a Beneficiary of a Nonfrivolous Petition to Change Employer: If you find a new job and your new employer files a nonfrivolous H-1B petition on your behalf, you can start working for the new employer as soon as the petition is filed.

What Really changed from previous rules? A closer look

The USCIS likely aims to address misconceptions and lack of awareness among nonimmigrant workers regarding their options after job loss. The update serves as a reminder that even after termination of employment, individuals are not immediately required to leave the U.S. and may have several avenues to explore to maintain their legal status and potentially continue working.

Previous Rule vs. Current Rule

What If H-1B Visa Holders Do Not Act Within 60 Days?

If no action is taken within the grace period, the worker and their dependents may be required to leave the United States within 60 days or by the end of their authorized validity period, whichever comes first. Departing the country does not prevent H-1B visa holders from looking for new employment opportunities. Once they secure a job offer, they can apply for a new H-1B visa and return to the United States to continue their work.

What Are the Employer Responsibilities for Laid-Off H-1B Visa Holders?

Employers have certain responsibilities towards laid-off H-1B workers. If H-1B or O workers need to leave the country, their employer (or petitioner for O workers) must pay for their transportation back to their home country. This ensures that the laid-off workers are not left stranded without any recourse.

Can H-1B Holders Apply for New Employers While Staying in the US?

Yes, H-1B nonimmigrants can start working for a new employer as soon as the new H-1B petition (Form I-129) is filed with the USCIS, without waiting for the petition to be approved. This allows for a smoother transition between jobs and helps workers maintain their authorized stay and employment status.

What Are the Implications of Filing a Non-Frivolous Application?

Filing a non-frivolous application to change status can “toll,” or stop, the accrual of unlawful presence until the application is adjudicated. This means that as long as the application is pending, the worker’s presence in the US is considered lawful, provided they did not work without authorization and maintained their status prior to the filing.

How Can Laid-Off H-1B Visa Holders Remain in the US?

Understanding these options is crucial for H-1B visa holders facing layoffs. The tech industry has witnessed substantial layoffs, with 237 tech companies laying off 58,499 employees in 2024 alone. This environment necessitates that H-1B workers know their rights and options to make informed decisions during these challenging times.

What Additional Resources Are Available for H-1B Visa Holders?

For more information on maintaining your status, filing petitions, and other essential guidelines, visit the official USCIS website . This site offers comprehensive resources and updates on immigration policies and procedures crucial for H-1B visa holders and other nonimmigrant workers.

The new guidelines from USCIS provide multiple avenues for H-1B visa holders who have been laid off to extend their stay in the United States. By taking timely actions such as filing for a change of nonimmigrant status, adjustment of status, or applying for an EAD, H-1B workers can navigate this challenging period more effectively. It’s essential to understand these options and act within the 60-day grace period to ensure you maintain your authorized stay in the country.

Learn Today:

Glossary of immigration terms.

• H-1B Visa : A non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, typically in fields requiring specialized knowledge such as IT, finance, engineering, and more.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) : The federal agency responsible for overseeing the immigration process in the United States, including the processing of visa applications, petitions for naturalization, and guidelines for nonimmigrant workers.

60-Day Grace Period : A specific timeframe granted to H-1B visa holders who have been laid off to either find new employment and have a petition filed on their behalf or take other actions like changing their immigration status, before they must leave the United States.

Adjustment of Status : The process by which an eligible individual, already present in the United States, applies to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) without having to return to their home country for visa processing.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) : A document issued by USCIS that provides temporary authorization for certain noncitizens to work in the United States. It is often applied for by individuals who have pending immigration applications that allow them to legally work while their case is adjudicated.

These definitions help clarify key terms related to the options available for H-1B visa holders, especially in the context of being laid off and the actions they can take to maintain their status in the U.S.

This Article In A Nutshell:

The recent layoffs at major companies have affected H-1B visa holders. USCIS guidelines offer options like changing status or applying for an EAD to extend stay post-termination. Acting within 60 days is crucial, ensuring continuity in legal status. Understanding and utilizing these choices is vital for navigating this challenging time. — By VisaVerge.com

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Retirement Visas: Everything International Retirees Need to Know

Fact checked by Vikki Velasquez Reviewed by Katie Miller

What Is a Retirement Visa?

A retirement visa is a special type of visa issued by some nations that allows people with adequate financial resources to live in a specific foreign country for an extended period of time. Americans considering retiring outside of the United States will need to understand the income, health, and age requirements of their destination.

