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How long does a protection visa take to process?

By
Sharing Li
Sharing Li
Australian Migration Agent
June 25, 2024
6
minute read

The processing time for a protection visa application is uncertain. Applications for the Protection visa (subclass 866) are experiencing expedited processing times, both during the initial application phase and the subsequent review stage

  • The majority of new applications for the Permanent Protection visa are now being processed within an average timeframe of 145 days, marking a significant acceleration compared to previous years as of April 2024.
  • Similarly, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal is also streamlining its processes, resulting in faster adjudication of appeals. These efficiency improvements translate to quicker final review determinations.

Engage Australia's protection and consider the complementary protection criteria when preparing your permanent protection visa application. Providing all supporting documents and meeting the eligibility criteria can expedite the process. It's crucial to understand the complex process involved and ensure that your application form is complete. Additionally, having a valid visa and complying with visa requirements are essential. Seek advice from a migration agent to navigate this very complex process effectively.

Factors influencing processing time

Accurate submission

Incomplete or inaccurate protection visa applications are a leading cause of delays. To avoid setbacks, ensure that all supporting documents are provided accurately and comprehensively. Engaging an Australian Migration Agent can streamline the process, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary back-and-forth for clarification.

Complete documentary requirements

Ensuring all required documents are included is essential for efficient processing. Omitting necessary paperwork can lead to delays, requiring immigration authorities to request further information. It's crucial to meticulously compile all required documents, adhering to specified criteria. An Australian Migration Agent can provide guidance on which documents are pertinent.

Response time  

During the processing of your protection visa application, immigration authorities may require additional information or clarification. It's crucial to promptly respond to any requests for information to avoid delays. Failure to respond in a timely manner could result in the application being placed on hold, thus extending the overall protection visa processing time.

Information verification

Ensuring the accuracy of information provided in the application is standard procedure. While this is essential to maintain the application's integrity, applicants can expedite the process by supplying precise and readily verifiable information. Any disparities or inconsistencies could prolong the verification process.

Tips for expedited processing

Now that we've pinpointed the potential hurdles, here are some practical suggestions to assist applicants in navigating the protection visa application process more effectively.

Engage an Australian Migration Agent

One of the most effective measures applicants can take to expedite the processing of their protection visa is to enlist the assistance of an Australian Migration Agent. Maneuvering through the complexities of immigration law can be intimidating, and legal professionals specializing in migration matters are well-acquainted with the nuances of the application process. A migration lawyer can offer invaluable counsel on drafting the application, ensuring inclusion of all requisite documents, and promptly addressing any requests for supplementary information. Their expertise not only reduces the likelihood of common errors but also streamlines the entire procedure. Moreover, an Australian Migration Agent can serve as an intermediary between the applicant and immigration authorities, fostering transparent communication and tackling any issues that may arise during the application process. This approach can significantly alleviate concerns regarding protection visa processing time, engage Australia's protection obligations, and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

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Create a comprehensive document checklist

Compile a comprehensive checklist comprising all necessary documents for a protection visa and meticulously verify the inclusion of each item in your application. Adopting this proactive strategy minimizes the risk of delays attributable to absent paperwork. Ensure you understand the protection visa interview questions.

Promptly respond

Remain attentive to any requests for supplementary information from immigration authorities. Respond promptly and furnish the requested details to preempt unwarranted processing delays.

Provide accurate factual information

In the event of any obstacles or expected delays in supplying requested information, it's crucial to maintain open communication with immigration authorities, including the Australian Passport Office. Transparency with entities like the Australian government can promote comprehension and, occasionally, hasten the resolution of any concerns

Although the processing time for protection visas, such as the Protection Visa Subclass 866, may fluctuate, applicants wield significant influence in expediting the process. By submitting precise applications, encompassing all necessary documents, promptly addressing requests, and aiding in the verification process, applicants can boost the likelihood of a rapid and favorable outcome. Stay abreast of updates related to Australian citizenship and laws, take proactive steps, and approach the protection visa application with assurance.

What is the success rate of a protection visa in Australia?

The processing duration for protection visas varies considerably based on specific factors. Applicants who lack legal representation experience a considerably low success rate at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), with only 4% achieving success independently, without the aid of a lawyer or migration agent. Conversely, this success rate notably rises to 28% when applicants are represented by legal professionals.

Moreover, the outcome of protection visa applications may also be impacted by the applicant's country of origin. For example, individuals from nations like Libya, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, stateless individuals, Iraq, and Iran have experienced greater success rates in AAT reviews. This indicates that applicants from these countries are more prone to having their claims accepted.

Conversely, applicants from certain countries, including Ireland, Tonga, Taiwan, South Korea, and Malaysia, have lower success rates or even no success upon review. For example, the success rate for Malaysian applicants is only 2%, contributing to the overall low success rate for protection visa applicants.

Furthermore, the success of protection visa applications can also depend on the specific member assigned to review the case at the AAT. Some members are more likely to give positive decisions, while others may be more inclined to give negative decisions.

Overall, legal representation appears to be the most influential factor in the success of protection visa applications, with applicants significantly more likely to succeed with representation compared to those without representation. Additionally, the country of origin of the applicant and the specific member assigned to review the case can also impact the success rate of protection visa applications.

How can Australian Migration Agents help?

In the dynamic landscape of Australian immigration, securing a Protection visa can seem like a daunting task, given the numerous complexities involved. However, entrusting your case to experienced Migration Agents can greatly alleviate these challenges. These professionals not only offer expert guidance throughout the intricate application process but also provide flexible payment options tailored to your individual circumstances. By offering transparent and reasonable fees, Migration Agents ensure that pursuing your Protection visa remains financially viable. Moreover, their commitment to clear fixed-fee structures grants you certainty regarding the overall costs of your visa application.

Whether navigating the intricacies of meeting Australia's protection obligations or fulfilling specific criteria, these agents are dedicated to streamlining the process and improving your chances of success.

Australian Migration Agents

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