IMMI 09/115

EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

Migration Regulations 1994

CLASS OF PERSONS

(REGULATION 1218(3)(d))

1. This Instrument is made under paragraph 1218(3)(d) of the Migration Regulations 1994 (“the Regulations”).

2.                  Paragraph 1218(3)(d) of the Regulations provides that internet applications for Tourist visas may be made if, and only if, the applicant is in a class of persons specified in a Gazette Notice for the purposes of paragraph 1218(3)(d).

3.                  The purpose of the Instrument is to allow the Minister to specify which classes of people may apply for a Tourist visa over the internet.

4.                  The Instrument operates by specifying classes of persons who are eligible to apply for Tourist visas over the internet. These specified classes of persons are defined either as holders of specified passports, or as holders of specified passports who apply through approved travel agencies. Persons who do not fall into a class specified in the Instrument will not have lawful access to internet lodgement facilities. In particular, this instrument extends access to internet applications to citizens of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

  5. Consultation was undertaken before the instrument was made with the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to acquire passport information to allow implementation of internet lodgement of tourist visas.

6. The Instrument, IMMI 09/115, commences on 9 November 2009.