Every year the Australian government opens its gates to new foreign nationals who would like to pursue professional and academic opportunities in the Land Down Under. Thousands of visa applications are submitted each year, with many of them getting accepted and some others – rejected.
While in many cases visa applications are rejected due to fraud or ineligibility, some do not get accepted due to innocent mistakes, misplaced documents, etc. Today we are going to present the 5 most common visa application mistakes and how to avoid them, to save yourself time and money:
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Apply for the right visa
This seems like a given but choosing the right visa application can become a complex matter. There are over 60 different visas available for work, travel, and residency purposes, including visa subclasses. Additionally, each of those visas and visa subclasses has their own requirements and restrictions. So, choosing the visa application can become much more complicated than it seems.
Lack of supporting documents
This is another mistake that may seem easier to avoid than it really is. The Australian government is extremely thorough when selecting visa applications; In addition to meeting the main requirement criteria for your visa application (such as providing a birth certificate, valid passport, health clearance), different visas may require you to supply other documents as well: proof of your relationship status, proof of personal assets, proof of qualifications and skills, employment records and more. Any details or documents out of place may call for application rejection.
Bad timing
Taking too long to meet your visa requirements and submitting the necessary documentation can affect the outcome of your visa application. Some flexibility is given at times – but this is not something you should count on. Also, your location when applying for your visa may affect the validity of your visa application. Be sure to prepare everything in a timely manner.
Be honest
One of the most common visa application requirements is meeting the character requirement. Don’t assume that not disclosing a drink and driving charge from 10 years ago will not affect your visa application – on the contrary. If you are not honest about who you are, you risk getting banned from entering Australia for many years.
Consider your immigration history
Many people tend to discard their immigration records because they are starting a brand-new visa application, as in “starting a new leaf”, perhaps even years after not applying for any visas. However, even if your visa application was rejected 15 years ago (and depending on the reasons for it), this can have implications in the long run. It’s important to consult an immigration specialist about the policies regarding your specific case.
Have any questions about your application process? Would like to find out your options for Australia immigration?
Contact our immigration team at UIS Australia today for a professional consultation and/or a visa eligibility assessment. Click below to get in touch.
