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Check Visa Status Australia: Track your application
iVisa
9 min read
Updated on Jan 17, 2024

Waiting for your Australian visa application to be processed can feel like a pause in your travel dreams. Discover how to efficiently check your application status online and get one step closer to your Australian journey.

In this article, we'll walk you through the process of tracking your Australian visa application. Staying informed about your application's progress is more than just a waiting game; it prepares you for the next exciting steps. We aim to simplify this process for you. Let's get started on bringing you closer to your Australian journey.

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Requirements for your Australia Visa check

To check the status of your Australian visa, you'll typically need the following:

  • Personal identification: This includes your full name, date of birth, and nationality as per your passport.

  • Passport or travel document: The passport or travel document you used when applying for your visa. Ensure it's the same, as visa records are often linked to passport numbers.

  • Reference number: This can be the Transaction Reference Number (TRN), provided when you submit your visa application online, or your visa grant number, given to you when your visa is approved.

Official Australian government channels for visa status verification

The Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) platform is the primary channel provided by the Australian Government for visa holders to check their visa status online. It lets you view your current visa details, including type, validity period, and conditions. VEVO can be accessed through its website or by using the myVEVO app, available on both the Apple iTunes and Google Play stores.

Alternatively, you can visit or contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate, especially if you're overseas. You'll need to provide your personal identification and possibly other details related to your visa application.

Contacting the Department of Home Affairs via phone is also an option. However, this might involve longer wait times.

Online platforms for visa status checks

Apart from using the VEVO platform, these are the other ways you can check your visa status online:

  • iVisa: If you applied for your Australian visa through our website or iVisa app, we provide an easy way to track the progress and current status of your visa. We'll ensure that you're always up to date with your Australian visa status, providing peace of mind and the ability to plan your stay or travel in Australia confidently.

  • ImmiAccount ImmiAccount is a user-friendly portal where you can manage all your Australia visa-related tasks. It's designed to make your life easier by allowing you to apply for visas and citizenship, check the status of your application, and upload all the necessary documents for your visa application.

Step-by-step guide: Checking your Australian visa status

Here's how you can check the status of your Australian visa using VEVO and ImmiAccount.

Using VEVO

  1. Access VEVO online. If it's your first time using it, you may need to create an account.

  2. Ensure you have all the necessary information, like your passport or ImmiCard details. You'll also need your Transaction Reference Number (TRN) or Visa Grant Number.

  3. After logging into VEVO, enter your travel document details and one of the reference numbers mentioned above.

  4. Once logged in, you can check your visa status and other relevant details.

Using ImmiAccount

  1. Log in to your ImmiAccount. If you don't have one, you'll need to create an account first.

  2. Navigate to your applications, where you can view the status of your visa application if you applied online.

  3. Here, you can also find your visa grant number or TRN, especially if you applied for your visa through this account.

  4. ImmiAccount allows you to manage various aspects of your application, including uploading documents and updating personal details.

Types of Australian Visa statuses

When you're keeping an eye on your Australian visa application, understanding the different types of statuses that can appear is key. Each status gives you a clear picture of where your application stands in the processing pipeline. Let's dive into what they mean:

  • Received: Right after you submit your application, this will likely be the first status you see. It simply means your application has been successfully received and is ready for the next processing stages.

  • In Process: This status means your application is under review. The authorities are reviewing your submitted documents and information, making sure everything is in order before deciding.

  • Finalized: This status pops up when a decision has been made on your application. It could mean approval or rejection, so you'll need to check further details to know the outcome.

  • Approved: This is the green light you've been waiting for. It means your application has met all the criteria, and you're all set for your Australian adventure. Once your visa is approved, you can start finalizing your travel plans.

  • Rejected: Facing a rejection can be disappointing. This status indicates that your application didn't meet the requirements or lacked adequate supporting documents. It's important to review the reasons for rejection carefully, as you might be able to reapply or provide additional information.

Common visa status issues

When applying for an Australian visa or checking your visa status, you may encounter a range of issues. Understanding how to address these problems can save you a lot of stress.

  1. Incomplete information or documentation: One of the most common reasons for visa application delays or rejections is incomplete or missing information on the application. Double-check your application before submitting it. Make sure you have provided all necessary documents and filled every required field accurately. Keep a checklist of required documents handy.

  2. Delays in processing: Sometimes, visa processing takes longer than expected due to high volumes of applications or other administrative reasons. Plan your application well in advance of your intended travel date. Regularly check your visa status online and be patient. If the delay seems unusually long, contact the Australian Department of Home Affairs for an update.

  3. Technical difficulties with online services: Technical glitches can occur when using online platforms like ImmiAccount or VEVO. Try accessing the service using a different browser or device. Clear your browser's cache and cookies before trying again. If the problem persists, contact the technical support team for assistance.

  4. Incorrect information provided: Providing incorrect details, whether unintentionally or otherwise, can lead to application delays or rejections. Review your application multiple times for accuracy. Ensure that all information matches the details in your official documents. If you realize you've made an error after submitting, contact the Department of Home Affairs immediately to correct it.

