Visa Types
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are visas currently being processed?
We are still accepting applications for Student visas. To speed up the process, please make sure to provide all the necessary information, such as an up-to-date Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and health and police checks. Without an active CoE, we cannot approve your visa. If you’ve updated your CoE, attach the new one to your application through ImmiAccount. Check that you’ve uploaded all relevant documents, including those for any dependents, by logging into your ImmiAccount. You can find the requirements for your application on the Document Checklist Tool at homeaffairs.gov.au, and instructions for uploading documents on the same website under Applying online in ImmiAccount.
2. Am I eligible for a refund of my Student Visa Application Charge?
If you arrived in Australia on a Student visa between 19 January 2022 and 19 March 2022, you may be eligible for a refund of your Visa Application Charge. This refund also applies to dependents who travelled with you during that period. You have until 31 December 2022 to apply for the refund. For more information, please visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
3. Are there currently any restrictions on the number of hours student visa holders can work in a fortnight?
International students with a valid visa can work more than 40 hours per fortnight during term time across all sectors of the economy. They can work immediately upon arrival in Australia and don’t need to wait until their course starts. You can find more information on the Department of Home Affairs website.
4. What should I do if I cannot complete an English test, biometrics or health examination within the specified time frame?
If you can’t complete an English test, biometrics, or health examination on time, contact the Department of Home Affairs and let them know what you’ve done so far. You should attach evidence of your attempts, such as a payment receipt or booking confirmation, through your ImmiAccount. Check the Home Affairs website for more details.
5. How long, before the potential commencement date, can I lodge a visa application?
You can apply for a student visa at any time, but it’s advisable to submit a complete application at least six weeks before your course starts.
6. My Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) has changed since I lodged my application. Do I need to let the Department of Home Affairs know?
If your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) has changed since you applied for your student visa, and you have a valid student visa, your education provider will provide the Department of Home Affairs with your new CoE. If you have an open student visa application, you can attach your new CoE to your application through ImmiAccount.
7. What is the latest with onshore student visa cancellations?
That’s correct. The Australian Government has resumed reviewing student visas where the visa holder no longer has a valid course enrolment, but they are taking into account the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on students’ studies. In cases where an education provider has approved a course deferral or delivered learning via online mode, students will not be considered in breach of condition 8202, which requires them to meet course requirements. It’s important to note that students should still keep their visa details up to date and comply with all other visa conditions.
8. What will happen to my visa if I donโt continue my study?
If your student visa has been cancelled, you may be able to apply for a different type of visa that aligns with your intentions in Australia. However, it is important to note that if your visa has been cancelled, it may impact your future immigration options in Australia. Therefore, it is recommended that you explore your visa options and seek professional advice as soon as possible. You can find information on visa options on the Department of Home Affairs website, or speak to a registered migration agent for advice.
9. If I intend to complete my qualification or keep studying, what do I need to do right now?
Note that if you want to change to a course at a lower level within the AQF or to a non-award course, you may be required to apply for a new student visa. This is because condition 8202 of the student visa rย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย equires students to maintain enrolment in a course at the same level or higher AQF level for which they obtained the visa. You can find more information on changing courses on the Department of Home Affairs website.
10. What if I donโt want to continue studying for the time being but would like to stay in Australia?
That’s correct. If a student does not intend to continue studying and wishes to remain in Australia, they should apply for an alternative visa that aligns with their intentions. It is important to apply for a new visa as soon as possible to avoid any adverse impacts on their future immigration options. The Department of Home Affairs website provides information on various visa options available to students.
11. What if I do not intend to continue studying nor do I wish to apply for a different visa type?
Numerous nations are opening up their lines, especially to returning occupants and outbound business flights are accessible from a few significant air terminals across Australia.
