The Department of Home Affairs website provides information regarding visa eligibility and processes. However, one of the most frequently asked questions is how long are the visa processing times.
Unfortunately, there is no short answer on this matter as the processing times can be modified over time, affected by the current situation or stated on a case-by-case basis.
We have created this short guide to help you understand better the visa processing times and how to make sure you are not increasing your waiting period:
Visa processing times always vary
Most visa applications take between 1 and 12 months to be processed and finalised, however some visas could take up to 3 years due to their complexity and certain requirements to be met by the applicants.
Likewise, the government has determined a priority order to process all Family Visas, as well as the migration program provides a limit on the visas that can be granted each year.
COVID-19 affected the visa processing times
As any other aspect of our lives, the visa processing times were affected by COVID-19.
Most applications have taken longer than the average processing times from previous years due to the suspension of medical exams and travel bans, delaying the applicants’ possibility to complete the visa requirements and forcing the DoHA to refrain from making a decision on many visa applications – most notoriously Student Visas – in line with the international travelling restrictions.
Don’t add more time to your wait – Tips
- Submit your application once you have ALL the supporting documentation, certificates and checks.
- Respond to any additional information request made by the DoHA, as soon as possible.
- Check the capping and queueing, if any, established for the visa you are intending to apply for
- Make sure you are being well advised and consult a registered agent to submit a clear and complete visa application.
At Borderless Migration we make sure to keep you informed on any changes on the visa application process and we are happy to solve any questions you might have during your visa application process.
Contact us and let us advise you in these complex times.