Key Takeaways

• Retirement visas are a type of visa that allows individuals to retire in a foreign country.
• The requirements for obtaining a retirement visa vary from country to country but typically involve maintaining a certain threshold of income or assets.
• Some countries also have age restrictions.
• A major benefit of retirement visas is that they are good for a much longer period than regular tourist visas.
• Some retirement visas last for life, while others need to be renewed periodically.

How Retirement Visas Work

A visa is a government permit allowing foreigners to enter a particular country and remain there for a specified period of time. A retirement visa is a type of visa that allows people to enter a country and, if they wish, spend their retirement years there.

Countries that offer retirement visas of one form or another include Costa Rica, Ecuador, Indonesia, Ireland, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, the Philippines, Portugal, Spain, and Thailand.

Retirement visas are generally good for at least 12 months, after which they can be renewed if the person still qualifies. In some countries, foreign retirees can also apply for permanent residency and obtain citizenship after they have lived there for a certain number of years.

Retirement Visa Requirements

Retirement visas go by different names in different countries, each of which maintains its own rules. In some countries, an individual must be over a certain age to qualify for a retirement visa. Others may have no specific age requirement but stipulate that the person be retired and have retirement or pension income.

All set a minimum income requirement, and some require that applicants deposit funds in a local bank. In many instances, retirement visa holders are not allowed to work in the host country unless they are able to obtain a separate work permit. The visa holder may also be required to purchase health insurance that is valid in that country. ( Medicare pays for healthcare outside the U.S. only in rare instances, for instance.)

Deciding to retire and travel isn’t something to take lightly. Consider every angle, such as your health and finances, before you take next steps.

How to Get a Retirement Visa

The process for obtaining a retirement visa also varies by country. In most cases, application forms can be found on government websites, along with instructions on how to apply, including where to apply in person. Depending on the country, you may be able to apply either within the U.S. or at an immigration office in the host country. If you’re applying within the U.S., this will typically entail appearing, with necessary documents, at either the country’s embassy in Washington, D.C., or one of its consulates in a major city.

Every country requires at least a few documents, although some are more demanding than others. In virtually every case, applicants are expected to provide:

• A valid passport or other travel document
• Proof of income and/or assets

In some countries, they may be required to provide additional documents, such as:

• A birth certificate
• A marriage certificate (if applicable)
• A medical report attesting to the applicant’s good health
• Proof of vaccinations
• Evidence of medical insurance valid in that country
• Bank statements reflecting deposits in local accounts (if required)
• A house or apartment lease or other proof of a place to stay
• A police certificate showing the lack of a criminal record

Again, depending on the country, it can take several days to several months (or even years) to receive a retirement visa. Most countries seem to require at least a few weeks.

Retirement Visa Options in Different Countries

To show how rules may differ, here are more detailed overviews of retirement visas available in several countries that American retirees might be considering: Australia, Indonesia, Ireland, and Thailand. Before selecting a retirement destination outside the U.S., Americans should be sure that they understand all the details of the visa requirements of the country of destination.

Australia has some of the strictest immigration laws in the world and no longer offers retirement visas. In 2018, the government created what it calls a “retirement visa pathway,” which can lead to permanent residency for a small number of people who qualify. There are several ways to set yourself on this pathway, although it can be a years-long journey.

If you already held an Australian retirement visa (subclass 410) or investment retirement visa (subclass 405) on May 8, 2018, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. (Both of those visas have been discontinued.)

If you don’t meet that requirement, you can apply for either a parent visa (subclass 103) or the more expensive contributory parent visa (subclass 143), which may qualify you for permanent residency after a certain period. In either instance, you must be the parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or of a qualifying citizen of New Zealand, in addition to financial and other requirements.

The government cautions that processing times for parent (subclass 103) visas are significantly longer than those for contributory parent​ (subclass 143) visas, which also receive priority consideration. The government recently estimated waiting times of 15 years for contributory parent visas, and 40 years for regular parent visas.

The Republic of Indonesia offers a retired or senior citizen visa that is good for one year and may be extended for as many as five additional years. It doesn’t specify an age requirement but does require proof of sufficient financial resources in the form of a bank or pension fund statement. In addition, applicants must provide proof that they have health, life, and liability insurance .

After living in Indonesia for five consecutive years, visa holders can apply for permanent residency.

To retire to Ireland , U.S. citizens must apply for and be granted what’s known as Stamp 0. To be eligible, the applicant must either be “of independent means, fully financially self-sufficient” or sponsored by someone in Ireland who can provide their full support.

