How to obtain a visa to enter Australia

Step 1

Make sure your passport is in order.

You should have a valid passport with has at least 12 months before expiry.

Make sure you have other current documents that can validate your identity (e.g., birth certificate, national identity card, drivers’ licence etc.)

Step 2

What do you want to do in Australia?

Have a look on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Remember there are many visa options to enter and stay in Australia. A few examples are:

Visiting (family or friends or vacation)

Studying and Training

Working and Skilled

Family and Partner

Step 3

Decide which type of visa is most appropriate for you.

At this stage, you might want to seek some professional help to guide you as to which visa best suits your desires and circumstances.

Step 4

Start gathering your evidence and documentation.

Depending on the type of visa you apply for, evidence and proof you need to provide to the Department may vary. But without proper documentation your visa application may be refused.

Step 5

Health check

For a lot of entrants to Australia you will need to declare that you are in good health. And in some circumstances, you will need to show proof that you carry health insurance.

The Department may ask you to have a medical examination after you have lodged your visa application.

Step 6

Character check

You must declare to the Department that you are of good character. For most visa applications you will be required to supply a national police check from your home country.

Step 7

Biometrics

For citizens from certain countries the Department will require you to provide biometrics. This means collecting your fingerprints and a photo of your face. There are Australian Biometric Collection Centres in most countries.

Step 8

Lodging your visa application

Visa applications are made online to the Department of Home Affairs through ImmiAccount. Anyone can apply to set up an ImmiAccount. All immigration professionals operate ImmiAccounts and can apply for visas on your behalf.

Step 9

Visa granted!

Processing times vary for different visas.

It can be an anxious time waiting on the outcome of your visa application. We recommend using the services of a professional migration lawyer to ensure you have the best chance of success and a shorter processing time.

Overview of the process

Applying for a visa to Australia can be perplexing, time-consuming, and expensive. If you are unsure whether you have the right documents or evidence, you could be jeopardising your application.

If your visa application is refused, then you will have wasted all that time and effort.  You do not get a refund of the application fee!

At Culleton Lawyers, we can guide you through the process and provide you with expert advice.

Contact us today on 42437855, or email reception@culletonlawyers.com.au