Partner visa holders forced to come to Australia during the pandemic

Australian couples where one partner is from overseas are pleading for more time to enter Australia before their $7000-plus partner visas are canceled, given the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic this year.

The federal government announced last week's special accommodations for visitors, working holiday makers, seasonal workers, temporary visa workers and prospective marriage visa holders.

The new provisions mean visa holders in these categories can seek a refund of visa application charges if they have been unable to enter Australia during the pandemic, and in some cases apply for an extension.

However, officially people with a 309/100 migrant partner visa must still abide by the first-entry date on their visa. This visa costs $7160, requires proof of marriage or an established de facto relationship, and applicants must be outside the country when they apply. They do not need a separate travel exemption to enter Australia.
 

Source: The sydney morning Herald