Visitor visa refused

Visitor visa refusals often relate to doubts about whether you will leave Australia or have enough funds.

What to do

• Check the reasons. They are usually about genuine temporary stay or funds.
• Review is not available for most visitor visa refusals. A new application with better evidence is common.
• Evidence of ties at home, such as a job, family and property, helps.

Documents to gather

• The refusal letter
• Evidence of funds
• Letter from your employer
• Evidence of ties to your home country
• Itinerary and invitation, if any

Common questions

Can I reapply after a visitor visa refusal?

Yes, but address the reasons for refusal. Applying again with the same evidence is unlikely to change the result.

Can I appeal a visitor visa refusal?

Review is not available in most cases. Your letter states your rights.

Registered agents near you

Enter your postcode to see the three closest registered migration agents on the public register. 4,846 agents are listed in Australia.

Other matters

A refusal letter explains why the delegate was not satisfied. It is not the end, but time limits are short.A cancellation can be a notice that cancellation is being considered, or a final decision. Which one you have changes what you can do.Section 501 lets the Minister or a delegate refuse or cancel a visa when a person does not pass the character test.A Protection visa is for people who fear serious harm if they return to their home country and who are in Australia.Student visa refusals often turn on genuine student requirements, financial capacity or English evidence.Skilled visa refusals often relate to skills assessments, points claims, English or nomination issues.A bridging visa lets you stay lawfully in Australia while another visa application or review is decided.Citizenship refusals commonly relate to residence requirements, identity or character.Employer-sponsored visas depend on both the employer and the worker meeting requirements.The Administrative Review Tribunal reviews many visa decisions. Time limits are strict.

General information, not legal or migration advice. Rules, fees and deadlines change and every case is different. Check your own letters and speak to a registered migration agent or Australian legal practitioner before you act. Visa Wizard is not affiliated with the Department of Home Affairs, the Administrative Review Tribunal or OMARA.