Australians on US working visas might have to travel home every two years to get them renewed. Photo: Mille Florel.
Donald Trump is making it increasingly difficult for Australians living and working in the United States to renew visas and extend their stays.
There are thousands of Aussies living in the US on what are known as E-3 visas, which allow them to work in the country for two years.
The E-3 visa emerged from the 2005 US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, which President Trump seems increasingly intent on disregarding.
Exclusive to Australian citizens, the visas were granted to those who had university degrees and a US job offer relating to their qualifications.
Until now, renewing those visas was relatively easy, with Australians able to visit countries geographically close to the US – such as the United Kingdom or Barbados – to get another two-year stamp in their passports.
But under new rules introduced by a snap decision of the Trump administration, it looks like Australians wanting their E-3 visas renewed will have to do so at a US consulate in their home country.
That means travelling back to Australia every two years if they want to keep their jobs and keep living in the US.
“Effective immediately, the Department of State has updated its instructions for all nonimmigrant visa applicants scheduling visa interview appointments,” the new directive issued 6 September states.
“Applicants for U.S. nonimmigrant visas (NIV) should schedule their visa interview appointments at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence.
“Nationals of countries where the U.S. government is not conducting routine nonimmigrant visa operations must apply at the designated embassy or consulate, unless their residence is elsewhere …
“Applicants must be able to demonstrate residence in the country where they are applying, if the place of application is based on their residency.
“Applicants who schedule nonimmigrant interviews at a U.S. embassy or consulate outside of their country of nationality or residence might find that it will be more difficult to qualify for the visa.”
The new conditions also apply to the visa holders’ partners and children under 21 years of age.
While the visas had to be renewed every two years, there was no limit to how many times they could be renewed.
That looks set to change also, with limits imposed on the duration the visa holders can stay in the US, and tougher conditions for renewals.
There are reports of Australians already being denied visa extensions under the new regime.
President Trump has suggested the US visas system was being exploited by migrant residents hopping over a border to renew visas.
It is the latest development from an administration cracking down on immigration; and follows announced plans to tighten rules and durations for students, cultural exchange visitors, and the media.
New tool for young Aussies headed overseas
In separate travel news, the Australian Government has launched a new information resource designed for young tourists going abroad.
Called the Partying Safely Hub, the guide is accessed through the Smart Traveller website and has information for young Australians, their parents and teachers about the risks of drinks being spiked in overseas clubs and bars.
Its creation is the result of the fatal methanol poisoning in Laos last year of Australian teenagers Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones.
The resource provides useful information on alcohol and drug safety, and talks specifically about methanol poisoning and drink spiking.
“Many young Australians love to hit the clubs, festivals and poolside bars when travelling,” the site states.
“But it’s important for them to know how to keep themselves and their mates safe while still having the time of their lives.
“This hub has resources to help you start a conversation with young travellers about how to party safely overseas.”
