Australian visa applications (or any visa application, for that matter) can be stressful and confusing. With confusing immigration policies that you need to adhere to, different forms to be filled out, documents to be submitted, and the people you have to talk to. This can be further complicated if you are a first-time applicant.

Here are some of the most common mistakes, which if you avoid, can make your application much more smooth and simple.

Not Knowing The Correct Visa To Apply For

“What exactly do I want to do In Australia?” is the first and most important thing you need to ask yourself before applying for a visa. Each visa entails different purposes and intentions, and you need to apply for one that suits your objective. Are you planning to work? Are you planning a holiday? Do you want to study? Do you have relatives or a partner who is willing to sponsor you? Do you want to live in the country permanently?

The visa type that you need will depend on your answers to these questions, so you need to be clear with your goals, as there are many various types of visas that you can apply for. Applying for the wrong type of visa may cost you a lot of time, money, and energy, if refused.

Distorting Information and/or Not Disclosing The Entire Truth

Sometimes when people apply for an Australian visa, they are tempted to withhold information that they believe will jeopardize their chances of approval. We highly recommend that you do not do this. It is never worth it. The Department of Immigration and Border Protection, having gone through and scrutinized millions of visa applications in the past and ongoing, have become very efficient in spotting inconsistencies, misrepresentations, and distortions in the applicants’ stories.

Whether it is something you made accidentally or deliberately, they will scrutinize any discrepancy in your application, and it will be grounds for refusal or visa cancellation.

If you are uncertain about your application and believe your information may lead to complications of your visa application, then seek advice from a registered migration agent to help you with your matter.

Not Divulging Your Criminal Record

It is mandatory to declare any prior criminal history you may have in your visa application. Not doing so may have a negative effect on your application.

The Australian government takes criminal records seriously, as their policies are designed to protect the Australian community. This does not mean that if you have one, you cannot get a visa. It simply means you have to declare it, so that your application can be properly assessed.

Again if you are unsure if your criminal history will have a negative effect on your application, seek professional advice from a registered migration agent.

Incomplete Documentation

Documents such as qualifications, employment references, marriage & birth certificates, etc. are pieces of a puzzle that will paint the entire picture of your visa application. As each visa type requires a different range of documents, it is important that you provide all the necessary documentation to support your claims in your visa application.

Immigration sometimes can refuse applications simply because applicants fail to provide all the necessary documents and evidence to support their application. So you have to be meticulous when preparing your application and also be sure that the type of documents you are providing are “relevant” to the requirements of the visa.

Interested in migrating to Australia and need professional assistance? Throw us a message in the enquiry section below or call us at 1300 619 977.

*Legal Disclaimer: Please note that this article is for general information only. Always seek professional legal advice in regards to your situation as every situation is different. Immigration legislation changes regularly and thus always, get up-to-date advice on your situation. Lodging a visa application is a judicial process and is based on the quality of legal advice and legal representation you receive. It is illegal for any Migration Agent or Lawyer to guarantee 100% of a positive result as it is a judicial process.