RACC Australia

The Australian Government has announced further measures to assist Afghan nationals evacuated to Australia following the Coalition withdrawal. Afghan evacuees will have their existing visas extended for 12 months ensuring continued access to the full range of Government support services as they undertake the process of transitioning onto Australian permanent visas. 

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3,000 humanitarian places for Afghanistan

The Australian Government announced that an initial 3,000 humanitarian places will be allocated to Afghan nationals within Australia’s 13,750 annual program.

• Australia will give first priority to Afghan nationals within the offshore humanitarian program and afford them visa processing priority in the year ahead.

• The 3,000 humanitarian places will focus on family members of Australians, persecuted minorities such as women and girls, children, the Hazara and other vulnerable groups.

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Visa options for Afghan nationals in Australia

• Afghan visa holders currently in Australia will not be asked to return to Afghanistan while their security is at risk.

• Afghan citizens currently in Australia on temporary visas will be supported by the Australian Government.

• Afghan citizens who meet the requirements for a humanitarian visa and wish to seek Australia’s assistance are strongly encouraged to make an application.

Following are the Visas you may be eligible for

• Protection Visa

• Temporary Protection Visa

• Safe Haven Enterprise Visa

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In addition, Afghan evacuees will now be able to transition to offshore permanent protection visas rather than onshore visas which would normally apply to applicants already in Australia. This legislative change provides for access to a broader range of Government support and settlement services.