The visa application process is quite involved. Not only does the application need to be filled out but you also need to prepare supporting documentation.
How long does it take to lodge a visa application?
There are a few factors which will determine how long it will take to lodge your visa application.
Your migration agent’s workload will determine how soon they can complete and lodge your application. If your migration agent is busy it will take longer for them to complete and lodge your application. While you might think it’s best to hire a migration agent that isn’t so busy, be wary about hiring someone that doesn’t have enough work. A migration agent who is busy has plenty of clients that are confident in their work.
Any visa application requires documentation to be provided by the applicant. The sooner these documents are received by the migration agent, the sooner they can get to work on your application. The documents need to be to the correct standard and any relevant translation of documents (international birth certificates etc) needs to be completed. Some migration agents may provide a translation service at an extra cost.
The applicant also needs to sign off on the application draft, ensuring all details are correct. Again, the sooner the migration agent gets this final sign off, the sooner they can lodge the application.
Once a visa is lodged there is a wait time on the visa decision. Each visa has an estimated wait time that is set by the Department of Home Affairs.
While processing your visa application, the Department of Home Affairs may make a request for information. Your migration agent will address these queries and advise you if they require anything further from you.
What should I do while I’m waiting?
There is nothing you can do while you are awaiting a decision on your visa. Your migration agent will keep on top of things and work to any deadlines that may be looming. Your migration agent will be fully aware of when you may become unlawful and will ensure that you remain legal throughout the process.
What happens once my visa is granted?
Once granted, a visa is not effective until any substantive visas you hold end. For example, if you are on a visitor visa and have applied for a work visa then once the visitor visa expires, the work visa will commence. If you require your new visa to be effective prior to your current visa expiring, an agent can arrange a voluntary visa cancellation so the new visa can take effect.
Visa applications are a collaborative effort between the applicant and the migration agent so it’s important that each party does their bit to make the process run smoothly and in a timely manner.
Travel Exemptions
While Australian borders are currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, travel exemptions may apply under the following circumstances:
– A traveller has a compassionate or compelling reason to visit Australia
– Overseas workers holding a Subclass 482 or 400 visa are required to undertake a job in Australia that cannot be filled by a local employee
Visa Solutions Australia has been successful in acquiring a broad range of exemptions, from critical workers to those needing to travel on compassionate grounds.
If you have any questions about the visa lodgement process or would like to speak to a registered migration agent, call Visa Solutions Australia on 1800 828 008.
