By Anne Nguyen
Visa processing time after s56 request can be a concern for many applicants.
You’ve been issued a “section 56’ request from the Department of Home Affairs (“the Department”) and you’ve responded to their request with all the additional information they required and within the timeframe (usually 28 days).
So, what’s next? How long until you wait for a decision?
Now that the response is in the Department’s court, the Department will assess, scrutinise and consider the information that you’ve given.
With around 120 or so Australian visa types available, processing times can vary greatly from hours to months and in some cases, decades from when you’ve submitted your information.
A range of factors can impact on the time it takes to make a decision such as (including but not limited to):
- The type of visa,
- Whether responded completely or partially,
- The case officer’s case load,
- Your circumstances including any changes,
- The simplicity versus complexity of your response,
- Submissions and supporting documents,
- Whether the case officer needs to complete internal checks or cross-references with other sections of the Department,
- Whether there are additional follow ups required for example, you’ve completed your medical examination and the examining doctors may require a few days to release the results to the Department or whether they require further medical examination from you,
- Whether it is a federal election year (or leading up to it).
Unfortunately, the Department does not give a global visa processing time for post-section 56 requests. Whilst you are waiting for a decision, it is important to continue to be visa compliant and to keep the communication channels open by checking your email inbox (including spam mail) regularly and keeping your postal address up to date.
Remember, just because the Department gives you 28 days to respond, they are not themselves bound by any such response time to finalise the application! The uncertainty of visa processing time after s56 request can be challenging, but staying informed and prepared is key. Need expert advice on your visa application? Contact Longton Migration today for a free consultation with our experienced immigration lawyers.
*Disclaimer: This is intended as general information only and not to be construed as legal advice. The above information is subject to changes over time. You should always seek professional advice before taking any course of action.*