There have been 277 applications for status granted as of February 9 under the “sleeping provision” 20(B) of the Immigration and Protection Act, Parliament has heard.

The figure was given by Sylvan Richards, the Junior Minister of Home Affairs, in response to parliamentary questions from Walter Roban, the Shadow Minister of Home Affairs.

There had been 804 applications received under the provision by the end of 2015. It came into effect after a landmark ruling in May 2014 by Ian Kawaley, the Chief Justice.

Mr Richards also revealed the number of work permits granted in 2015: 3,793 one- to two-year permits, 1,206 three- to five-year permits, and zero permits of above five years.