How to follow up visa application in Australia?

Staying in the Loop: Effectively Following Up on Your Australian Visa Application

Applying for an Australian visa can be a nerve-wracking process. Once you’ve submitted your application and gathered all the necessary documentation, the waiting game begins. While patience is key, it’s natural to want to know where your application stands. Fortunately, the Australian Department of Home Affairs provides resources that allow you to stay informed and actively monitor your visa application’s progress.

This article outlines the best ways to follow up on your Australian visa application, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the process and avoid unnecessary anxiety.

The Primary Tool: Your ImmiAccount

If you submitted your Australian visa application online, your primary resource for tracking its progress is your ImmiAccount. This personalized online portal allows you to manage your application and receive updates directly from the Department of Home Affairs.

Here’s how to utilize your ImmiAccount for visa tracking:

1. Log In: Access your ImmiAccount using the credentials you created during the application process. Remember your username and password – you’ll need them throughout the processing period.

2. Navigate to User Applications Summary: Once logged in, locate the “User applications summary” section. This area provides a comprehensive overview of all applications associated with your account.

3. Check the Status Indicator: Within the “User applications summary,” you’ll find a designated status indicator for your visa application. This indicator provides a general overview of where your application is in the process. Common status indicators include:

   • Received: Your application has been received and is awaiting assessment.
   • In Progress: Your application is currently being assessed.
   • Further Assessment: The Department may require additional information or documentation from you.
   • Finalised: A decision has been made on your application.

Understanding the Limitations and Expectations

While the ImmiAccount provides a valuable snapshot of your application’s progress, it’s important to manage your expectations. The status indicator offers a general overview but typically doesn’t provide specific details about each step of the assessment process. Avoid contacting the Department of Home Affairs for updates unless your application is significantly beyond the advertised processing times. This helps ensure they can focus on processing applications efficiently.

Beyond the ImmiAccount: Exploring Additional Resources

While your ImmiAccount is the primary source of information, other resources can be helpful:

• Department of Home Affairs Website: The official Department of Home Affairs website is a treasure trove of information, including:
  • Visa Processing Times: Check the estimated processing times for your specific visa subclass. This will give you a realistic timeframe to expect a decision.
  • FAQ Section: Review the Frequently Asked Questions section for answers to common inquiries about the visa application process.
  • Contact Information: If you have a genuine need to contact the Department, the website provides the appropriate contact details.
• Visa Application Centers (VACs): If you applied through a VAC, they may be able to provide limited information on the application process. However, keep in mind that they don’t directly influence the decision-making process.

Important Considerations:

• Keep Your Contact Information Updated: Ensure your contact details (email address, phone number, and postal address) are up-to-date in your ImmiAccount. The Department of Home Affairs will use this information to communicate with you.
• Be Patient: Visa processing times can vary depending on the visa subclass, the complexity of your application, and the current volume of applications being processed.
• Avoid Providing Falsified Information: Providing false or misleading information on your visa application can result in its refusal.
• Consider Professional Assistance: If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure about any aspect of the visa application process, consider seeking assistance from a registered migration agent.

By actively monitoring your ImmiAccount, utilizing the resources provided by the Department of Home Affairs, and understanding the expected timelines, you can effectively follow up on your Australian visa application and stay informed throughout the process. Remember that patience and clear communication are key to a smooth and successful outcome.