Congratulations on lodging your Australian visa application! While that is a huge step, the journey is not over yet. For many people, the waiting period after submission can bring a lot of questions and uncertainty. This guide will walk you through the key stages and potential requirements you can expect after sending your application to the Department of Home Affairs.
Understanding the next steps is important, no matter which visa you have applied for. Knowing what to expect, what documents might be requested, and how to check on your visa can make this phase feel much more manageable. The registered migration agents at Australian Migration Agents can offer professional guidance through every stage, helping you feel well-prepared for any communications from the government.
Your Post-Lodgement Journey: An Overview
Once you submit your visa application, it enters the official processing queue. The Department of Home Affairs will assign your case to an assessing officer who will carefully review all the information and evidence you have provided. This is an active period, not just a passive wait. Your ability to respond accurately and on time to any requests is essential for a positive result.
During this stage, you need to keep a close eye on your ImmiAccount for any messages from the Department. The complexity of this phase can change based on the specific visa subclass and your personal situation.
The Essential Role of Your ImmiAccount
Think of your ImmiAccount as the main communication hub between you and the Department of Home Affairs. Every important update will arrive here. This includes requests for more documents, notifications for medical appointments, and the final decision on your visa. It is your responsibility to make sure your contact information, especially your email and home address, is always up to date in the system.
Tip: Set a reminder in your calendar to check your ImmiAccount weekly so you never miss an important update from the Department.
Need a hand keeping track of everything? Australian Migration Agents can help manage communications for you.
Staying on Top of Your Application While You Wait
The waiting period can feel long, but there are important things you need to do to keep your application in good standing.
Keeping Your Details Updated
You are required to inform the Department about any significant changes in your life. This is a crucial obligation for every visa applicant.
- Change of Address or Passport: If you move or get a new passport, you must update these details immediately through your ImmiAccount. Failing to do so could mean you miss critical correspondence.
- Other Life Changes: For other major events, like getting married or separated, having a baby, or changing jobs, you must also notify the Department using the correct forms in ImmiAccount.
Maintaining a Lawful Visa Status in Australia
If you applied for your visa while in Australia, you were likely granted a Bridging Visa. This temporary visa allows you to stay in the country legally while your main application is being processed. It is vital to understand and follow the conditions of your Bridging Visa to ensure you always have a valid visa.
Common Requests from the Department of Home Affairs
Before a final decision is made, the assessing officer may need more information from you. These requests are sent via your ImmiAccount and have strict deadlines. Responding promptly is the best way to avoid delays.
Responding to Requests for Further Information (RFI)
An RFI is a standard request for more details to support the claims in your application. Receiving one does not mean there is a problem. Common things requested include:
- Updated bank statements to show you have sufficient funds.
- Recent payslips or letters from your employer.
- For partner visas, a personal statement about your relationship or more evidence like photos and joint bills.
Missing the deadline can cause major delays or even lead to a refusal.
Organising Your Health Checks
Most applicants need to pass a medical exam to meet Australia's health requirement, especially for permanent visas. After you lodge, you will find a Health Assessment Portal (HAP) ID in your ImmiAccount. You will use this ID to book an appointment with a panel physician approved by the government. In Australia, Bupa Medical Visa Services handles these appointments.
Submitting Police Clearance Certificates
To meet the character requirement, you need to provide police checks from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more over the last decade. This applies to everyone on your application aged 16 and over. For your time in Australia, you will need an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check.
Tip: Start gathering your police clearances early, as they can sometimes take several weeks to be issued from overseas authorities.
Arranging Your Biometrics Collection
Applicants from certain countries may need to provide biometrics, which includes fingerprints and a digital photo. If this is required for you, the Department will send a letter with instructions. You will need to make an appointment at an Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) or an Australian Biometric Collection Centre (ABCC).
Received a complex Request for Information? Don't stress. Chat with an experienced agent at Australian Migration Agents for help putting together a strong response.
Key Questions Answered: Your Post-Lodgement FAQ
Here are some quick answers to common questions we hear from clients after they have lodged.
- How do I check my application status? Log in to your ImmiAccount. The status will show as ‘Received’, ‘Initial Assessment’, or ‘Further Assessment’. It is best not to call the Department unless your application is taking longer than the standard processing time.
- Can I add more documents after I submit? Yes, you can upload new documents via the ‘Attach documents’ feature in ImmiAccount at any point before a decision is made.
- How will I get the final decision? You will receive a written notification of the decision in your ImmiAccount. If your visa is granted, this letter will include your visa grant number, expiry date, and conditions.
- What if my visa application is refused? The refusal letter will explain the reasons and detail your rights to a review. You may be able to appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), but there are strict deadlines, so seeking professional migration guidance quickly is essential.
- Can I travel to Australia while I wait? This depends on the visa you applied for. Some temporary visa holders can travel, but others must wait for the new visa to be granted. Always check your current visa conditions before booking flights.
Understanding Visa Processing Times
A very common question is, "How long will it take?" Processing times vary widely depending on the visa type, the number of applications the Department has received, and how complex your case is. The Department of Home Affairs publishes global processing time guides online, but these are only estimates. An application that is complete and well-supported with evidence is generally processed more quickly.
In very rare cases with compelling and compassionate reasons, you can ask for priority processing. However, this is not granted often.
How Our Migration Agents Can Guide You
The period after lodging your visa can be just as challenging as preparing it. Unexpected requests and tight deadlines can be stressful, and any mistakes could lead to delays or a refusal. Having professional guidance can provide valuable peace of mind.
At Australian Migration Agents, our registered migration agents have extensive expertise in managing the entire visa process. We can help keep your application moving by managing communications, advising on evidence, and navigating any complexities that arise. For friendly and clear support on your visa journey, get in touch with our team today.
.png)