Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in leaders around the world condemning Vladimir Putin and his government and imposing sanctions against Russia. Australia is no different and while Prime Minister Scott Morrison has outlined the extent of the sanctions that will be imposed by Australia, he has also requested that the immigration minister accelerate the inclusion of Ukrainians to humanitarian visa applications to Australia.
Humanitarian visas are available to those subjected to substantial discrimination or human rights abuses in their home country. This support will not only be offered to those still in Ukraine but also extended to Ukrainians who have fled to Poland.
While Scott Morrison singled out humanitarian visas, Ukrainian citizens who have applied for other visas including skilled worker and student visas will be prioritised. Close family members in Australia will also be able to apply for visas on behalf of their family in the Ukraine. However, the prime minister has also made it clear, that while visas for Ukrainian citizens will be prioritised, visa applications could still be refused on security grounds.
With hundreds of thousands of people fleeing Ukraine, the number of Ukrainian citizens who wish to settle in Australia is still unknown. Given the low immigration numbers of the last two years, Scott Morrison has indicated that there is room to help many Ukrainians. State leaders are also onboard and ready to help and resettle Ukrainians who flee Ukraine and make it to Australia.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison also announced that Ukrainian nationals currently in Australia with visas expiring prior to 30 June 2022, will be granted an automatic visa extension for six months. The Department of Home Affairs will be contacting those with visas due to expire soon to arrange extensions.
Currently, there are 430 visa applications made by Ukrainians that have been prioritised. The question now is of those in Ukraine who have been granted a visa or are close to having a visa granted, how long will it take them to find safe passage to Australia?
If you have any questions about humanitarian visas or would like to learn more about any aspect of migration, contact the Visa Solutions team on 1800 828 008 or send us an email.