You may likewise wish to see whether there are any private or Government bringing home trips to your nation of origin. On the off chance that you would like further help to get back, if it’s not too much trouble, contact your consulate or department in Australia
12. Who can I contact if I have any questions about my visa?
On the off chance that you have any inquiries on any of the above data, you can contact the Branch of Home Issues by means of one of the choices recorded on their site: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/get in touch with us/phone
13. If I am re-applying, do I need to present updated supporting documents, including financial evidence?
Yes, that’s correct. It is important to check the Document Checklist Tool provided on the Department of Home Affairs website to determine if you need to provide financial evidence with your application. If it is required, you must provide it or risk having your application refused. The financial evidence is used to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your living and study expenses in Australia. The specific requirements for financial evidence vary depending on your individual circumstances, such as the length of your course and the location of your education provider. It is important to follow the guidelines and provide accurate and complete information to avoid any delays or complications with your visa application.
14. How many times can I re-apply and complete form 1545?
Just to clarify, Form 1545 is used for visa applicants who were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and were unable to complete their studies within their original visa period. The fee waiver applies to these applicants who are reapplying for a student visa using Form 1545. They are not required to pay the visa application fee again. However, they still need to meet all the visa requirements and provide all necessary documentation. The fee waiver is a temporary measure and will continue for as long as necessary.
15. What is required to help me complete form 1545?
To find out if you need to provide financial evidence with your visa application, you can use the Document Checklist Tool. This tool is available on the Department of Home Affairs website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/web-evidentiary-tool
16. Do I need to purchase OSHC even though I am starting my studies online?
It is a requirement for all student visa applicants to have appropriate health insurance when they are granted their visa and to maintain it throughout their stay in Australia. If there are any changes to their health insurance coverage after the visa is granted but before they arrive in Australia, it is the responsibility of the visa holder (or their education provider) and the health insurance provider to manage these changes.
17. How can agents/students process a visa withdrawal?
If you have applied for a visa online, it is possible to withdraw your visa application before the Department of Home Affairs makes a decision. You can find instructions on how to do this on the Department of Home Affairs’ website.
18. What if I am unvaccinated and want to study in Australia?
As of 6 July 2022, travel restrictions to Australia have been lifted, and unvaccinated travelers are now allowed to enter the country without needing a travel exemption.
19. Are students still returning to Australia under International Student Arrival Plans?
Previously, international students could only be granted a travel exemption to enter Australia if they were part of the International Student Arrivals Plan, with a few limited exceptions. However, as of now, international students can make their own separate travel arrangements to enter Australia, subject to meeting the visa requirements and other entry criteria. It is important to note that travelers will still need to comply with other entry requirements, including pre-departure testing, quarantine or isolation upon arrival, and other health and safety measures. It is advisable to check the Department of Home Affairs’ website for the latest updates and requirements before making any travel plans to Australia.
20. Can I leave Australia and return to my home country for a holiday?
Visa holders can now return to Australia after a holiday without needing an approved travel exemption. This means that temporary visa holders in Australia, including international students, can plan to visit their home country (if permitted by their home country’s border restrictions) and return to Australia to continue their studies. If you require assistance in returning home, you can contact your embassy or consulate in Australia for further guidance.
21. Do I need to tell the Australian Government if I elect to return to my home country?
You don’t have to let us know if you get back. Your visa will stay legitimate until you present another visa application, or your visa lapses
22. If I defer my studies due to COVID-19, will this impact my student visa?
If your school agrees to let you postpone your studies, your visa won’t be affected.
23. Do I need to purchase OSHC even though I am starting my studies online?
If you want a student visa for Australia, you need to have health insurance when you apply and keep it while you’re there. If you make changes to your health insurance after getting the visa but before arriving in Australia, that’s up to you (or your school) and your insurance company.
24. I will only be studying in Australia for a short period. What are my visa options?
There are different types of visas you can apply for in Australia depending on your purpose of visit.
For a Visitor Visa, you can study for a maximum of 3 months, and you need to show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay, as well as meeting health and character requirements.
For more aboutย Visitor Visasย on the Department of Home Affairs website.
