General
March 20, 2022

New visa option for Ukrainian passport holders

The office of Hon Alex Hawke, MP Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Aff​airs has released news confirming that a new visa type will become available for Ukrainian passport holders. This new visa, the subclass 786 visa, will allow Ukrainian visa holders to stay in Australia and also access Medicare while in Australia for up to 3 years. School-aged children are also able to continue their studies in Australia while on this visa. As the relevant legislation is still being drafted, this visa is not available for application yet. We are hopeful that we will see this new visa option in action soon.

Ukrainian applicants are currently being prioritised across all visa categories. Approximately 5000 temporary (and some permanent) visas have been granted to Ukrainians since 23 February 2022 and around 750 Ukrainians in this cohort of applicants have now arrived in Australia.

As of present, the quickest option for Ukrainian passport holders remains the subclass 600 visitor visa. If you are a Ukrainian passport holder and have family in Australia, you may wish to get in touch us to find out which option suits you best and when to apply.

Need help with deciding on which one is more suited to your circumstances? Have some burning questions about the 482 visa or 494 visa that are still unanswered? The content on this page does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Australian immigration doesn't have to be complex and we can help with your unique circumstances. To seek legal advice or information that is specific to your situation, please contact us.

Writer: Avelyn Chen

Founder of Kin Migration, registered migration agent and former Queensland lawyer, Avelyn lives and breathes advocacy. Fluent in Mandarin and Singlish, she's your go-to for family visas, skilled visas, and complex matters.

Having lived in Singapore for over a decade as a first-generation immigrant before calling Australia home in 2012, she truly understands what is like to try assimilating into a totally foreign environment. Outside of helping clients reunite with their families or achieve their Aussie dreams, you'll find her soaking in nature or planning her next overseas adventure. Always up for a good debate on immigration policies over a wintermelon tea.

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