Stamp 0 applicants must also have private medical insurance. They “cannot receive any benefits or use publicly funded services, for example be treated at a public hospital.” In addition, they are not allowed to “work or engage in any business, trade or profession unless specified in a letter of permission from Immigration Service Delivery.”

Residents can apply for Irish citizenship once they have lived in the country for a certain period of time, typically five years but sometimes less.

The Kingdom of Thailand offers what is essentially its retirement visa—the Non-Immigrant “O-A” (long stay) visa—to eligible applicants ages 50 and older who don’t intend to work in the country. (Working is, in fact, prohibited on this visa.)

While the visa is only good for one year, visa holders can apply to extend it for additional one-year periods if they continue to meet the criteria, including income and asset requirements. In addition, visa holders must report to immigration officials every 90 days.

After living in Thailand for three years, visa holders can apply for permanent resident status.

However, it’s worth noting that Thailand limits how many people from any given country are eligible for residency each year, which is currently 100.

Retirement Visa Costs

Countries charge fees for retirement visas. This table shows some examples, as compiled by visadb.io, a website funded by grants from a number of countries:

Benefits and Limitations of a Retirement Visa

Retirement visas allow people to stay in a foreign country longer than typical tourist visas. This can be particularly useful to retirees, who may want to sample a country at various times of the year before deciding on moving there permanently. A retirement visa can also be a step toward qualifying for permanent resident status.

The visas do come with requirements, several of which are described above. In addition, retirees can be subject to taxes and may be required to contribute to the country’s healthcare and retirement systems.

Meanwhile, American citizens who retire to a foreign country are still required to file U.S. tax returns if their income exceeds a certain threshold, just as if they had remained in the States. Income from both U.S. and foreign sources is taxable, although foreign income up to a certain amount may be eligible for the foreign earned income exclusion .

The U.S. also has tax treaties with a number of countries, preventing citizens who are living abroad from being taxed twice on the same income.

Retirement visas differ from golden visas , which are a type of residency-by-investment program allowing people to gain residency by investing in the local economy.

Tips for a Successful Retirement Visa Application

To save time and avoid potential disappointment, anyone who wishes to obtain a retirement visa should follow a few basic steps:

• Read the visa requirements for the host country. These can be found online and in English, usually at the website of the country’s embassy or immigration office.
• Make a checklist of required documents and gather them.
• If your U.S. passport is close to expiring, renew it.
• If the country requires a medical examination, arrange a visit to your doctor.
• Fill out the retirement visa application, which is also typically available online.
• Make an appointment at the nearest embassy or consulate if the country requires an in-person application and allows you to apply from the U.S.

Note that some countries don’t allow applications from abroad but require that you show up in person at an immigration office in that country, typically after having obtained a tourist visa to get in. That makes it all the more important to obtain every necessary document before you go.

Who Can Apply for a Retirement Visa?

Anyone who meets a given country’s requirements can apply for a retirement visa if that country offers one. The requirements typically include a certain amount of income and assets. Some countries have specific age requirements, while many others don’t.

How Can I Apply for a Retirement Visa?

Most countries explain their retirement visa application on their websites, and many provide their applications online. When you’re ready to apply, however, you may have to do so in person.

Which Countries Allow a Retirement Visa?

At least 23 countries offer retirement visas of one kind or another, although they go by many different names. If you’re interested in a particular country, do an online search using its name plus “retirement visa.” A call to the country’s embassy is another option.

Which Countries Are the Easiest to Get a Retirement Visa for?

Generally speaking, countries in Latin America tend to have the lowest minimum income requirements, and they may also have the lowest costs of living . If your goal is to ultimately become a citizen of another country, note that some of them are known for their relatively easy citizenship requirements for retirees.

What If I Want to Work in Retirement, But Abroad?

A digital nomad visa is a document or program that gives someone the legal right to work remotely while residing away from their country of permanent residence. Some 58 regions offer an option to work abroad, including Anguilla, the Bahamas, Croatia, Germany, Norway, and Taiwan.

The Bottom Line

Many countries welcome foreign retirees, particularly those who will bring reliable incomes and substantial assets. For that reason, countries often offer visas that allow retirees to stay for an extended time and possibly forever. For retirees, obtaining a retirement visa can be a good way to explore and experience a country long enough to know whether it’s a place where you would like to settle down permanently.

Read the original article on Investopedia .