Get your visa application right the first time

Update from Department of Home Affairs as follows: 

We are currently processing a high number of visa applications.

Your visa application can take longer if it contains incorrect information or documents are missing. It may even be refused.

There are things you can do to make sure that when you submit your visa application it is decision ready. This will help us process your application faster.

When preparing your application for a visa to Australia, remember to:

• provide all the required information and documents

• allow plenty of time to collect the necessary documents and information. It can take longer than you expect to get copies of official documents such as birth and marriage certificates, police checks, medical reports and translations of documents

• double check you have included everything and all information is correct before you submit your application. Make sure your name is spelt as it appears in your passport, including your middle name, and that it has not been auto-corrected by your device

• submit your application well ahead of when you want to travel. We suggest you book your flight after your visa has been granted.

Submitting multiple visa applications for the same type of visa can slow the decision process.

For visitor visas, submit one application per person, including children.

For student visas, dependents can be included in their parent or guardians application.

Source