EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

Migration Regulations 1994

PAYMENT OF VISA APPLICATION CHARGES AND FEES IN FOREIGN CURRENCIES

(PARAGRAPH 5.36(1A)(a))

1. This Instrument is made under paragraph 5.36(1A)(a) of the Migration Regulations 1994 (‘the Regulations’).  This Instrument revokes Instrument number IMMI 10/020 signed on
   1 June 2010 and Amendment Instrument number IMMI 10/020 signed on 16 June 2010.

2.                  Paragraph 5.36(1A)(a) of the Regulations provides that the amount in a foreign currency that corresponds to the amount in Australian dollars for payment of a fee or a visa application charge may be specified by Gazette Notice.

3.                  The purpose of the Instrument is to specify amounts in foreign currencies that should be paid in respect of a visa application charge when applying for a visa to enter Australia.

4.                  The Instrument operates to specify amounts of foreign currencies which correspond to the amounts payable for fees in Australian dollars.

5. Consultation was not necessary as, under section 18(1) of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003, the Instrument is of a minor or machinery nature and does not substantially alter existing arrangements.

6.                   A Preliminary Assessment for this proposed change has been sent to the Office of Best Practice Regulation, and they have advised that a Regulatory Impact Statement is not required because there is little or no compliance cost on business and no other impacts on business and individuals or on the economy or on competition. (Reference Number: 12042).

7. The Instrument, IMMI 10/065, commences on 1 January 2011.