Visa Applicants Waiting for a Decision on Their Visa Application During COVID-19

1. Is the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the processing time for my application at the Department of Home Affairs or AAT?

There is no clear indication but the processing times of applications are being affected by the Department and AAT. Certain measures are being put in place by the Department and the Tribunal in light of the current Coronavirus situation which may affect the processing times.

Internally, at Agape Henry Crux, for some applications, the processing time is much quicker.

However, it's not always an advantage if your case is ready for decision. Some laws will cause your matter to be refused. For example, if you are a cook and your sponsor's business is now limited to take-way, your application may be refused.

Together, we may need to form strategies tailored to your situation.

Please contact us on +61 2 7200 2700 or info@ahclawyers.com if this applies to you.

2. I am being sponsored by a business that had to close down temporarily during COVID-19, would it affect my visa outcome?

Theoretically, yes it will. Unless your case is argued strategically, it may lead to a refusal.

We have a complex case unit that deals with situations like this and has been successful in securing favourable outcomes.

Please contact our team so that we are able to assess your case.

3. I am being sponsored by a business that closed down permanently because of COVID-19 – can I still get my visa?

No. We would be concern with time. If we have adequate time, we may be able to salvage your situation.

Allow us to properly assess your situation and offer the best strategy and solution for you.

If you are in this situation please contact our team as soon as possible as time is of the essence.

4. Can I still apply for Bridging Visa B (BVB) during this travel ban – so that I can go and visit my family in my home country, and come back?

The travel bans currently in place affect incoming and outgoing passengers. There may be concerns that your travel overseas is a public risk by way of exposing the Australian community to COVID-19. You can still continue to apply for a Bridging Visa B, however, there is a risk of the Bridging Visa B (BVB) being refused. The travel bans may also mean that you may not be able to return to Australia.

However, our firm has formulated a 2 stage process that increases the chance of success.

How can Agape Henry Crux Help You

Our firm has created a Special Coronavirus (COVID-19) Taskforce to help our clients battle through and find solutions during this Pandemic. Our team is equipped and trained to advise you on across a wide range of issues you may be encountering.

We speak fluent English, Korean, Burmese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Indonesian and Malay. If these aren’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.