Should I Apply for an Australian Tourist Visa Before the Pandemic Ends?
The current landscape of international travel is highly unpredictable due to the ongoing global pandemic. If you're considering traveling to Australia in the near future, applying for a tourist visa now might not be the best move. Here’s why.
Current Restrictions and Visa Applications
The straightforward answer is no. At the moment, no foreigners are allowed into Australia, and temporary visa applications are suspended. This means even if you apply, your visa application is unlikely to be processed or approved until restrictions are lifted.
Government Advice and Future Plans
According to the Australian Government, the situation remains fluid. While Australia has managed to keep coronavirus cases under control, it's still not advisable to assume that borders will remain open. As of the latest update, the government advises against being complacent regarding border restrictions. It's crucial to keep oneself updated as the situation is expected to become clearer by the end of September.
Even if the government declares that the borders will be open in January 2021, applying for a tourist visa in April 2020 wouldn't be a wise decision. Typically, tourist visas are processed relatively quickly, but given the current circumstances, it's impossible to predict the state of affairs by then. If the borders are still closed, you would be turned around and sent back home, making the visa application process a waste of time.
The Importance of Flexibility
The keyword in this situation is flexibility. Once the border closures are lifted, you can start planning your trip and looking into visa requirements. For now, it's best to be patient and wait for more definitive information. Australia will still be here, and the right time to plan your trip will come when the situation stabilizes.
Current Immigration Policies
It's worth noting that immigration is currently suspending offshore visa applications. If you do choose to apply, be prepared for a long wait before receiving a response. This adjustment is in place to protect public health and to ensure that processing resources are focused on essential and urgent applications.
The best advice is to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and to plan accordingly. Keep your options open and be prepared to adjust your travel plans as the situation evolves. The resilience of Australian tourism will ensure that when the time comes, you can still have the trip of a lifetime.