Migration Amendment (Common Sense for All Visas) 2021

# Migration Amendment (Common Sense for All Visas) Bill 2021 ## What it does This bill temporarily relaxes visa location rules that normally require applicants to be either inside or outside Australia when applying. From the bill's commencement until 31 December 2021, some people can apply for visas from the "wrong" location without being rejected outright. ## Why it matters This is a practical fix for people stuck in visa limbo during COVID-19 lockdowns and border closures. Without this change, someone locked out of Australia or unable to leave could have their visa application automatically rejected based purely on where they physically are. ## Key details - **Timing:** The temporary flexibility only applies to visas granted between now and 31 December 2021 — it's a time-limited measure, not permanent. - **Location flexibility:** Normally some visas require you to be in Australia, others require you to be outside. This bill lets people apply from the "wrong" side temporarily, regardless of when they lodged their application. - **One exception:** If you're in "immigration clearance" (basically, you've been detained pending deportation), you still can't apply for certain visas under these relaxed rules — the bill doesn't override that safety net.

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament