What Does It Mean And How to Appoint an Authorised Recipient for My Visa Application?

What is an authorised recipient?  

An authorised recipient is a person you appoint to receive documents on your behalf regarding your visa matter. This individual can help ensure that you stay informed about your application. 

 

Who can be an authorised recipient? 

You can appoint anyone as your authorised recipient, but they cannot provide immigration assistance unless they are: 

  • A registered migration agent (RMA) 

  • A legal practitioner

  • An exempt person is defined under immigration regulations 

What happens when I appoint an authorised recipient? 

When you appoint an authorised recipient, the following occurs: 

  • All written communications about your visa application will be sent to them. 

  • Any documents sent to your authorised recipient are considered received by you, even if you do not see them. 

This means that if you have appointed someone to receive correspondence, you will not receive copies of those documents. 

What types of documents will be sent to my authorised recipient? 

The documents sent to your authorised recipient may include: 

It is important to note that some of these documents may contain sensitive information, such as details about your health and character and due dates to respond to the Department of Home Affairs

 

How do I appoint an authorised recipient? 

To appoint an authorised recipient, you have two options: 

  1. In ImmiAccount: Nominate the person in the appropriate section of your visa application. 

  2. Using Form 956A: Complete the "Appointment or Withdrawal of an Authorised Recipient" form (301KB PDF) and submit it with your application. 

Can I appoint more than one authorised recipient at a time? 

No, you can only appoint one authorised recipient at a time. If you need to change or withdraw your current authorised recipient, you will need to follow specific procedures. 

How do I end or change my authorised recipient? 

To end the appointment of your authorised recipient, you must use Form 956A. This form allows you to withdraw the appointment officially. 

If you wish to change your current authorised recipient to someone else, complete Form 956A to specify the new individual who will receive correspondence on your behalf. 

Will I receive copies of documents sent to my authorised recipient? 

In most circumstances, you will not receive copies of the documents sent to your authorised recipient. This includes important communications regarding your visa application. 

What should I consider when appointing an authorised recipient? 

When selecting an authorised recipient, consider the following: 

  • Ensure they are trustworthy and reliable, as they will handle sensitive information. 

  • Ensure they understand the responsibilities involved in receiving communications about your visa matter. 

What if I need translation or interpreting services? 

You can use the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) if you do not speak English and require assistance. You can access TIS National by calling 131 450. They provide services for anyone who needs an interpreter for visa matters or other communications with the Department. 

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?

If you are seeking professional assistance in any immigration-related matters, no matter how simple or how complex the matter is, at Agape Henry Crux, our lawyers can assist you with their creative strategies and tailored advice. You can book a Migration Planning Session with one of our immigration lawyers or Accredited Specialist(s) in Immigration Law to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310-5230 or emailing us to book a time at info@ahclawyers.com.

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

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.