For a Working Holiday Visa, you can study for a maximum of 4 months, and you need to be aged 18 to 30 years and have an eligible passport. Your main reason for visiting Australia should be for holiday, and you need to meet health and character requirements, as well as having enough money for your stay.
For more informationย Working Holiday Visa(Subclass 417)andย Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)ย on the Department of Home Affairs website.
For a Student Guardian Visa, it allows certain people to live with a student in Australia who is under 18 years of age. You can study for up to 3 months or study ELICOS for 20 hours per week for the duration of the visa. You need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement, have sufficient funds for airfares and living costs, and acceptable health insurance, as well as meeting health and character requirements.
For more informationย Student Guardian visasย on the Department of Home Affairs website.
25. How long will it take for my visa application to be finalised?
“See what is happening now.”ย global visa processing times.
I have been issued with a new passport after I applied for my visa, what do I need to do?
To update your passport details, check if there has been any change in your situation.
26. Can I extend the validity period of my visitor visa?
You can easily and conveniently apply for a new visitor visa online. Apply now!
27. How do I check my visa details?
VEVO enables visa holders, employers, education providers, and other organizations to verify visa information and conditions.
28. Do I have to submit my passport to the Australian High Commission?
Australian visas are electronic and can be verified online when checking in for your flight or upon arrival in Australia. This enables travelers to apply for visas while on the move.
I am unable to travel before the initial entry date expires. How can I extend the validity of the initial entry date?
If a visa holder is unable to enter Australia before the required entry date, the following rules apply:
- Permanent visa holders (including subclass 309 visa holders) can still enter Australia at a later date, as long as their visa remains valid, and they continue to meet all other requirements and visa conditions. If this is the case, they should submit a travel facilitation letter request form once they know their travel plans.
- Temporary visa holders (including subclass 300 visa holders) will need to apply for a new visa. In some specific circumstances, additional measures such as VAC refund, waiver, and visa extension may be available. You can find more information about these measures on the Department of Home Affairs COVID-19 and the border website.
29. How do I find the right visa to travel to Australia?
You can explore various Australian visa options that may suit your needs on the Department of Home Affairs website.
30. Can I apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) subclass 601?
Only certain types of passports are eligible to apply for an ETA. Non-citizen passports, certificates of identity, and other travel documents are not eligible for an ETA application.
I tried to apply for an ETA and received a message saying that the application cannot be assessed.ย What do I do now?
If your ETA application was unsuccessful, it means that your application requires further checks by the Australian government and cannot be approved online. Do not submit your application again, as it will result in the same outcome, and you will be charged again.
If you have any criminal convictions or do not meet the health requirements, you should apply for a Visitor visa (subclass 600) instead of an ETA. This is because if you arrive in Australia on an ETA with criminal convictions or health issues, you may be refused entry.
To start an online application, you need to create an ImmiAccount or log in to your existing account. If you don’t have any health or character concerns and were unsuccessful in obtaining an ETA online, including passport holders from Taiwan, please contact the Global Service Centre at +61 2 6196 0196. You will need to provide your ETA reference number and passport details to progress your application.
31. How long will my application take to process?
The Department of Home Affairs website posts global visa processing times for all visa and citizenship applications, which are updated monthly. These processing times provide an estimate of the time it takes to process applications.
Please note that processing times can be affected by various factors, such as changes in application volumes, seasonal peaks, complex cases, and incomplete applications.
32. How can I check the status of my application or visa?
To check the progress of an online application, you can log into your ImmiAccount. If you have submitted a paper application, you can also import it into ImmiAccount to view its progress.
In addition, Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) is a free online service that provides 24/7 access to visa entitlements and status information for visa holders, employers, and other registered organizations.
33. Can I get my visa application expedited?
The Department of Home Affairs does not offer an expedited visa service. All visa applications are assessed on their individual merits and against set legal requirements, and it is important to submit a complete application to avoid any delays.
It is strongly recommended that you do not book flights or make travel commitments until you have received your visa to travel to Australia. The Department of Home Affairs will not be responsible for any financial loss incurred by applicants if their visa application is delayed or unsuccessful. If applicants travel to the airport without a visa to enter Australia, they do so at their own risk and expense.
