All visa holders in Australia have been subject to the country's COVID-19[1] travel ban, apart from the exemptions currently in place for diplomats, maritime and air crew, and those simply transiting through the country for less than 72 hours.
But since the end of August, there has also been an exemption in place for holders of the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (BIIP) (subclass 188) Visa, which has had an "automatic exemption" on par with Australian citizens and permanent residents.
Prior to this date, Individual BIIP visa holders were still able to apply for an individual exemption of the travel restrictions.
The Australian Border Force (ABF), part of the Home Affairs superministry, was asked by the COVID-19 Select Committee why such visa holders were granted an exemption when others, such as holders of the Prospective Marriage (subclass 300) visa, have not been extended the same privilege.
"The Business Innovation and Investment Program targets migrants who have a demonstrated history of success or talent in innovation, investment, and business, and are able to make a significant contribution to the national innovation system and the Australian economy," the ABF said in response.
"The value of the BIIP program to Australia's economic recovery is clear through its focus on: Establishing and developing new and existing businesses, [commercialising] products and services and establishing high value businesses, and investment and job creation in the Australian economy."
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As at 14 September 2020, there were 10,591 BIIP visa holders outside of Australia. This figure includes both primary and secondary visa holders, the Department of Home Affairs added in its own response to questions on notice.
"The department has no information on how many of these visa holders