One of the most challenging parts of the visa application process is the waiting. Once you submit all the necessary documents and information, all you can do is sit back and hope it goes through. The length of time you must wait depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Some are processed within a relatively short time, even under two weeks. Others can take months or more.
Factors that Effect Visa Processing Times
There are a number of factors that can influence how long your visa takes to work through the process. Some things you have control over and others you do not. The factors you can control include:
- Incomplete Visa Applications
There may be reasons for submitting an incomplete application. Just know that if you do, it will likely add time to the process. If you are in the country, you could risk deportation if your current visa expires, so it is best to submit applications as completely and accurately as possible.
- Confusing Documentation
Any information or forms you must submit for your visa should be provided in a clear, organised format. The easier it is to read, the less time it will take to go over. For example, if you submit a wedding invitation as proof of a relationship, make sure it’s purpose is clearly marked.
- Not Responding Quickly
You may be contacted with follow up questions or requests for additional information. Make sure you respond as fast as possible to keep the application moving. Any delays on your end will prolong the process.
Average Visa Processing Times in Australia
So how long should you expect to wait when submitting a visa application?
- Temporary Work Visas
A majority of temporary work visas are processed in under 43 days. Some may be shorter, like subclass 400 and 403 visas.
- Temporary Activity Visas
Activity visas are intended for sporting, religious, or research purposes and typically take up to 76 days for approval, with some types processed in under 32 days.
- Work and Holiday Visas
A work and holiday visa can take up to 19 days to process, with 75% of applications processed within 7 days.
- Temporary Graduate Visas
Graduate work visas are typically processed in less than 6 months. If you are applying for a Post-Study Work Visa, then it can take less than 90 days.
- Student Visas
Student visas vary dramatically depending on the type you apply for. Foreign Affairs or Defence Sector student visas take around 35 days or less while Student Guardian and Postgraduate Research Sector visas can take as long as 4 months.
- Visitor Visas
Visitor visas range in processing time to as little as 3 days to as much as 58 days. Sponsored family visas take the longest while Approved Destination Status Visas are the fastest.
- Family Visas
Family visas, which include Partner, Child, and Orphan Relative subclasses, range from an average of 9 months to 26 months to process.
To discuss the estimated approval time for your visa application, contact our team here at Emergico or take our free online assessment. Our registered migration agents can help you avoid problems and missteps, so your visa application is reviewed faster.