Please note that the embassy is unable to answer visa and citizenship enquiries.
34. What travel is allowed on an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) visa?
A Visitor (Business) subclass 600 visa that is granted in relation to an ABTC allows for travel for short-stay business purposes as well as short non-business travel, such as for holiday or visiting family and friends. For further information on ABTC travel, please visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
35. What travel document do I need to enter Australia?
It is mandatory for all individuals entering Australia to present a valid and approved travel document as proof of their identity and nationality. Australian visas are electronically linked to the valid passport that was used in the visa application process.
36. Can I travel on a passport with a different name to my airline ticket?
You should contact your airline to see if they will carry you. If so, you should then contact the immigration department of all countries to which you are travelling (except Australia) to ensure you will be able to fulfil their immigration/customs requirements.
37. How can I update my passport details with the Department?
Yes, you can easily update your details online through your ImmiAccount. You can log in to your ImmiAccount and select the option to update your personal details.
38. How can I request my international movement records?
Thank you for your question. As an AI language model, I don’t have the ability to send an email. However, I can provide you with the information you need.
To request international movement records for Australia, you need to complete Form 1359 Request for international movement records. Once completed, you can email the form to the address provided on the form. If you need records prior to 1981, you can contact the National Archives of Australia at www.naa.gov.au.
39. Do Australian citizens have to enter Australia on an Australian passport?
If you’re Australian, you need an Australian passport to come in and out of Australia, even if you use a foreign passport outside Australia. The Australian Passport Office can help you apply for an Australian passport.
40. What is the status of my visa application?
If you applied for a visa online, you can check the status of your application in ImmiAccount and also view the processing times for your visa application.
41. What visa can I apply for?
There are various visa options available that can meet your requirements, and you can gather more information about these options to determine which one is suitable for you.
42. What is the status of my citizenship application?
You can verify the processing time of your citizenship application by checking with the government agency responsible for processing citizenship applications. They should be able to provide you with an estimated processing time.
43. When will I be invited to a citizenship cermoney?
If you need to attend a citizenship ceremony, you’ll receive an invitation letter about a month before the ceremony. However, wait times for citizenship ceremonies may differ, so it’s best to check the most recent information on Citizenship processing times.
44. Can I apply for Australian citizenship?
To determine if you are eligible to become an Australian citizen and what steps you need to take, you can visit the website of the Department of Home Affairs. They have detailed information on citizenship eligibility requirements, the application process, and the supporting documents needed.
45. I would like to work in Australia, what do I need to do?
You can find information about work visa options on the Department of Home Affairs website. They have details on the different types of work visas available, such as temporary skilled visas, working holiday visas, and employer-sponsored visas.
46. What if I want to study in Australia?
The Department of Home Affairs website has information about student visa options for international students.
47. What if I want to migrate to Australia?
The Department of Home Affairs website provides information on various visa options for individuals who want to become permanent residents or join a partner or family member in Australia.
48. I have an occupation or skill that may be needed in Australia, how do I find out what is accepted?
If you’re looking for information on skilled work in Australia, including the skilled occupation list, you can find it on the Department of Home Affairs website. The skilled occupation list includes the occupations that are in high demand in Australia and are eligible for various skilled work visas.
49. I am a returning resident, what are my visa options?
If you’re a former Australian citizen or a current or former Australian permanent resident and you want to re-enter Australia, there may be visa options available to you.
50. What character requirements am I required to meet to enter Australia?
That’s correct. Everyone who wishes to enter Australia, including Australian citizens, must be assessed against the character requirements.
51. What health requirements am I required to meet to enter Australia?
That’s correct. Everyone who wishes to enter Australia must meet the health requirement.
52. Are there migration agents who can assist with my application?
That’s correct. If you’re looking for assistance with your visa application or immigration matters, you may want to consider using a registered migration agent. The Department of Home Affairs website provides information on how to find a registered migration agent and what to consider when choosing one. The website also outlines the benefits of using a registered migration agent, such as their knowledge of the immigration process and their ability to provide you with personalized advice and guidance.
