Frequently Asked Covid Questions

I’m an international student. If I believe I am exempt, how long until I can come to Australia?

Decisions to exempt international students are at the discretion of the Australian Border Force Commissioner and will be treated on a case-by-case basis, informed by advice from state and territory health and education agencies. In the first instance, you should discuss your options with us!

What are the border protection measures for COVID-19?

You cannot come to Australia at this time unless you are in an exempt category or you have been granted an individual exemption to the current travel restrictions. Unless arriving on a quarantine free flight from New Zealand, all travelers arriving in Australia, including Australian citizens, must quarantine for 14 days at a designated facility, such as a hotel in their port of arrival. International students should monitor the advice on the Department of Health and Department of Home Affairs websites.

When can all international students return to Australia?

Australia’s Framework for National Reopening makes clear however, that the Government supports the return of international students, when conditions allow. The Government is working closely with the states and territories to plan for the return of students to Australia in a way that protects the health of international students and Australians. International students are encouraged to contact e-COLINK in the first instance to express interest in participating in any program that the relevant state or territory may choose to bring forward to return international students to Australia.

Can I work more than 40 hours per fortnight?

Due to exceptional circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to ensure the supply of critical services, the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force will take a flexible approach to student visa holders working beyond their usual work limitations, but only in specified industries.

You can work more than 40 hours a fortnight if you are:

• Employed by an aged care Approved Provider or Commonwealth-funded aged care service provider with a RACS ID or a NAPS ID, before 8 September 2020;

• Employed by a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme provider; or

• Enrolled in a health care related course and you are supporting the health effort against COVID-19, as directed by health officials.

• You cannot work more than 40 hours if you are employed in a supermarket. This measure ended on 1 May 2020.

Where can I get further information on study options and assistance?

In the first instance, we recommend contacting us for assistance and information regarding your studies. In addition, you may refer to the Department of Education, Skills and Employment’s website www.dese.gov.au/covid-19 for regularly updated factsheets.

You may also wish to visit Study Australia’s website www.studyinaustralia.gov.au for more information on support services available to international students.