Founder / Director
AAT Appeal for Visa Matters
The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) is an independent tribunal in Australia that conducts reviews of decisions made by government agencies, including decisions related to visas and immigration matters. If you are dissatisfied with a decision made by the Department of Home Affairs regarding your visa application or visa status, you may have the option to appeal the decision to the AAT. Here is an overview of the AAT appeal process for immigration matters:
Key points about the AAT Appeal for Visa Matters:
- Eligibility for AAT Review: Not all decisions are eligible for AAT review. The decision notice you receive from the Department of Home Affairs will provide information about whether you have a right to apply for AAT review and the timeframe within which you must lodge the application.
- Lodging an AAT Application: To appeal a decision to the AAT, you need to lodge an application within the specified timeframe (usually 21 or 70 days, depending on the type of decision). The application form is available on the AAT’s website.
- Application Fee: There is usually an application fee associated with lodging an AAT application. In some cases, you may be eligible for a fee waiver or reduction based on your financial circumstances.
- Providing Documents and Evidence: Along with your application, you will need to provide documents and evidence that support your case and explain why you believe the decision was incorrect. This may include written statements, statutory declarations, medical reports, and other relevant information.
- AAT Case Officer Review: After lodging your application, a case officer at the AAT will be assigned to review your case. They will consider the information you provided and may request additional documents or information if needed.
- Pre-hearing Conference (Optional): In some cases, the AAT may offer a pre-hearing conference to discuss the issues and attempt to reach an agreement between you and the Department of Home Affairs without the need for a formal hearing.
- Hearing (if required): If your case cannot be resolved through a pre-hearing conference or if a hearing is requested, the AAT will schedule a hearing. During the hearing, you, and your representative (if applicable) will have the opportunity to present your case and address any questions from the AAT member.
- AAT Decision: After considering all the information and evidence, the AAT will decide on your case. The decision may affirm, vary, or set aside the original decision made by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Outcome: If the AAT’s decision is in your favour, it could result in the grant of the visa or the reversal of a visa cancellation. If the AAT decision is not in your favour, you may need to explore other options, such as seeking legal advice or considering alternative pathways.
