You may have recently received a letter from the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) regarding your ongoing visa application that has been referred to the Visa Applicant Character Consideration Unit (VACCU). You must be wondering what VACCU is and why your visa application is being processed there, so knowing the next steps in the process will be beneficial to manage expectations.

What is a VACCU Referral?

A VACCU referral occurs when DoHA requires more in-depth character assessment due to concerns related to the applicant’s background. This referral may arise from character history of the applicant or inconsistent information provided in the visa application.

What are the Possible Outcomes After a VACCU Referral?

If a VACCU assessment concludes and you meet the character requirements, your visa applications may be granted. However, these situations are uncommon but possible.
A visa application that has been referred to VACCU is due to the applicant’s significant criminal record and not meeting the Australian character requirements. This may result in a visa refusal due to Section 501, you will receive a letter from DoHA, and along with the regarding your rights to appeal or review the decision.
Below are some statistics on the number of visa refusals due to character (Section 501) from January 2024 to November 2024, according to the Freedom of Information (FOI) request in 2024 from DoHA:

Image from Freedom of Information (FOI) Disclosure logs 2022

Additionally, citizenship applications may also be refused after being referred to VACCU if the applicant doesn’t meet the character requirement.

What can I do Next for My Visa Application?

If you recently received the notification that your visa application has been referred to VACCU, your visa application may be delayed due to VACCU’s long processing time. Seek professional advice on your next best steps and explore possible options. These options may include reapplying if you meet the circumstances or waiting for a visa refusal and then lodging an appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART).

Although there is a high chance that your visa application may be refused, speak with an Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law at AHC Lawyers for tailored advice to understand the potential risks that may occur from VACCU. Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling. You can schedule an appointment with one of our immigration lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or email us at info@ahclawyers.com.

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.

Client Testimonials

….we call it Support Network

As navigating through the immigration law process may be difficult, our former clients have agreed to share their experiences through telephone chats, emails and meetings in person.

These are their stories…

Featured Character Issues Success Stories