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Understanding Australian visa types

Australia offers a wide range of visas tailored to different travel needs. Here's a breakdown of the main categories:

  • Visitor Visas: For tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. This includes the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600), Electronic Travel Authority (Subclass 601), and eVisitor (Subclass 651).

  • Family Visas: These allow Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor family members. Key types include Partner Visa (Subclasses 820 and 801), Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300), Parent Visa (Subclass 103), and Contributory Parent Visa (Subclasses 173 and 143).

  • Student Visas: For those who want to study in Australia, the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the most common.

  • Temporary Work Visas: These permit working in Australia temporarily under specific conditions. Examples are the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482), Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417), and Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462).

  • Skilled Migration Visas: For individuals with specific skills, qualifications, or work experience in demand in Australia. This includes the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491).

Legal insights: Understanding the rights and responsibilities of visa holders in Australia

When planning a trip to Australia or considering a longer stay, it's crucial to understand the rights and responsibilities that come with your visa. Knowing these details can ensure your time in Australia is enjoyable and compliant with local laws, whether you're there to work, study, or enjoy the incredible landscapes and cities.

For work-related visa holders

  • Equal workplace rights: You're entitled to the same workplace rights as Australian citizens, including fair pay and safe working conditions.

  • Protection from discrimination: The Fair Work Act protects you against workplace discrimination.

  • Support from the Fair Work Ombudsman: If you encounter issues with workplace entitlements, you can seek help from the Fair Work Ombudsman.

  • Visa protection: Only the Department of Home Affairs can alter your visa status, not your employer.

For non-work visa holders

  • No unlawful work: If your visa doesn't allow work, you shouldn't engage in any employment.

  • Financial self-sufficiency: Ensure adequate funds to support your stay.

  • Health insurance: Some visas require maintaining health insurance.

General responsibilities for all visa holders

  • Compliance with visa conditions: Always adhere to the specific conditions of your visa.

  • Reporting changes: Inform the Department of Home Affairs about changes in your situation, like a new address or passport details.

  • Adhering to local, state, and federal laws: Abide by all Australian laws during your stay.

  • Leaving before visa expiry: Leave Australia before your visa expires unless you legally extend your stay.

The importance of regular visa status checks

When traveling or living abroad, keeping an eye on your visa status is more than just a formality; it's vital to ensuring a smooth and trouble-free experience. Here's why regular checks on the status of your visa are important:

  1. Avoid overstaying: One of the most critical reasons to keep tabs on your visa status is to prevent overstaying. Knowing your visa's expiration date helps you plan your departure or next steps within the allowed timeframe, avoiding penalties or future travel restrictions.

  2. Stay informed of changes: Immigration policies and regulations can change, sometimes with little notice. Regularly checking your visa status informs you of any changes that might affect your stay.

  3. Legal compliance: Keeping track of your visa status ensures that you remain legally compliant with the immigration laws of the country you're in. This is crucial for avoiding legal complications that could arise from unintentional violations.

  4. Plan ahead: Regular checks allow you to plan ahead, especially if you need to extend your visa, change its type, or take any other action regarding your immigration status. This is particularly important for those on long-term visas, such as student or work visas.

  5. Maintain accurate records: By regularly checking your visa status, you can maintain accurate and up-to-date records of your immigration history. This can be beneficial for future visa applications or even permanent residency applications.

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Dealing with visa expiry, renewals, and overstays

Navigating Australian visa issues such as expiry, renewal, and overstays can be daunting. Here's a guide on what to do in each of these scenarios:

Visa expiry

If you know your visa is about to expire, and you wish to stay in Australia, it's crucial to explore your options before you become unlawful. You have more visa pathways available if you're on a valid visa.

If less than 28 days have passed since your visa expired, you might be eligible for other visa types without facing a 3-year exclusion period. This period bars you from applying for any temporary Australian visa for 3 years after leaving the country. If you have a “no further stay condition” on your last visa, it must be waived by the Department of Home Affairs before you can lodge a new visa application.

If your visa has expired, you can be granted a Bridging Visa E (BVE). This temporary and short-term visa allows you to stay lawful while making arrangements to leave Australia or resolving an immigration matter. However, the BVE comes with restrictions, like being unable to travel and limited work rights.

Visa renewal

Australian visas cannot be extended beyond their expiration date. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa. Applying for this new visa before your current one expires is essential to staying lawful and enjoying your extended stay in Australia.

Visa overstays

If you're caught overstaying your visa, you may face detention and deportation. Overstaying can also lead to being barred from re-entering Australia for at least 3 years and incurring costs associated with your removal.

If you've overstayed and wish to leave, you won't be detained at the airport, but you may need to speak with immigration officers. It's advisable to leave voluntarily if you can't obtain a new visa.

Need more information?

If you have any questions about how to check the Australian visa status, please contact our customer service team who are ready to assist you, or email us at [email protected].

Disclaimer
  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/

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