53. What visa should I apply for?
That’s correct. The Department of Home Affairs website provides detailed information on visa options for Australia, including a ‘Find a visa’ tool that can help you identify the appropriate visa options based on your individual circumstances. The website also provides extensive information on how to apply for a visa, including the supporting documents that may be required as part of your application.
It’s important to note that the supporting documents required for a visa application may vary depending on your country of residence. To identify the specific requirements for your visa application, you should check the website of the Australian mission where you intend to lodge your application. The websites for the Australian missions in Belgrade, Berlin, and London provide information on visa requirements for those respective areas.
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54. How long will it take to process my application?
It’s important not to book travel or make commitments until you have a visa to enter Australia. You can check current visa processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website, but please note that processing times can vary depending on individual circumstances. To ensure your application is processed as quickly as possible, submit a complete application with all necessary supporting documents. You can track the status of your application online through your ImmiAccount, and if you’ve sent documents by email, you should receive an automated message confirming receipt. The Department doesn’t provide additional confirmation of receipt of documents or enquiries.
55. How do I upload documents to ImmiAccount?
It is important to ensure that you upload all the required documents and information to support your visa application. Incomplete applications or missing documents may result in delays or even refusal of the visa application.
Some common documents that may be required for a visa application include:
- Passport or travel document
- Proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL scores)
- Educational qualifications and transcripts
- Work experience and employment references
- Health and medical information
- Police clearance certificates
- Proof of funds to support yourself in Australia
- Evidence of your relationship if applying for a partner or family visa.
It is important to carefully read the document checklist for your visa subclass to ensure that you provide all required documents. If you are unsure about any requirements, it is recommended to consult a registered migration agent or contact the Department of Home Affairs for guidance.
56. I have technical problems with ImmiAccount. Who can I contact?
That’s correct. If you are experiencing technical issues with ImmiAccount, you should first check the Frequently Asked Questions and Quick Reference Guides available on the Departmentโs website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/applying-online-or-on-paper/online. If you still require technical support for account-related issues only, you can send a description of your issue and screenshots using the ImmiAccount technical support form at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/applying-online-or-on-paper/online/technical-help. Note that this service is only for technical support related to ImmiAccount and not for general enquiries.
57. How do I change my passport or address details?
Sure, here are the instructions on how to update passport, address, and email details in ImmiAccount:
It is important to keep your contact details up-to-date to ensure you receive any important communication related to your visa application or status.
58. Can I travel to Australia while waiting for a decision on my application?
It is important to note that visa requirements and conditions can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. It is always recommended to check the Department’s website or consult with a registered migration agent before making any travel arrangements to Australia. Additionally, it is important to ensure that all necessary documentation and requirements are met before submitting a visa application, as incomplete or incorrect applications may result in processing delays or visa refusals.
59. Do I need a return ticket to travel to Australia?
There is no necessity to have a return ticket when you show up in Australia. Anyway officials at the line should be fulfilled that guests, working occasion producer and brief occupants are planning to and possess the ability to leave Australia before their visa terminates. While not an obligatory necessity, you might wish to convey a duplicate of your bank proclamation to exhibit you have adequate assets to buy a carrier pass to withdraw Australia.
60. Should I provide originals or certified copies?
Correct, it is recommended to provide color copies of documents unless the Department specifically requests an original document. However, police clearances must be either original documents sent by mail or scanned color copies uploaded to ImmiAccount or sent by email. It is important to always check the document checklist for the specific visa subclass you are applying for to ensure you are providing the correct documents.
61. Should I provide translations?
Yes, that’s correct. Original documents in languages other than English must be accompanied by an English translation that meets the Department’s translation requirements. The translations should accurately reflect the information provided in the original document, and be in the same format as the original document (i.e., if the original document is in a multi-page format, the translation should also be in a multi-page format).